Are you a parent raising a young person right now? Has your child shared with you that they identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community?
Studies show that you play a pivotal role during your kiddo’s youth especially for those that are part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Being supportive and compassionate can be the difference between them growing their self-confidence or heading down a dark path of sadness and despair.
Our young people can be savvy when it comes to finding ways to receive support, but many feel it is easier and more beneficial to them when that support is given from parents/loved ones.
As a therapist that works with young girls, teen girls, and our young LGBTQ+ members here at Empowered Connections, I would like to offer 3 tips to help you navigate this stressful time.
3 Tips for Parents of LGBTQ+ people in 2023
1. Let them know they are loved and feel supported. Studies have shown that LGBTQ youth who are supported by their families grow up to be happier and healthier adults.
2. Encourage dialogue. The best way to do this is to build trust and start small talk. Don’t be afraid to be curious about your child’s life. The more you communicate with your child, the more comfortable they’ll feel. (In the car is the best time to chat with your child as they’re “trapped” LOL)
3. Change certain thought processes that you’ve been engaged in. Instead of saying “It’s just a phase,” embrace their evolving sense of self. Rather than thinking there is no “cure,” express that it’s not something that needs to be fixed. And lastly, don’t look for blame, instead, celebrate your child and all that they are. Look at their strengths and applaud them!
I recommend for you to be their biggest cheerleader! Educating yourself as a parent will also strengthen your support to your child by being able to have a better understanding of what they’re going through and gives you an idea what your child needs support with. Creating a safe space for your child to be themselves and have open conversations with you, will allow room to help and support one another.
If you need extra support or guidance as a parent of an LGBTQ+ youth or if your child needs guidance and a safe space, we’ve got you! You can self-schedule anytime by clicking here or sending our administrative goddess an email to hello@empoweredconnections.net. We look forward to being here for you!
Cynthia is seeing girls ages 8 to 18, adult women & LGBTQ+ members both in person and virtually for residents of the state of Maryland and Washington DC
If you’d like to book with Cynthia, you can reach her by emailing her at amanda@empoweredconnections.net, call her directly at 301-690-0779 ext. 717, or self-schedule an appointment now by clicking here.
