Supporting gender diverse teens

Gender diversity refers to people whose gender identity and sex assigned at birth do not correspond based on society's expectations. Gender diverse youth can include transgender girls/women, boys/men as well as youth who are gender fluid, genderqueer, non-binary, a-gender, etc. 

Evidence suggests that neurodivergent people, are more likely to  be gender diverse and have lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, or asexual sexual orientations compared to neurotypical people. One possible reason is that neurodivergent people tend to be less aware of, or less susceptible to, societal pressures and gender norms; therefore, they can express their gender identity or sexual orientation without concerns of being judged or fitting into certain roles. Being gender diverse is not a symptom of being neurodivergent. It is a legitimate identity and not a phase. 

1. Use your child's chosen name and pronouns
2. Connect with other parents and family members of transgender and non-binary youth to find support and community
3. Educate yourself and other family members on the best ways to affirm and support your child and put these behaviors into practice
4. Advocate for your child at school
5. Love your child. They are still the same person they've always been

I can help your child explore their identity and manage feelings of dysphoria and uncertainty. We can also work on symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Do you need help navigating your child's gender identity? Your child's well-being depends on your acceptance of their gender-diversity. Extensive research shows that gender diverse youth with supportive parents report "higher life satisfaction, higher self-esteem, [and] better mental health including less depression and fewer suicide attempts" than those without strong parental bonds. If you're having trouble processing your child's transition, reach out for your own personal support. 

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/category/gender-identity/

https://www.lgbtmap.org/release-2019-advancing-acceptance

https://www.lgbtmap.org/advancing-acceptance-for-parents

https://www.lgbtmap.org/advancing-transgender-equality-snapshot

https://www.lgbtmap.org/talking-about-transgender-students-school-facilities-access