Supporting Trans Youth: The Role of Parents and Psychologists in Affirming Care

In recent years, awareness of the unique challenges faced by transgender youth has grown. Despite increasing visibility and support, LGBTQ+ youth—and particularly trans youth—continue to face disproportionately high rates of mental health struggles, including an elevated risk of suicide. According to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ young people who receive high levels of family support report attempting suicide at less than half the rate of those who feel low or moderate levels of support (The Trevor Project, n.d.). This data underscores the crucial role that family support, affirming environments, and therapeutic guidance play in protecting trans youth’s well-being. Both parents and psychologists are instrumental in cultivating this environment, with therapists often serving as a bridge to help families understand, accept, and affirm their child’s identity. 

The Importance of a Supportive Environment 

A supportive environment is essential for all children, but it is particularly critical for trans youth who may already feel vulnerable or marginalized. Transgender youth who feel accepted at home and in their communities are more likely to experience positive mental health outcomes. Research shows that acceptance reduces feelings of isolation, bolsters self-esteem, and fosters resilience against the discrimination that trans youth may face in school or social settings. Without affirming care, many trans youth encounter barriers to emotional development, and they often suffer from anxiety, depression, or feelings of hopelessness (Russell et al., 2018). Thus, a supportive environment can be life-saving, helping these young people feel secure, validated, and empowered to navigate their identity with confidence. 

Parents, however, may struggle to understand what it means to provide affirming care as they adjust to their child’s gender identity journey. This adjustment period is entirely normal, as some parents may need time to learn, ask questions, and find ways to show their support. In this process, therapists are valuable allies. Working with a therapist can help parents learn strategies to affirm their child and create a nurturing space for open communication and empathy. 

Affirming Care in Therapy: Guiding Parents Toward Support 

Affirming care in therapy involves understanding and supporting an individual’s gender identity without judgment or bias. For parents, therapy can provide guidance on ways to adapt their parenting style to better support their trans child. One of the most impactful steps parents can take is to use their child’s chosen name and pronouns. Small gestures, like using the correct pronouns, send a powerful message of acceptance. Studies have shown that the use of a young person’s correct name and pronoun is linked to lower levels of suicidal ideation and attempts (Russell et al., 2018). These small changes in language can have profound effects on a trans youth’s sense of belonging and safety within their family. 

Therapists also help parents and families adopt additional affirming behaviors. For instance, a psychologist can educate parents about the importance of inclusive language (beyond the use of pronouns), create supportive routines, and work with them on effective communication strategies. Beyond individual therapy, family therapy can be an effective way to ensure that everyone within the family unit has an opportunity to ask questions and express their feelings in a healthy way, making space for each person’s journey toward understanding and support. 

Early Psychological Intervention for Improved Mental Health Outcomes 

Early psychological intervention is often key in fostering resilience and well-being among trans youth. Engaging with therapy early can provide a safe space for youth to discuss their experiences, build coping skills, and gain the confidence to navigate their gender identity in a potentially challenging world. By beginning therapy early, trans youth can learn strategies for managing stress, reducing potential high-risk behaviors, recognizing their worth, and handling difficult conversations, whether at school or in social settings. These skills contribute to better long-term mental health outcomes, equipping young people with the tools they need to thrive. 

When parents engage in therapy alongside their child, they also benefit from the opportunity to understand the unique needs of trans youth better. Therapy offers parents insight into the emotional landscape their child may be experiencing, helping them move beyond potential misconceptions or fears. For many parents, these therapeutic sessions serve as an eye-opener to the fact that their support and acceptance are far more impactful than they may have previously understood. 

The Path to Affirming Care 

Supportive environments, both at home and within therapeutic settings, help trans youth feel seen, accepted, and loved. With guidance from a licensed psychologist, parents can better navigate the challenges and rewards of affirming care, providing the support their child needs during a critical period. 

Sandra Boodman, LCSW of Orange County Health Psychologists specializes in gender affirming care and therapeutic support for the LGBTQ+ community. “Providing gender affirming care as a therapist is both a privilege and a responsibility. If working with teens/youth, it’s critical for therapists to obtain knowledge and education on becoming an ally and providing supportive and encouraging care,” notes Boodman. 

The path to affirming care may seem overwhelming for parents, but small, compassionate steps—like using correct pronouns and seeking understanding—can lead to a nurturing environment where trans youth are empowered to thrive. As The Trevor Project underscores, supportive families significantly lower the risk of suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, including trans youth. Together, psychologists and families can foster affirming spaces that contribute to the well-being, growth, and resilience of trans youth. 

References 

Russell, S. T., Pollitt, A. M., Li, G., & Grossman, A. H. (2018). Chosen name use is linked to reduced depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, and suicidal behavior among transgender youth. Journal of Adolescent Health, 63(4), 503-505. 

The Trevor Project. (n.d.). Facts about LGBTQ youth suicide. Retrieved from https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/