Transitional LGBTQ+ Youth

Alex* was 18 and alone in the world…

Who says that 18 is some magic number where you know what to do? Many young people like Alex are disconnected from family, so they don’t have the support and guidance they need to figure out life.

Everyone around expects you to know how to do things you were never taught: planning for the future, making decisions, setting boundaries… it can all feel so overwhelming.

He came to therapy looking for help with anxiety.

As we discussed his family connections and history, Alex expressed his feelings about being alone in the world. He was in a safe environment, so he felt free to process those thoughts and feelings.

Some of our sessions were devoted to this kind of emotional processing; others focused on handling adult tasks like registering a car with the DMV or filing taxes. I am not a tax expert and couldn’t tell Alex what to do, but I presented him with some options, helped him weigh the pros and cons of each, and supported him as he made the best decision for himself.

But as we got to know each other, it became clear that anxiety wasn’t the main issue.

Alex began a deep, internal exploration.

No one had ever shown a deep interest in Alex, partly because he had moved from place to place and hadn’t formed many social connections.

But I listened to Alex and asked him questions that prompted him to consider things he’d never thought of. We made space to talk about and feel the deep sense of loss he was carrying. By feeling those emotions together, Alex felt less alone, and the feelings were not as intense.

We discussed and explored gender identity and sexuality. I supported Alex in deciding how to present to the world. Having someone whose only concern was his well-being made a big difference. There was space to try on different presentations and see what fit.

As we worked together, Alex came out more fully, developed a clear picture of his gender identity and sexuality, processed feelings of loss, and developed practical life skills.

When we parted ways, Alex felt ready to embrace social connections with family, tackle new challenges, and accept himself.

This is your time to grow. Let me support you!

This is your chance to connect with someone who has more life experience… but isn’t old, stuffy, and out-of-touch. I won’t tell you what to do in therapy, but I can help you see and assess your options.

Therapy was life-changing for Alex, and it can be life-changing for you, too!

Reach out today to schedule your first session: (507) 216-0106.

*Name changed to preserve client confidentiality.