What should parents do when a child comes out? In this insightful episode, licensed clinical mental health counselor Dr. Sam Simon offers compassionate, practical advice for supporting LGBTQ+ youth—starting with simply saying, “Thank you for telling me.” She discusses how to respond with openness, avoid assumptions, and create a safe space for kids to explore their identities.
Dr. Sam highlights the impact of today’s political climate on queer and trans youth, shares why finding affirming therapists matters, and points parents to trusted resources like The Trevor Project, PFLAG, and local LGBTQ centers.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or ally, this conversation will help you show up with knowledge, empathy, and support.
Top Three Things You Will Learn In This Episode:
How to Respond When a Child Comes OutLearn why the first response should be gratitude ("Thank you for telling me"), and how to ask your child how they want to be supported without making assumptions.
How to Create a Safe, Supportive EnvironmentUnderstand the importance of approaching identity with curiosity—not doubt—and how to create space for exploration, especially based on a child’s age and developmental stage.
Where to Find Reliable Resources and SupportDiscover key resources like The Trevor Project, PFLAG, and local LGBTQ centers, and get tips on finding queer- and trans-informed therapists and online communities for ongoing support.
Episode Notes and Resources:
Avighna Holistic Care (Dr. Sam Simon) website: https://www.tebra.com/care/practice/avighna-holistic-care-568775
Trevor Project - https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
P flag - https://pflag.org/
Human Rights Campaign HRC - https://www.hrc.org/
Erin in the Morning - https://www.instagram.com/erininthemorning/?hl=en
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