Sean Garcia on Supporting Young People Through Gender Identity, Neurodiversity, and Substance Use Challenges
So, as a professional, there's no test for being trans or non-binary, but we base it on three kind of subjective criteria, which is consistency, insistency and persistency, which is why having a relationship with a therapist is so important for minors.
Parenting a young person can be tough, but when you add gender identity, neurodiversity, substance use, and mental health into the mix, it can feel like an impossible puzzle. In this episode of 'Hopestream', host Brenda Zane sits down with licensed therapist Sean Garcia to untangle these complexities. Sean, one of the few trans-identified clinicians in Silicon Valley, brings a unique perspective to the conversation.
He shares his personal journey of coming out and transitioning, offering a deeply empathetic understanding of the struggles many young people face. Together, they discuss the unique challenges neurodiverse individuals encounter regarding gender identity and how these intersect with substance use and mental health issues. Sean highlights the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship and the pivotal role parents play in their child's healing process.
He also emphasizes creating an affirming environment and the small yet significant gestures that can make a world of difference. This episode is a must-listen for any parent feeling overwhelmed by these multifaceted issues. Tune in for practical advice, heartfelt stories, and a compassionate approach to navigating these challenging waters.