How to Create an Affirming Home Environment for LGBTQ+ Youth

ParentingChild Therapy
Written By Elora Ronaldes

As we welcome June- Pride Month- here at Reach Counseling we want to highlight an important and vibrant part of our community- those who identify as LGBTQ+! Being an inclusive practice is not just a value, but a foundation of our practice. Our counselors and staff are committed to creating a welcoming, affirming space where individuals of all identities can feel safe and supported. We believe everyone deserves to show up exactly as they are and receive compassionate, identity-affirming care. 

While we continue to foster that safety within our therapy rooms, we also recognize the vital role families play in supporting LGBTQ+ youth at home. Research shows that “LGBTQ+ young people are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers” (Johns et al., 2019; Johns et al., 2020). However, if these young people feel they have a highly-affirming home environment, the risk of suicide goes down by more than half. 

Creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming home environment can make a life-saving difference. Below, we’ve shared practical ways parents and caregivers can build that kind of supportive space within their own families.

For Younger Children

Offer affirming books and media

Provide books that are affirming of all identities, such as ones with same-sex parents, characters with they/them pronouns, characters that are non-binary, etc. Representation matters and helps children understand and appreciate diversity from an early age. Some great options are:

  • The Rainbow Parade by Emily Neilson

  • Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer

Challenge gender stereotypes

Avoid assigning certain colors, clothes, toys, or activities to specific genders. Instead, support your child's interests and allow them to explore freely. Let them know there's no "right" way to be a boy, girl, or anything in between. 

Celebrate self-expression!

Encourage creativity and exploration—whether it's through play, clothing, art, or imagination. Even something as simple as letting your child wear nail polish can be affirming! Let your child know that being themselves is always welcomed.

For Adolescents/Teens

Keep communication open and respectful

Make space for conversations about identity, including pronouns, gender expression, or anything else they’d like to share. Check in gently and listen with care, always honoring their boundaries.

Offer multiple ways to connect

Some teens may feel more comfortable expressing themselves in writing, over text, or through creative outlets. Providing different ways to communicate shows you're open and supportive to connect whenever they are, even if the conversations are tough.

Support their choices

Celebrate their self-expression- whether it’s their clothing, hairstyle, nail polish, or however they choose to present themselves. Your excitement and encouragement send a powerful message: you love them exactly as they are.

Foster a culture of acceptance

Make it clear that your home is a safe, affirming space for all identities. Promote and raise up local and national members of the community that advocate for equal rights for all. Encourage kindness and respect, both within the family and in the broader community. After all, research proves that having a supportive and accepting home environment does more than enough to protect and support your child.

Creating an affirming environment at home doesn’t require perfection—it starts with small, consistent actions rooted in love, respect, and curiosity. By supporting your child’s unique identity and encouraging open, judgment-free conversations, you’re helping build their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging. Whether your child is just beginning to explore who they are or already embracing their identity, knowing they are loved and accepted at home is one of the most powerful gifts you can give.

At Reach Counseling, we’re here to walk alongside you—offering guidance, resources, and compassionate care for every member of your family. Together, we can continue to build a community where all identities are seen, valued, and celebrated.

Want more resources? Check out these below!

If you’re looking to learn more about various identities, expressions, terms, or other related information, here are a few therapist-approved resources:

Local Resources:

National Resources:

Elora Ronaldes
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Understanding Mental Health Needs of LGBTQ+ Youth: A Guide for Parents