Expired Engaging Parents of Latinx LGBTQ Youth: A Culturally Sensitive Stance of the Therapist

The stance of the therapist is a crucial component in understanding the experience of Latinx parents in their journeys toward nurturing their LGBTQ+ children. Youth of color are significantly less likely to disclose their LGBTQ+ identity to their parents. Often, rejection can be rooted in fear and lack of greater understanding and support. Therefore, as therapists we need to develop a deeper appreciation of their unique experiences.

In this workshop, we will discuss the intersecting aspects of identity and forms of oppression that impact these families. When Latinx parents struggle meeting the emotional needs of their LGBTQ+ children and adolescents, engagement is critical. As therapists, we can acknowledge that these families suffer vastly when they feel misunderstood in their efforts to support their LGBTQ+ children. Using a relational and culturally sensitive approach, we will learn about crucial opportunities of engagement by taking a non-hierarchical, non-judgmental and non-pathological position.

Learning Objectives:

• To develop a deep understanding of the importance of engagement as a continuing process to help parents connect more authentically and empathically with their Latinx LGBTQ+ youth
• To create space for an examination of the therapist’s social location and how it impacts the therapeutic process
• To increase ability to stay culturally sensitive in order to understand how cultural perspectives impact family relationships

Presenters:

Nestor Borrero-Bracero, PhD is a clinical psychologist at Borough of Manhattan Community College Counseling Center. He obtained his doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Puerto Rico. He is interested in relational and contextual factors that impact LGBTQ+ youth and families. He is also a Project Associate in The Latino Youth and Family Immigration Project: Dímelo en Español at the Institute. His personal experience as a native of Puerto Rico is influenced by principles of social justice and narrative therapy approaches.

Silvia B. Espinal began her family therapy training while being a graduate student at NYU Silver School of Social Work. She is the Director of The Latino Youth and Family Immigration Project and a Faculty member at the Institute. As a Latina immigrant and psychotherapist extensively trained in family systems theory, Silvia’s biculturalism and bilingualism have helped her grow a genuine and unique passion for the immigrant experience. She uses cultural sensitivity and a strength-based approach when working with families. In addition to having a private practice in New York City seeing a wide range of diverse populations, Silvia has experience working in community mental health clinics, small psychotherapy group practices, and large medical settings.

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