Those of us in the psychotherapy field know that the presenting complaint is usually not the main concern, it is just the ticket of admission.
I saw a 16 year old young man a while ago who presented with complaints for depression and anxiety. He didn't really report any symptoms of depression and anxiety but seemed to enjoy our visits. At the end of the third visit I made my customary comment, "We have five more minutes, is there anything else you wanted to talk about today?"
There was a long pause and a look of perplexity and then he said, "Yeah, how do I come out to my parents?"
We call this a door knob issue meaning that the most important topic comes up in the waning minute of the session.
How indeed does he come out to his parents? Huge topic. Good question.
Dr. Caitlin Ryan discusses this on the University of Buffalo's School of Social Work podcast called Living Proof. The title of the show with Dr. Ryan is "Reducing Risk and Promoting Well Being For LGBT Youth: The Role Of Family Support".
If you work with adolescents and families I recommend it to you. If you know an LBGT youth and their family they probably could use your support and understanding.
You can access the show by clicking here.
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