Clinical Work with Children and Adolescents Growing Up with LGBTQ Parents

Children of LGBTQ parents present for therapy for a variety of reasons. This chapter uses clinical vignettes and up-to-date theoretical and clinical information to deepen the clinical understanding of the strengths and vulnerabilities of LGBTQ parents and their children. Developing a comprehensive formulation of a case involving the child of LGBTQ parents can help to guide appropriate therapeutic interventions. An intersectional life course perspective as well as minority stress theory are used in this chapter to illustrate how each family member’s development and life experience can impact their personal well-being as well as their relationships within the family. Case vignettes are shared to demonstrate how these theoretical concepts can play out in clinical situations. Finally, the chapter concludes with clinical suggestions for working with children of LGBTQ parents.