Affirming Psychotherapy in a Non-Affirming Time
At The Help Group, we are deeply committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces for all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. In a time when acceptance and understanding are more critical than ever, we stand firmly with our gender-diverse community members and advocate for their right to live authentically and safely.
Dr. Laurie Stephens, Developmental Psychologist and Senior Director of Autism & Clinical Services at The Help Group recently presented, “Affirming Psychotherapy in a Non-Affirming Time: Tips for Helping Your Autistic Gender-Diverse Clients Feel Safe and Heard,” at the June 2025 Edgy Conference. In today’s political climate, autistic gender-diverse individuals face dual marginalization that heightens anxiety, depression, and fears for their safety. This leads some to consider masking their identities or even relocating. Dr. Stephens identified these mental health concerns, shared frontline trends from providers, and showcased evidence-based strategies that restore autonomy, empower authenticity, and foster resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Here is an overview of Dr. Stephens’ presentation on supporting autistic transgender clients in a non-affirming world.
As a psychologist working primarily with autistic transgender clients, I’ve found myself navigating a difficult balance: affirming identity while prioritizing safety. In today’s political climate where both autistic and trans communities face increasing hostility and erasure, mental health care must evolve to meet the moment.
Where I once encouraged clients to live openly and authentically, I now help them weigh visibility against safety. The goal isn’t to mask who they are, but to equip them with tools for resilience, discretion, and empowerment.
Here’s the framework I’ve found most helpful:
1. Affirm Identity, Prioritize Safety
Being selective about disclosure isn’t inauthentic—it’s survival. Help clients embrace both radical self-acceptance and strategic discretion.
Mantra: “This is not a safe place for me to share everything about myself, and that’s okay.”
2. Know the Laws
Educate clients on their rights and risks. Promote digital safety and awareness of local protections (or lack thereof).
3. Protect Mental Health
Encourage limits on news exposure and build a “toolbox” of affirming media, coping strategies, and emergency plans.
Mantra: “I exist outside of their laws. I am real, and I am worthy.”
4. Lean on Community
Support clients in finding or creating affirming spaces—online or in-person. Even one safe connection makes a difference.
5. Redefine Visibility
Visibility is powerful—but not required. Explore subtle, private ways to express identity. Authenticity is a process, not a performance.
6. Plan for Safety
Prepare for hostile environments with response plans, safe storage of documents, and practiced boundaries—without instilling fear.
7. Center Joy
Joy is resistance. Help clients find moments of pleasure, euphoria, and creative expression.
“Joy is not a distraction. It’s fuel for the fight.”
8. Take Care of You
Model self-care and boundaries. Stay informed, but protect your own well-being, too.
This is a hard time, but our clients are resilient. With compassion, creativity, and intention, we can still offer care that is affirming, protective, and liberating.
The Help Group’s Kaleidoscope program provides affirming support and specialized services for LGBTQIA+ youth, young adults, and their families. It offers a safe space for identity exploration, mental health support, and community connection through counseling, workshops, and social events. To learn more about The Help Group’s support of autistic gender-diverse individuals or to connect with Dr. Laurie Stephens, visit KaleidoscopeLGBTQ.