How to support trans youth & their families amid Trump’s gender-affirming care ban, say therapists

The mental health impact of this ban is immediate and devastating

The moment this executive order was signed, the damage was done—regardless of whether it holds up in court. The fear and uncertainty it has unleashed are already shaping the lives of trans youth across the country.

“This executive order leaves trans youth and their loved ones in a state of panic, uncertainty, and a great loss of choice when it comes to their health and well-being,” says Dr. Jenna Brownfield, a licensed psychologist in Minneapolis who specializes in therapy for queer and trans people. “Regardless of whether the executive order is enacted or gets blocked, the emotional and psychological impact is already being done.”

The message this policy sends is both clear and dangerous. “Beyond the threat of immediate loss of essential care, policies like this send a devastating message to trans youth—that there is something inherently wrong with them and that they do not belong in this country,” says Rebecca Minor, MSW, LICSW, Gender Specialist, and author of the forthcoming Raising Trans Kids: What to Expect When You Weren’t Expecting This. “It makes clear that their existence is not valued and that their rights are constantly up for debate.”

The fallout is already measurable. “Following the recent election and subsequent executive orders, crisis hotlines have reported significant increases in calls from LGBTQ+ youth,” Minor notes. “The Trevor Project experienced a 700% surge in crisis contacts the day after the election. Similarly, the Rainbow Youth Project reported receiving over 1,400 calls on Inauguration Day alone, compared to their usual monthly average of approximately 3,765 calls.”

How to support trans youth right now

With fear and distress at an all-time high, showing up for trans youth in tangible ways is more critical than ever. The therapists we spoke with shared actionable steps for supporting young trans people in this moment, including, but not limited to:

• Acknowledging the executive order and recognizing their feelings about it.
• Reaffirming your support. “Remind them of your continued love and support for them and all trans people,” says Brownfield.
• Honoring their autonomy. “Listen deeply and validate their fears, pain, and grief—do not minimize their experiences,” says Melody Li, LMFT, a mental health justice activist and founder of Inclusive Therapists. “When the nervous system is overwhelmed, it is natural to feel frozen or detached. Offer to lighten the load by taking action, such as researching resources, peer-support groups, or ways to mobilize in solidarity.”
• Helping them access resources. Whether it’s a support group, an affirming therapist, or advocacy organizations, helping trans youth find alternative pathways to care can make all the difference.
• Creating a space of belonging. “Facilitating peer connections—whether through online groups, mentorship programs, or supportive networks—can offer trans youth a sense of belonging and shared experience,” says Minor.

Supporting parents and caregivers

The pain of this moment is not limited to trans youth—it extends to their families and loved ones as well. Many parents are grappling with fear, frustration, and uncertainty, wondering how they can protect their children in a country that seems intent on stripping away their rights.

“There is no right or wrong way to process this,” says Minor. “Parents and caregivers need to know that they are allowed to feel whatever they are feeling, and they don’t have to go through it alone.”

For those supporting loved ones of trans youth, Brownfield advises:

• Validate their fears and feelings of helplessness.
• Remind them they are not alone. “Even with the federal government’s anti-trans hostility, you and many others love their trans kid and love that they affirm their kid,” she says.
• Encourage community connection. Minor suggests joining support groups like PFLAG, where parents can share experiences, gain reassurance, and learn advocacy strategies.

How allies can show up without burning out

For those fighting alongside trans youth and their families, self-preservation is essential. Advocacy is a long-term battle, and sustainable activism requires balance.

“Find your balance between taking action and taking time for yourself,” says Brownfield. “This will not be a short fight. We need to take action and offer support to each other in sustainable ways.”

Minor echoes the importance of avoiding burnout while maintaining engagement. “Being an ally is a lifelong commitment, and taking care of ourselves allows us to show up for trans youth and their families in meaningful and sustainable ways,” she says.

Resources for trans youth and their families

Despite the government’s attack, resources remain available.

“Many trans youth are understandably afraid to seek help, fearing that the police or the oppressive state will pose further harm or danger to them,” says Li. “It is essential to equip the trans community with crisis resources that divest from the police, that center on collective care and peer support.”

Here are some of her recommendations for where trans youth and their families can turn for support:

• Finding affirming therapists: Inclusive Therapists and the National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network
• Crisis services that don’t involve police: Trans Lifeline (US: 1-877-565-8860) and Thrive Lifeline
• Support groups for parents and families: PFLAG
• Legal and advocacy organizations: ACLU, Gender Justice, Advocates for Trans Equality
• Suicide prevention and mental health resources: The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386)

The fight isn’t over! We keep going

The Trump administration’s executive order is a direct assault on transgender lives, but history has shown us that resistance is powerful.

“We are not the first people to fight these battles—there are leaders who came before us who have paved the way,” says Minor. “The fight for trans rights has a long history, and we are part of a much larger movement that will continue, no matter what obstacles arise.”

As this moment unfolds, we keep fighting, we keep showing up, and we keep making it clear that trans youth are loved, valued, and here to stay.