S4.5 | Dr. Frank Gorritz & Skyler Moore | Safe Space, Strong Futures: Creating Affirming Spaces for Queer Youth

In this episode of the podcast, Reina interviews Dr. Frank Gorritz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, counselor educator, and nationally recognized advocate with nearly a decade of clinical experience. He specializes in working with LGBTQIA+ communities and individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, racial stress, identity, and relationship concerns. Drawing from person-centered, expressive arts, relational-cultural, compassion-focused, and acceptance and commitment therapies, Dr. Gorritz provides affirming, culturally responsive care. Incoming president of SAIGE National and the Florida Counseling Association, as well as an award-winning national speaker, he is passionate about advancing social justice, equity, and inclusion through counseling, education, research, and advocacy.

Skyler is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern (#IMH28028) dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and families build emotional resilience through authentic connection and compassionate care. Guided by a person-centered approach, Skyler creates a safe, collaborative space where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow at their own pace. With extensive experience supporting individuals with autism, Skyler is passionate about fostering creativity, self-expression, and inclusion while helping young people navigate identity, life transitions, and emotional challenges with confidence and support.

Listen or Watch & Learn:

• Current statistics related to suicidality and non-suicidal self-harm among LGTBQIA+ Youth
• The difference between a space where a youth feels comfortable be themselves versus a space the celebrates their identity
• Three types of micro-aggressions that LGTBQIA+ Youth experience that can negatively impact mental health
• Protective and preventative factors for LGTBQIA+ Youth
• Techniques for creating supportive environments at home
• Resources for parents to learn more about LGTBQIA+ youth and receive support themselves
• How small symbols and messages of allyship can show your therapy practice is a safe place for LGTBQIA+ Youth

LINKS:

• Power in Pride Group starting September 4th at Florida Art Therapy Services, LLC
• PFLAG is the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.
• Parenting with Pride empowers parents in Florida with tools such as monthly webinars, links to resources, and supports to provide assistance for your child to grow and thrive.
• Visuality of SWFL promotes the health, safety, personal growth and overall wellness of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer plus community of SWFL and allies.
• ALSO Youth (Advocacy, Leadership, Support & Outreach) empowers LGTBQIA youth and allies through inclusive community making in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
• The TREVOR PROJECT is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386 to reach a crisis counselor.

Watch Here on YouTube!

Power in Pride groupwebsite

www.floridaarttherapyservices.com