Witnessing your child's first steps toward becoming who they are can be as awe-inspiring as it is daunting.

On today’s episode of Metamorphosis Unleashed, Doc G navigates these waters with Kristen Cooper, who brings personal experience raising her non-binary child, Ash. Kristen's heartfelt stories—from embracing unexpected motherhood to tackling discrimination challenges—reveal the rich tapestry of intersectionality and empathy in understanding our children's unique identities. We discuss the complexities of raising children who don't fit neatly into society's checkboxes, highlighting the pivotal role of support and acceptance in their development.

Like any journey, parenting comes with its fair share of trials and triumphs. Doc G shares a poignant story of her daughter's encounter with a beloved pet, which is a springboard into the broader issues of discerning a child's actions and intentions. Kristen and Doc G broach the subject of therapy for neurodiverse children and the emotional rollercoaster that can accompany our quest for appropriate care. We uncover the doubt and guilt that often accompany parenting, affirming the need to be patient with ourselves as we learn to nurture our children's needs.

Doc G and Kristen take a hopeful look at the future as we discuss the transition of a neurodiverse high school student to college. We explore the considerations for choosing an environment that educates and celebrates the individuality of non-binary students.

Join us for an episode that celebrates diversity as much as it guides you through the intertwining paths of neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ identities.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Kristen Cooper’s experiences raising a non-binary and neurodiverse child, Ash
• The importance of empathy and understanding in parenting
• The concept of intersectionality and the compounded discrimination faced by individuals with multiple marginalized identities
• Recognizing and addressing a child's neurodiverse needs, including the decision-making process and the role of therapy
• Selecting a supportive college environment for a neurodiverse and non-binary student and the relief of finding a good fit
• Accepting and supporting a child's LGBTQ+ identity within a family and religious community
• Creating an inclusive and understanding support system for non-binary and neurodiverse children
• Kristen's personal growth as a parent and her advice to others navigating similar parenting challenges with neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ children

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.