Nathalie Perdomo - Clinician

It’s that time of year again, it’s GIVE MIAMI DAY! The work we do here at The Alliance for LGBTQ Youth is truly lifesaving. As a clinician on staff, it’s a privilege to be able to create a space where youth feel seen, heard, and celebrated for all that they are. Through the profound moments of sharing and listening, I gain insight into the challenges our young people face concerning their LGBTQ+ identities and their journey through adolescence, as they discover themselves and their place in the world.

 Our youth have shared stories of discrimination due to their LGBTQ+ identities and feeling marginalized by their families, schools, and government, which is evident in the current political climate with anti-LGBTQ+ bills being introduced and passed. This has necessitated difficult conversations about grief, frustration, hopelessness, and anger as they navigate the impact of these bills at school and in healthcare settings. Facilitating these discussions and offering support to our young people is indeed lifesaving. LGBTQ+ youth face disproportionate representation in suicide rates, health risks, juvenile justice systems, and homelessness. The knowledge that affirming our young people and connecting them to resources are protective factors against these statistics is a motivating force to continue doing the work.

Our commitment extends beyond mental health support; we also empower LGBTQ+ youth to voice their truths. In addition to mental health services, we offer leadership opportunities through our Changemakers Leadership Program. I’ve had the privilege of supporting these young leaders through mental health guidance while they actively participate in the program. Collaborating with our young people is a constant source of inspiration. This past year they worked on creating a campaign to fight against the educational censorship happening in Florida. Their campaign and all their actions left a significant impact on our community and me. These LGBTQ+ youth are unapologetically themselves, proud, and are not afraid to speak up and make themselves known. Knowing them is a reminder of the strength and courage within us all. Knowing them encourages commitment to personal growth and being better.

It is essential that our LGBTQ+ youth continue to have access to spaces that wholeheartedly affirm, celebrate, and support their whole being. I am deeply invested in the work I do because I care deeply for our young people. Our LGBTQ+ youth are complete and deserving of constant reminders of their worth. As a Bisexual & Pansexual Latine woman, I understand the impact of having an affirming adult in one’s life, especially during the formative years. I am happy to be that person, sometimes even the only person, in our young people’s lives. I am honored to have the opportunity to model what healthy communication and affirmation looks like to our clients. I invite you to consider donating to our organization to be part of this incredible work and support our programs. Thank you for your attention and support!