Courtney Davila, our Web & Media Manager shares their story of being a young LGBTQ+ person in today’s world… “So I’m a big TV watcher… (Who isn’t?!) Lately, I’ve been so appreciative to see more queer and trans representation on screen. However, it pains me to see these teen characters face many of the same problems that I faced when I was in highschool—loneliness, confusion, sadness, and a lack of affirming resources and role models. Queer & trans teens experience these emotions in addition to the typical stressors brought on from classes, exams, friends & family, etc.

Though LGBTQIA+ teens these days have access to an incredible amount of resources, they continue to face cruel legislative battles such as bathroom bills, bans in sports, and mandatory outings by school faculty, to name a few.

Watching these fictional plots on screen depict the same—and newer issues that I faced 8 years ago is heartbreaking. As someone who survived the unique experience of being a queer teen, it is part of my personal mission to help support today’s LGBTQIA+ youth.

When I started working at Gender Wellness of Los Angeles, I wasn’t aware of the impact that GWLA was already enacting on the greater LGBTQIA+ community, as well as within allied families. By fostering community and helping connect folks to the care they need, my hope is  that Gender Wellness (and its amazing partners) will impact as many lives as possible.

GWLA’s motto, ‘We are unerasable’ is taken to heart by our entire team. 

Though each generation of queer & trans folks comes with greater battles, we find greater understanding, greater resources, and greater love. I am honored to be supporting my community in this capacity. I know that my younger self would be very proud.”

Take care,

— Courtney (they/she)

If you’d like to read more posts written by our team, click here. And if you or a loved one would like to connect with our team of LGBTQIA+ therapists, click here.