Episode 103

Breaking Free: A Therapist's Journey to Queer Identity | David DeVore

Get ready for an intense journey of self-discovery and healing as we welcome David Devore, a psychotherapist and wellness coach. Listen in as David unravels his personal spiritual journey, shedding light on the struggles of coming to terms with his queer identity and how internalized homophobia and shame were affecting his life. His transformative experience has equipped him to work effectively with the LGBTQIA community, offering insights and support from a place of empathy and understanding.

We also focus on the importance of parental support for queer children. Our conversation with David delves into the complexities of shame, religion, and LGBTQ+ children, highlighting the potential damage the heteronormative narrative of religion can cause. We stress the significance of creating a safe and supportive space for children to express their identity, the role of education in fighting homophobia, and how parents can prepare themselves for this important conversation.

David discusses the significance of grace, understanding, and readiness to learn for parents navigating this sensitive terrain. Listen in to understand the potential effects of rejection, shunning ceremonies, and addiction that many queer youth face, and the immense power of support, acceptance, and open conversations. The profound connection between a parent and child can be maintained, despite the imperfections, as long as the conversation stays open and filled with love.

About our Guest:

David DeVore is a life coach specializing in the challenges of queer life such as coming out, internalized homophobia, and shame. David embarked upon a spiritual journey in his early 40s in response to midlife/existential crisis. He discovered that internalized homophobia and shame had been holding him back in all areas of his life, by negatively coloring the lens of his perspective. This cathartic moment ignited David's passion for the work he does with the LGBTQIA community today. David is a former masters level psychotherapist, and wellness coach. He enjoys hot yoba and meditation.

https://www.tiktok.com/@coachdevore

https://www.instagram.com/coachdevore/

https://coachdevore.com

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About the Podcast

Show artwork for Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen
Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen
With Host Heather Hester

About your host

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Heather Hester

Heather Hester is the founder of Chrysalis Mama which provides support and education to parents and allies of LGBTQIA adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. She is also the creator/host of the Top 1% podcast Just Breathe: Parenting your LGBTQ Teen. As an advocate and coach, she believes the coming out process is equal parts beautiful and messy. She works with her clients to let go of fear and feelings of isolation so that they can reconnect with themselves and their children with awareness and compassion. Heather also works within organizations via specialized programming to bring education and empowerment with a human touch. She is delighted to announce that her first book is out in the world as of May 2024 - Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower, and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen. Married to the funniest guy she’s ever known and the mother of four extraordinary kids (two of whom are LGBTQ) and one sassy mini bernedoodle, Heather believes in being authentic and embracing the messiness. You can almost always find her with a cup coffee nearby whether she’s at her computer, on her yoga mat, or listening to her favorite music.