A Therapist’s Reaction to Taylor Swift: You Need to Calm Down

I heard Taylor Swift’s new song today, and I thought it was amazing. I have always been a Swift fan, but this song took it to a whole new level for me. If you haven’t already, give it a listen.

This song is great!

As someone who provides play therapy, I think it is crucial that children learn about diverse people and feel truly represented in the culture. This song and the associated music video focuses on uplifting the LGBTQ+ community and telling the “haters” to “calm down.” Many prominent LGBTQ+ celebrities are featured in the video, and the emphasis is on being true to yourself regardless of how others may judge you. What a great message!

Inclusion helps everyone.

Many times, pop culture is exclusive as opposed to inclusive. Taylor Swift’s new song is an example of a time when an ally stood strong to support a minority culture. This is a win for everyone. When people who think and act differently work together, new advances can be made. This is an opportunity for us all to remember to be ourselves and learn from those who have a different perspective.

When looking for a therapist, it can be a challenge to know if the person is truly accepting of all individuals because many therapists do not specifically write about their work with the LGBT+ community. This can leave some worried about having to come out all over again. There may be fear of rejection or a poor therapy experience. When therapists speak directly to the community, it helps prospective clients to know through the language used if a therapist is going to be accepting, affirmative, and sensitive to the specific challenges members of the LGBT+ community face.

Through working with a therapist, it can be possible to fully embrace your identity and continue to live into your truth. With this opportunity, the world can learn that members of the LGBT+ community are just like everyone else, but also have a unique set of experiences that can help to make for a more rich, colorful atmosphere.

Nourish: A respectful therapy space

In the counseling & play therapy services at Nourish, my clients can be assured that they will be treated with respect and dignity. Not only do I accept people regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, I will work with you to feel affirmed and confident in being your true, authentic self.

Parents of LGBTQ+ kids and teens often worry that a therapist will try to “fix” their child. I will not do that. In my eyes, there is nothing to “fix.” I will help your child or teen process their feelings regarding their identity and encourage them to be true to themselves with my creative approach to counseling. I will also work with you in parent consultations to discuss ways you can support your child’s self-exploration in age and developmentally appropriate ways.

Let’s work together so that you can feel ready to be your true self.