Rafe grew up feeling very loved, but also feeling very different. In his teen years, he began to understand he was gay, but it took a while to open up, and to talk about a traumatic experience. A licensed clinical social worker who specializes in supporting QTBIPOC clients speaks with Juleyka about how we can all show up for our loved ones. 

This episode discusses troubling details, involving violence. Some listeners may find it disturbing.  

Our expert this week is Alina Maria Tello-Cordon, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Washington, currently working on a PhD in Clinical Sexology with concentrations in Transgender Health and Kink Conscious Therapy from the International Institute of Clinical Sexology. Learn more about her practice relationships.com/alina-tellocordon">here. Below is a list of resources Alina recommends:RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization.National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 

Trans Lifeline is a trans-led organization connecting trans people to community, support, and resources.Hotline: 1-877-565-8860  Hotline The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ young people under 25.It Gets Better Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ youth around the globe.

The National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color NetworkThis is a great resource for identifying mental health resources for Queer and Trans people of Color.Covenant House is an LGBTQIA+ affirming youth shelter that has locations across the U.S.The National Runaway Safeline provides advice and assistance to runaways, including resources, shelter, transportation, assistance in finding counseling, and transitioning back to home life. 

1800-RUNAWAY (800-786-2929)The True Colors Fund is working to end homelessness among LGBTQ youth, creating a world in which all young people can be their true selves. They run a database of service providers.Trans Student Educational Resources is a youth-led organization dedicated to transforming the educational environment for trans and gender nonconforming students through advocacy and empowerment.PFLAG provides support, information, and resources for LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies.

If you loved this episode, be sure to listen to She's Stuck in a Family Triangle and When Mamí Grieves Different Than You. If you loved this episode, be sure to listen to When Mamí and Papí Fight and My Divorce, My Parents, and Me.

We’d love to hear your stories of triumph and frustration so send us a detailed voice memo to hello@talktomamipapi.com. You might be on a future episode! Let’s connect on Twitter and Instagram at @TalkToMamiPapi and email us at hello@talktomamipapi.com. And subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.