John Carroll, M.S. ’18 Featured in Redbook Magazine on How to Discuss LGBTQ+ Issues with Children

For parents uncertain of how to speak with their children about LGTBQ+ topics and issues, Mercy College alumnus John Carroll, M.S. ’18 offers a myriad of helpful tools and guidance shaped from his experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist in New York City. Recently quoted in a Redbook magazine article on how to teach children to love and accept others, Carroll emphasizes the importance of starting these conversations early in a child’s development process.

“Starting conversations with our children regarding current LGBTQ+ issues early on fosters a mindset of tolerance and inclusiveness throughout the child’s development," Carroll said. "Children are very perceptive and will take their cues on how to interpret the information from you. Having calm, grounded, mindful conversations with your children, holding space for any questions they may have, allows the child to better understand the issues and build empathy and compassion for others.”

Mercy is fortunate to have alumni of the Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy program such as Carroll influencing the perspectives of future generations to practice inclusivity.

To view the article, as well as learn strategies for teaching tolerance and acceptance and supplemental resources, please click here.