Beyond the Spectrum: Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of LGBTQ+ Youths

by Haley Wikoff (Editor), Terence Mayo (Editor), Christopher N. Smith (Editor)

Overview

Beyond the Spectrum: Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of LGBTQ+ Youths delves into the multifaceted experiences of LGBTQ+ youths, unraveling the intricate interplay between mental health and identity within this diverse community. As societal attitudes shift, and acceptance grows, this book provides a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of the unique mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youths.

This book encompasses an in—depth examination of the intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, acknowledging that mental health struggles are shaped by various factors, including sexual orientation, gender identity, race, and socioeconomic status. Through personal narratives, scholarly insights, and mental health professionals' perspectives, the book aims to shed light on the diverse stories and struggles faced by LGBTQ+ youths, recognizing both resilience and vulnerability.

Beyond the Spectrum also seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue around LGBTQ+ mental health, fostering understanding, compassion, and actionable insights for mental health professionals, educators, parents, and the LGBTQ+ community at large. By navigating the complex and often overlooked mental health landscape of LGBTQ+ youths, this book aims to empower individuals, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for a more inclusive and affirming mental health paradigm.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781806860364
Publisher:	Emerald Publishing Limited
Publication date:	05/25/2026
Series:	Education Equity and Justice Series
Pages:	188
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x (d)

About the Author

Haley Wikoff, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at Western Illinois University.

Terence Mayo is a doctoral student in the Department of Teaching and Learning at New York University, specializing in Urban Education.

Christopher N. Smith is an Adjunct Professor at South Universityand Southern New Hampshire University.

Table of Contents

Section I. Environments of Belonging and Exclusion
Chapter 1. A Place Where They Can Be Themselves: Issues of LGBTQ+ Students; Michelle L. Knaier
Chapter 2. A Day in the Life of the LGBTQ+ Student: Exploring the Impacts of Educational Environment and Representation in School; S. Luke Anderson
Chapter 3. Helping Educators Increase LGBTQIA Student Voice, Visibility, and Agency Through Critical Intercultural Competency Self—Reflection; Jason Smith
Section II. Intersecting Identities, Resilience, and Community Care
Chapter 4. Along Two Spectrums: A Case Illustration on Resilience and Community Support for LGBTQ+ Autistic Individuals; Jodi H. Manton and Jennifer R. Curry
Chapter 5. Intersecting Identities: Black Lesbian Girls’ Pathways Through Mental Health Challenges in K–12 Schools; Adalphie Johnson
Chapter 6. Educational Cultural Visionaries: Intrageneration Mentoring – BlackQueer Youth Create and Provide Safety Within Their Relationships; Javania Michelle Webb
Section III. Loss, Advocacy, and Political Contexts
Chapter 7. Supporting Children and Adolescents’ Grief and Loss in LGBTQ+ Communities; Rebekah Byrd, Katie Atkins, and Sonya Lorelle
Chapter 8. Transgender and Gender—Expansive Youth’s Mental Health in the Sociopolitical Context; Maddox C. Emerick

Editorial Reviews

Beyond the Spectrum: Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of LGBTQ+ Youths offers a comprehensive and insightful guide that addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. Through a detailed examination, this book delves into under—researched areas and unveils the complexities related to identity, belonging, grief, and mental health. It features valuable insights from experts and poignant personal narratives. By emphasizing resilience, community support, and practical strategies, this book aims to enhance understanding, acceptance, and healing within both individuals and their communities. This publication is an essential addition to any library and serves as a valuable resource for teaching, learning, and research purposes.

Dr. Judy A. Alston

This volume is a “must read” for school policy makers and practitioners seeking to understand LGBTQ+ students’ well—being and school experiences. The authors provide research—based evidence to frame the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth and adolescents at the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. The chapters examine students’ mental health and well—being, discussing how they face challenges of loss, grief, anger, and joy. The research informs recommendations for suggestions for K—12 school curriculum, mental health services, and general school and social policies aimed at protecting and enhancing LGBTQ+ students’ school experiences.  

Dr. George L. Wimberly

A vital and deeply compassionate contribution to the field, this work amplifies often—overlooked voices with clarity and care. Through rigorous research and heartfelt narratives, it sheds urgent light on the intersecting challenges LGBTQIA+ youths face, offering educators, clinicians, and advocates a roadmap for transformative, inclusive mental health support.

Angel Miles