On a recent facebook thread I read the following things being said about me: “Parker is a social and sexual radical and sexual revolutionist.” This was not meant as a compliment by the way… “So extremed and ideologically fevered that she even outdoes among the most exuberant of her ideological comrades from my generation – no small task.” If you want to see the full comments you can click here. Although I’m not interested in further dialogue with any one... Read more
Super powerful article. It’s difficult during these times of family reunions to sometimes know how to respond to uncomfortable situations where family members may be well meaning… and yet are not willing to check their own egos, “hurt feelings,” or traditions in behalf of children or other vulnerable members. Let’s check our boundaries everyone. Body autonomy matters. And if your feelings are hurt because someone stands up for their body…. be willing to check what that’s about. Nothing like a... Read more
Really enjoyed reading this article and following the link to the actual cartoons. These are great examples that fly in the face of both patriarchy and how fathers in particular are often portrayed in the media. Here is a man who is parenting in empathic, LGBTQ+ affirming, emotionally intelligent, gender affirming, and kind ways. He tackles social justice on a variety of fronts and could be used as a resource for us as parents… as well as starting interesting conversations... Read more
The following blog was written by one of my Symmetry Solutions providers, Lisa Butterworth. It’s perfectly normal to feel confused when trying to decide if your partner’s behavior is abusive or controlling. Our brains are wired to prioritize connection to our loved ones, so it’s actually healthy in most relationships to overlook some bad behaviors (just as we hope some of our bad behaviors will be overlooked). We aren’t stupid or weak if we are confused or feel we’ve overlooked... Read more
I share the same concerns Jana Riess shares here. This system sets it up so that certain types of missions are superior to others. Only if you have mental health concerns or other types of disabilities are you delegated to serve service missions. It is a recipe ripe for discrimination, stigma and “othering.” It is good that we are talking about the fact that it is not “necessary” for everyone to serve a mission in order to remain righteous or... Read more
As part of transgender week I’d like to share this. Its not as complicated of an issue as it seems. We love. We are accepting. We honor. Also… the following: 52 Things You Can Do for Transgender Equality Natasha Helfer Parker, LCMFT, CST can be reached at natashaparker.org and runs an online practice, Symmetry Solutions, which focuses on helping families and individuals with faith concerns, sexuality and mental health. She hosts the Mormon Mental Health and Mormon Sex Info Podcasts, is the current president of the Mormon Mental Health Association and... Read more
This weekend is the 5th Annual Conference of the Mormon Mental Association. The Annual Conference typically averages 50-70 conference attendees who are interested in mental health issues as they relate to the LDS/Mormon community. Registrants are adept in disciplines such as education, counseling, therapy, social work, psychology, sociology, research, nursing, medicine, mediation, advocacy and more. This is a wonderful place to network and reconnect with other practitioners and professionals. Conference offers 3 hours of Ethics CEs and 6 general CEs.... Read more
I have been open in the past in regards to my concerns for the outdated, abusive, and socially ostracizing practice of excommunication. It’s a spiritually violent, unnecessary act that does not represent the beautiful ministering messages we can read from Jesus Christ. Not to mention it does much harm for a person’s mental health and wellbeing. Friend and fellow podcaster Bill Reel (host of Mormon Discussions), is facing an LDS disciplinary counsel and more than likely, excommunication. Once again… for talking... Read more
I thought that for Deseret News, this was a well done piece. It’s very comprehensive in nature and it’s addressing an important conversation that is often not spoken of. It’s complicated by the very strong messaging we find in LDS culture regarding the expectations, importance of and social placement status generated by missions. I hope you all take the time to read it. My colleague, friend and MMHA board member, Randy Moss is featured as one of the clinicians offering his... Read more
I find great awe and admiration to families that prioritize offering their children a variety of rituals and beliefs in mixed-faith settings. There are such great and unique opportunities to role model gospel principles in mixed-faith families. Here is a beautiful example of Joanna Brooks, a feminist Mormon mother, who is married to a Jewish man. Today’s guest post is written by Joann Brooks. Opinions shared on guest posts may not completely reflect the positions of the blog’s author. Joanna Brooks... Read more
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