Episode
IFS Therapy for Gay and Queer Men: A Companion for After Coming Out, with Max Littman
- Published
- Jan 26, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 4397
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Summary
In this episode, I’m joined by IFS therapist, consultant, and author Max Littman, LCSW, for a deeply meaningful conversation about his groundbreaking new book: Internal Family Systems Therapy for Gay and Queer Men: A Companion for After Coming Out Max’s work centers the lived experiences of gay and queer men through an Internal Family Systems lens, offering a compassionate, culturally attuned resource for healing after the coming out process—when many parts, burdens, and relational dynamics can become activated in new ways. This episode is filled with tenderness, truth, and the powerful reminder that taking up space creates space—and that vulnerability can become an invitation for collective healing. We Discuss: Why Max wrote a companion for AFTER coming out, rather than before The emotional and relational layers that can emerge in the years following coming out How cultural burdens within gay and queer communities can shape internal parts and protective strategies The importance of representation, visibility, and storytelling as a form of collective unburdening Max’s personal experience navigating identity, attachment, and healing after coming out The powerful role of media and relational narratives, including reflections on Heated Rivalry and the impact of seeing queer struggle and love portrayed honestly An IFS-informed practice "The Pool Party" for meeting and understanding different parts Max’s heartfelt message to gay and queer men seeking deeper connection, healing, and wholeness Max reminds us that healing doesn’t stop once someone comes out. In many ways, it’s only the beginning of a deeper internal journey—one that includes meeting the parts shaped by shame, longing, belonging, protection, and cultural expectation. This conversation offers a supportive and em…