LGBTQ+ youth report discomfort, hesitancy in disclosure, and fear of judgment when discussing sexual health, gender identity, mental health, or family dynamics. The consequence of this reluctance reaches professional spaces in the form of delayed care and avoidable risks. This session will explore an aspect of this professional space, healthcare, by sharing the perspective of LGBTQ+ presenters’ relationship with healthcare and the insights of LGBTQ+ professionals working in the field. Attendees will learn what goes into creating an affirming environment, ways to advocate for their youth, and receive resources to create this welcoming space. Presenter Jasmin Rowe (any pronouns) will open with a reflection on their experience as an LGBTQ+ youth that has yet to come out to their parents. They will discuss the impact of reactions and responses from adults and how it has shaped their confidence in their identity, how they are trying to heal, and lessons they’ve learned to create a safe and affirming environment for youth. Presenter Aayush Pagaria (he/him) will draw on his experience as a gay Indian immigrant and pre-medical student to explore intersectionality, cultural trauma, and growing up in two lives. He’ll reflect on coming out at 18, “quiet advocacy,” and what he wishes he had heard. He’ll offer guidance for supporting LGBTQ+ youth navigating disclosure, religion, family dynamics, and sexual health vulnerability. Presenter Wayne Mai (they/all) will discuss their experiences on finding an affirming environment as a trans youth, including a vital “shoulder-drop moment” with their pediatrician. They will discuss how to create trustworthy spaces where youth feel comfortable to trust providers with their lived identities. Presenter Nate Pak (she/they) will share their experiences growing up transfeminine in South Korea, a conservative country, and analyze how her experiences with gender-affirming medical treatments inform her perspective on LGBTQ+ healthcare. Meanwhile, she will offer insight into the importance of familial support and how families can navigate societal, anti-LGBTQ+ pressures. The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with two professionals in healthcare, Dr. Vivienne Hau (she/her), vitreoretinal surgeon and co-chair of the American Society of Retina Specialists Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ad-Hoc Committee, and Brit Cervantes (they/them), Program Coordinator of UCI Gender Diversity and founder of Gender Affirming Professionals. Brit and Dr. Hau will provide their insights on being LGBTQ+ in the healthcare field and provide advice on what a professional can do for the LGBTQ+ youth they work with.