For Immediate Release
October 15, 2015
CONTACT:
Deborah Hamilton, Hamilton Strategies, 215.815.7716, 610.584.1096, ext. 102, or Jen Wozniak, 610.584.1096, ext. 100, Media@HamiltonStrategies.com
Tough Parenting Questions Are Answered for Fathers of Gay Children at Upcoming Healing Weekend
Counselor Christopher Doyle Helps Fathers Work Through Children’s Complex Gender and Sexuality Issues
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Now
with five young children of his own, licensed professional counselor
Christopher Doyle is beginning to formulate his own parenting strategy,
especially important as his children get older and questions about
sexuality and gender will eventually surface.
There
was a time—when Doyle was trapped in a homosexual lifestyle that
spiraled out of control from his unwanted same-sex attractions—that he
never thought he would have a family or be a father.
But Doyle, who also serves as director of the International Healing Foundation (www.ComingOutLoved.com), sought
help, healing and restoration that he says saved his life and helped
him realize his dream of being a husband and father.
“Parenting
is already one of the toughest jobs in the world,” Doyle said. “But
when a child tells his or her parents about a struggle with homosexual
attractions or gender identity confusion, it can take parenting
difficulties, confusion and uncertainties to a new level. Men,
especially, can resist asking for help, but when they finally do, they
meet other fathers who are in their same situation, which opens doors
for second chances and real change.”
To
help fathers navigate some of the complex parenting issues that include
unwanted same-sex attractions and gender identity confusion, Doyle is
hosting a “Key to Your Child’s Heart Father’s Healing Weekend” on Nov.
6-8 in Hagerstown, Md., which will give fathers the opportunity to
connect with other fathers who are facing the same issues. The weekend
seminars will allow them to learn together, rise up and tackle the
challenges that affect their families and children.
“Because
help was once available to me,” Doyle continued, “I can help others in
their own difficult situations, reminding them that change and a new
life is possible for them and their kids, too. Through counseling with
fathers, we find that they are often empowered by understanding how
their own background has influenced their parenting, and at the same
time, they realize how they can lead their children and family into a
healthier future.”
Said
one past participant in a Healing Weekend for Fathers:
“It was worth
every second and dollar I spent! The weekend was hard work, interspersed
with a life-changing understanding of myself and my family. What I knew
in my head wasn’t what I did from my heart. This weekend showed me the
difference. What I wanted to do, I didn’t know how to do, until this
weekend showed me and gave me the confidence to try. … It was a weekend
surrounded by professionals who were willing to listen with empathy and
eager to help. I continue to correspond with the men I met and share
successes and challenges.”
Doyle
will help fathers who attend gain insight into their children’s needs
by learning, growing and taking part in group activities during the
interactive weekend.
To register, or for more information, visit www.comingoutloved.com/healing-weekends. ###
To interview Christopher Doyle, contact Deborah Hamilton at 215-815-7716 or 610-584-1096, ext. 102, or Jen Wozniak, 610-584-1096, ext. 100, Media@HamiltonStrategies.com. International Healing Foundation (IHF),
founded in 1990, believes some live a heterosexual, homosexual,
bisexual, transgender or transsexual life, while others are unsure about
their sexuality and seek to explore alternatives. IHF upholds the
rights to self-determination and values the right of autonomy, and is
committed to helping people on their journey of self-discovery. IHF’s
goal is to promote healthy individuals and relationships, while
assisting in the healing of families, communities and places of worship.
