Tyrel Wilde, Student Intern
Tyrel’s main areas of specialization are with adolescents and LGBTQ+ individuals within Latter-Day Saint families. He has spent several years working with youth and young adults as well as engaging in research with these populations. Tyrel was raised within an LDS family and has prioritized the ability to maintain strong relationships with his family members and close friends who still practice Mormonism. He understands the complexity and uncertainties that can be associated with someone coming out as LGBTQ+ or deciding to step away from religion.
Tyrel believes that LGBTQ+ and religious identities may exist simultaneously and that they are not mutually exclusive. At the same time, he seeks to help individuals and families navigate their experiences with self-determination; there is not any single correct way to navigate these identities. Tyrel’s therapeutic approaches are informed by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, attachment theory, queer theory, intersectionality frameworks, and family systems theory.
Tyrel has a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and has worked as a high school English and Social Studies teacher in both Utah and Virginia. After returning to Utah from Virginia, Tyrel determined to transition careers from education to mental health services. He is currently in his final year of a Master’s of Social Work program at Utah State University where he has been specializing in LGBTQ+, religious, and adolescent identities. Tyrel has been engaged with LGBTQ+ and community advocacy for over 7 years. He has volunteered as a panelist and facilitator for Utah State University’s Ally Trainings and OUTspoken Panels. He served as the Vice President of the university’s Queer Student Association (QSA) from 2017-2018 and assisted in creating and co-facilitating the first Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) for Green Canyon High School in North Logan, UT. Tyrel’s volunteer work also extends to local communities which include: Logan Pride Center, Cache Pride Foundation, Encircle, LIFE (Love is for Everyone), and FHE for ALL (Faith, Healing, Education for Allies, LGBTQ+, and Leaders). Tyrel is currently participating in research studies to better understand and develop support for LGBTQ+ youth in rural settings as well as LGBTQ+ individuals with LDS affiliation.
Tyrel and his partner currently reside in Salt Lake City, UT. He enjoys the beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation that Utah offers. When not rock climbing, cycling, or hiking he and his partner dive into literary adventures through film, stories, and video games. No matter what he may be doing, Tyrel attempts to not only see the good in the world, but to be an influence for good in the world.
*Accepting New Clients*
Locations: Telehealth, South Jordan
Areas of Interest:
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Narrative Therapy
Attachment Theory
Queer Theory
Intersectionality Frameworks
Family Systems Theory