Please join us for a Queer Northshore LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group Session at the Abita Women’s Center on 11/29, 6:30-7:30pm.
Being in the LGBTQ+ community can be amazing, but it can also be scary, confusing, or even something you are forced to hide. One way we can help one another is simply by being there in times of joy and when someone needs extra support.
Starting in November, we will have the opportunity to lift each other up with our first LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group meeting. We are going to meet twice a month to begin with; if leadership is available and if there is interest, we may also explore expanding into more specific peer support groups (trans support, LGBTQ youth support, LGBTQ parent support, etc).
Our QNS peer support group is not a replacement for therapy, but having peers to share with can help each other feel less alone, especially here on the Northshore.
Our first peer support group leader will be QNS member, Leyla Hekmatdoost. Leyla is queer, a parent of LGBTQ+ children, holds an MA in Education, and has experience working with parents and children of families in crisis. As the peer support group evolves, we hope to recruit additional leadership from among the many wonderful mental health professionals who are QNS members. If you’re one of these professionals and are interested, please contact Leyla Hekmatdoost for more information.
Support Group FAQ
What topics will be discussed at the support group?
By definition, this group will come together to listen to challenges and successes that members of the group are experiencing and provide a safe space without judgment or fear. Common topics may include self-care, communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, boundaries, crisis situations, self-reflection and more.
Do you need to have something you want to talk about in order to participate?
No. You are more than welcome to attend just to listen to others and provide support from your own experiences.
Who can attend the support group?
Any QNS LGBTQ+ or Allied member who is 18 years or older may attend. We plan to provide a space for those under 18 in the future, but for now we are restricting attendance to 18+ as some material discussed may be difficult or less appropriate for minors.