The Need for More Inclusivity: Why the Rainbow Group was Created
In today’s world, we are seeing more and more youth exploring and opening up about their gender identity and sexuality and we’re here for it!
At Therapyology, we strive to create a more inclusive society; it’s a big part of our mission! That’s why we created the Rainbow Group, an inclusive group for tweens and teens who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community to receive the support they crave and a place where they can feel “home.”
LGBTQ Youth Support When Questioning Your Gender or Sexuality
Questioning your gender or sexuality? The RAINBOW group is a welcoming space where people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultures can find support and unconditional acceptance. The group was created with the intention of providing LGBTQ-identifying youth with connection, support, and community. Members can build self-awareness, learn about themselves, and participate in mutually supportive discussions in a safe, inclusive environment.
It has always been a passion of mine to work with and support the LGBTQIA+ community, and with that comes many questions from teens and parents navigating these waters.
Questions such as:
“How do I talk to my parents and about my gender or sexuality?”
I’m glad you asked because we’ll discuss this in our group! No matter what kind of family support you have, we’ll help navigate the (sometimes) tricky conversations around these topics.
“Will my friends support me or judge me and leave me?”
Fear and worry about whether your friends or peer group will accept you or ditch you are real! Finding comfort in knowing that you’re not alone and in the same boat as so many others is incredibly supportive and therapeutic.
“How do I approach dating or romantic relationships within the LGBTQIA+ community?”
The Rainbow group is a safe space to explore a range of topics from exploring consent, safety, health, and signs of abuse.
“How do I deal with bullying?”
In our group, we will introduce tools and practice coping skills together that help us navigate these adolescent years. What’s that age-old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me?” Um, NO, words do hurt! That pain and hurt can increase thoughts of anxiety and depression. We practice an acceptance and commitment approach to addressing bullying.
“What if I’m not ready yet?”
That’s okay! No matter where you are in your gender and sexuality journey, we are here to support you.
Being a part of the Rainbow group has so many benefits, thanks in part to support from the facilitator and other group members. The Rainbow group offers support, feedback, and advice, as well as a safe space to explore thoughts and emotions together.
The Rainbow Group Offers LGBTQ Youth Support Through:
- Navigating the coming-out discussion
- Exploring individual identity
- Creating allies of your friends and family
- Destigmatizing gender/sexuality “norms” and stereotypes
Contact us for LGBTQ youth support, feedback, and advice in a safe space. We will explore thoughts and emotions together.
LGTBQ Youth Support in an Era of Equality
With new legislation coming out in 2021 such as the Equality Act, a landmark LGBTQIA+ rights bill that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, moves are being made toward a new era of freedom, safety, and acceptance for the LGBTQIA+ community and I couldn’t be more excited to help shape a new generation of positive, healthy, and confident LGBTQIA+ youth.
Despite recent improvements in LGBTQ+ rights and awareness, hate crimes and anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation have not yet become a thing of the past; unfortunately, they are still very much present today. As a result, identifying outside of the heterosexual or cisgender societal norms can feel very isolating and, yes, even scary at times. Here at Therapyology, it is my hope and mission that this group will aid tweens and teens in creating safe spaces and a strong sense of community to combat discrimination and negative attitudes we see in our society and empower the next generation to take pride in their identities, and lead lives that are true, happy, and fulfilled.
Can’t wait to see you in the Rainbow Group!!
Join the Rainbow Group: An LGBTQ youth support group in West Bloomfield, MI
You deserve to feel supported in a safe, judgment-free group. Our West Bloomfield therapy practice has caring therapists who can help you feel part of a community. You can begin to feel secure as you explore your identities at Therapyology. To start your counseling journey, follow these simple steps:
- Request an appointment
- Meet with one of our caring therapists
- Start feeling more empowered!
Other Services Offered at Therapyology
Our LGBTQ youth support group isn’t the only service we offer in our West Bloomfield, MI-based therapy practice. Other mental health services Therapyology provides include grief counseling, therapy for children, therapy for teens, groups, and workshops, therapy for children of divorce, and Camp Therapyology.
