LGBTQ & Questioning Support Group

The purpose of this group is to provide a safe, supportive, and affirming
environment where individuals can explore thoughts and feelings around sexual
orientation and gender identity.

The group is appropriate for individuals who are anywhere in the lifelong
“coming-out” process, which includes: people who may be uncertain and are
questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, people who may be
coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer, and people who
struggle with “being in the closet” at work or school, with friends, and with
their families.  The group is also appropriate for individuals who would
like to process or talk about some of the issues described below.

Themes and topics that arise in this group may include:

• Understanding and dealing with feelings of physical, emotional, spiritual, and sexual attraction
• Issues of gender identity and expression
• Examining the impact of stereotypes, social and gender roles and expectations
• Considering the consequences of homophobia, heterosexism, discrimination, and oppression
• Dealing with issues of vulnerability, guilt and shame
• Exploring the question, “Who am I?”
• Intersections of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, and culture
• Issues around labels, identities, authenticity, disclosure, belonging, rejection, and community
• “Coming out” process and stages
• Dealing with fear and isolation
• Accepting oneself and developing a positive self-image
• Coming out to family, friends, classmates and co-workers
• Developing allies and a support network
• Issues around loss and grief
• LGBTQ culture and communities

Location: Hall Health Primary Care Center, Mental Health Clinic, 3rd Floor

Start date:  October 4, 2012 (open membership & ongoing)

Time:  Thursdays, 1:30-3:00 p.m.

Frequency: Weekly, ongoing

Cost: $49/$64 per session, insurance may cover fees (please check with your insurance provider) $40 No Show Fee without 24 hour notice of cancellation

*Group screening/orientation is required.

If you are interested in joining the group, please contact the group leader: Ryli Webster, MSW, LICSW

(206-543-5030)   ryliw@uw.edu

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