LGBTQIA+ Survivor of Suicide Loss Support Group from IFS model
Introduction
The loss of a loved one to suicide is a devastating experience that can be compounded by the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. This is a hard and uncertain time and anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments are high. This support group seeks to provide a safe and affirming space for those who have lost a loved one to suicide within the queer community to share their experiences, grieve, and find support.
Remember
You are not alone. Grief is a natural and normal process, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Suicide complicates this process and can make it hard to be fully care for. This support group is here to help you through this difficult time.
Group Goals
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Provide a safe and affirming space: Create an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions without fear of judgment or discrimination.
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Strives to be affirming to trans, nonbinary, neurodivergent and people of color: While we will try to give all parts space, we will also seek to question hurtful situations, especially around these issues.
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Facilitate grief and healing: Support members through the grieving process, allowing them to express their emotions and find healthy coping mechanisms.
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Foster connection and community: Connect individuals who have experienced similar losses, creating a sense of belonging and shared understanding.
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Reduce isolation and stigma: Combat the isolation and stigma often associated with suicide loss within the LGBTQ+ community.
Share resources and information: Offer information and resources on suicide loss, grief support, and mental health services specifically tailored to the queer community.
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Group Structure
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Facilitated by trained professional: The group will be led by experienced facilitator with expertise in LGBTQ+ mental health and suicide loss. Charlie is a survivor of suicide, as well as a bi and trans man.
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Confidential and respectful: All group discussions are expected to be kept confidential, and members are expected to treat each other with respect and empathy. While all parts are welcome, we encourage people to try to speak for rather than from parts, with help from the facilitator.
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Open to LGBTQIA+ identified individuals who have experienced suicide loss: The group will be facilitated from the Internal Family Systems model, which comes from the idea that all parts of us deserve care and compassion.
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Meeting Format
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Check-in: Each meeting will begin with a check-in, allowing members to share their current emotional state and any updates since the last meeting.
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Understanding our reactions: We will explore our parts that working through this time.
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Group sharing: Members will have the opportunity to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings related to the discussion topic.
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Closing: The meeting will end with a closing activity, such as a guided meditation or a moment of silence to honor loved ones lost.
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How to Join
If you're interested in joining our Queer Loss Support Group, please contact me at Charlie@CharlieJO Therapy to set up a 15 minute free consultation to see if it is a good fit for you.
Wednesday Evenings, starting March 12th, 6:15pm.
I encourage everyone to also be in their own individual therapy, as well. I can help locate therapists resources for your situation, if you have struggled with finding a good fit.
There will be limit of 8 people. There is $50 suggested fee, but no one will be turned away for financial reasons. You may be able to bill to insurance- We can discuss at intake
This is a virtual group. It is limited to where I am licensed- Missouri, Illinois, Florida, Washington, New York, North Carolina
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