With the emerging awareness of the transgender human experience, coupled with societal bias and lack of understanding, many young people suffer on a daily basis to simply exist in their own skin. Additionally, the political temperature surrounding LGBTQ+ laws and access to medical interventions has left many young people (and adults) feeling afraid to be themselves in public as their safety and civil rights are being threatened. Elizabeth Snelgrove Arauz, LCSW, is a clinician with Triad Psych, who specializes in working with people whom identify as non-binary and/or transgender. Ms. Snelgrove Arauz provides a safe, open and respectful setting that allows for growth, emotional support, education and a sense of community. Starting Tuesday, February 27th from 5pm – 6pm, and every other Tuesday through July 30th, Elizabeth will be facilitating the Trans Colorful Support Group where its attendees will meet peers, talk about experiences they have faced as a trans identifying person, discuss current/past laws regarding gender, learn about public and private resources available, discuss topics like, “coming out,” “using restrooms at school and other public settings” and “coping skills to manage gender dysphoria,” etc.
How to join: Set up interview with Elizabeth Snelgrove Arauz, LCSW by Fri., Feb 23rd
Group sessions: Every other Tuesday beginning, Feb. 27, 2024 through July 30, 2024 at 5:00pm
A combined neurodiverse therapy group aims to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism and neurodiversity to engage in social interactions, build connections, and develop social skills. Our group creates a positive and understanding community where individuals with neurodiversity can develop social skills, build connections, and experience a sense of belonging. Regularly gathering feedback from participants and adjusting activities based on their preferences and needs is essential for the continued success of the group. specific activities and strategies employed are as follows:
Structured Social Activities:
– Organize structured social activities to provide a predictable and comfortable environment. This may include board games, sensory-friendly outings, arts and crafts, or other activities that facilitate social engagement.
Facilitated Social Interactions:
– Have trained facilitators or group leaders who understand the unique needs of individuals with autism. These leaders can guide social interactions, provide support when needed, and create a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
Shared Interests and Hobbies:
– Focus on shared interests and hobbies as a basis for socialization. Many individuals with autism have specific interests, and creating activities around these interests can foster connections and conversation.
Communication Support:
– Implement communication support strategies, such as visual schedules, social scripts, and visual cues, to aid individuals in understanding and navigating social interactions. This can reduce anxiety and enhance communication.
Peer Mentoring:
– Introduce peer mentoring or buddy systems, where individuals with more developed social skills can support those who may need additional assistance. This creates a supportive community within the group.
Social Skills Training:
– Incorporate social skills training into the group sessions. This may involve role-playing, modeling appropriate social behaviors, and providing feedback to help individuals develop and practice social skills.
Sensory-Friendly Environment:
– Create a sensory-friendly environment by considering factors such as lighting, noise levels, and sensory stimuli. This ensures that individuals with sensory sensitivities feel comfortable and can fully participate.
Emphasis on Positive Reinforcement:
– Emphasize positive reinforcement to encourage desired social behaviors. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small, and create a positive atmosphere that reinforces a sense of accomplishment.
Community Involvement:
– Encourage involvement in the broader community. This may include collaborating with local businesses, organizing community events, or participating in community activities to foster a sense of belonging.
Regular Group Meetings:
– Host regular group meetings to provide consistency and routine. Regular meetings allow participants to build relationships over time and become more comfortable with the social dynamics of the group.
Family Involvement:
– Involve families in the social group. This can provide ongoing support and encourage the application of social skills learned within the group in real-life settings.
Supportive Environment for Communication:
– Create a supportive environment that encourages communication at each individual’s comfort level. This may involve providing quiet spaces for breaks and respecting the need for alone time.
Goal Setting and Progress Tracking:
– Collaboratively set socialization goals with participants and track their progress over time. Goal setting provides a sense of direction and accomplishment, and progress tracking helps individuals see their social development.
Educational Components:
– Include educational components on topics related to social skills, emotional regulation, and self-advocacy. Workshops or discussions can provide valuable information and strategies for individuals to apply in their social lives.
Flexible Approach:
– Maintain a flexible approach to accommodate individual differences and needs. Recognize that each participant is unique, and tailor support strategies accordingly.
How to join: Set up interview with Terrance Putter, MA | Group sessions: Every other Monday from 1:00pm to 3:00pm
If you would like to sign up for one of our groups please call 470-338-3488 or email at [email protected]