Trans adults up to age 25 can connect with kids as young as 14 through an exciting weekly online program
(Liudmila Evsegneeva, Grabien)
A Bay Area kids’ counseling service is bringing together LGBT adults and minors in a series of engaging online meet-ups to discuss gender and sexuality.
Through Outlet, the LGBT division of Adolescent Counseling Services, transgender adults up to age 25 can have open conversations about gender identity with kids as young as 14. Additionally, there is a weekly “LGBTQIA+ youth group” where 10-year-olds who identify as LGBT can chat with teens up to age 18. And for individuals aged 14-25, there is a ”Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color” meet-up.
While these meet-ups have raised concerns among local teachers and parents, similar worries have been expressed about the Trevor Project, a national organization focused on LGBT youth. The Trevor Project’s online chatroom is open to kids and adults aged 13-24, and there have been instances of adults promoting transgenderism to minors in that space.
Erin Friday, a San Francisco attorney and co-lead of Our Duty, a support group for parents of gender-confused kids, expressed her concerns about the mingling of 10-year-olds and 18-year-olds, stating that these groups are contributing to the “gender medical complex.”
Outlet’s sessions require minimal gatekeeping, with only a 10-minute video orientation. The sign-up form even allows kids to keep their participation secret from their parents and gives them the option to have Outlet representatives conceal their affiliation when contacting them. Outlet is affiliated with Adolescent Counseling Services, which provides counseling services to kids in four Bay Area public schools and a youth center.
The San Mateo Pride Center, in partnership with Outlet, supports LGBTQ+ community members of all ages and features Outlet’s sessions in its list of local peer support groups. Outlet recently held a fundraiser sponsored by Stanford Medicine pediatrics, Genentech, Yahoo, and others.
Outlet’s clinical coordinator and Adolescent Counseling Services’ executive director did not respond to questions about participant screening, age range selection, and measures to prevent offline connections between adults and kids. The sign-up form requires participants to provide their dates of birth and addresses but does not ask for proof. Additionally, a high school counseling office in San Mateo sent flyers promoting the meet-ups to teachers as a resource for students.
How does the one-on-one counseling option provided by the program cater to individuals who may not feel comfortable speaking in a group setting?
Those who may not feel comfortable speaking in a group setting, there are one-on-one counseling sessions available as well.
This program aims to create a safe and supportive space for young individuals to explore and understand their own gender identities and sexualities. It provides an opportunity for them to connect with older LGBT individuals who have gone through similar experiences and can offer guidance and support.
By connecting trans adults with younger individuals, this program aims to bridge the generation gap and create a sense of community among the LGBT community. It allows for a sharing of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives, which can be incredibly valuable for both parties involved.
It is important to note that the program takes great care in ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. Strict confidentiality guidelines are in place to protect the privacy of individuals, and all conversations are monitored and moderated to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment.
The online format of the program allows for accessibility and convenience. Participants from different locations can come together without the barriers of distance or transportation. It also offers a level of anonymity that may make individuals feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and questions.
The weekly meet-ups and chat groups are structured to facilitate meaningful conversations and learning experiences. Trained counselors and facilitators guide the discussions and provide resources and information to participants. The topics covered span a wide range, including gender identity, coming out, self-acceptance, relationships, and mental health.
For many individuals, especially those in smaller communities or those who may not have access to LGBT resources, this program can be a lifeline. It provides a sense of connection and belonging, which can be crucial for the well-being and development of young LGBT individuals.
Furthermore, this program has the potential to contribute to the broader acceptance and understanding of transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals in society. By promoting dialogue and education, it helps break down stereotypes and prejudices, fostering a more tolerant and inclusive environment.
The importance of support systems for young individuals exploring their identities cannot be emphasized enough. This program offers a unique and valuable opportunity for trans adults and young individuals to connect, share experiences, and navigate their journeys together.
In conclusion, the weekly online program organized by Outlet is a groundbreaking initiative that brings together trans adults up to age 25 and kids as young as 14 to discuss gender and sexuality. It provides a safe and supportive space for young individuals to explore their own identities and connect with older LGBT individuals. By fostering dialogue and community, this program has the potential to make a profound impact on the lives of its participants and promote acceptance and understanding in society.
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