I thought it might be worth it to mention that last night I attended a sort of group therapy/discussion program at a local support group. It was so incredibly helpful in every way; I've never been a group discussion meeting before and felt so refreshed after I left. The social worker, whom I've known for a while but to whom I felt considerably closer after this meeting was over, showed me that she honestly cared for my personal health, safety, and confidence. I felt like a real person, not a freak, and that I mattered to other people. And it was nice to know that others struggle with some of the same problems I do. Of course, it's easy to understand that others are out there feeling the same way, but something else entirely to be exposed to it in conversation. Anyway, I thought I would throw this out there so that you guys might give it a shot if you'd ever considered it before. I was surprised by how much I benefited from a single meeting, especially because I almost always prefer to be alone and am pretty much a hardcore introvert.
Sounds good! Can I ask, how did you find this group? Was it a drop-in or sign-up type of thing? How was it billed? Geared to specific sub-section or general non-hetero "audience"? Did everyone contribute? Was it similar to a live experience of EC? Oops. Lots of questions. Any answers are appreciated.
No problem! Sorry I didn't specify more. The meeting took place at a drop-in center and was completely free. Yes, everyone contributed; there were only a few individuals at this particular gathering. The meetings take place once a week and are intended specifically for LGBT youth ages 13-23. I was told last night that it was originally meant to help with the coming-out process, but now covers a broad range of topics. I would absolutely agree that it was like a face-to-face version of EC.