Support Groups
We offer a number of peer-to-peer support groups aimed at building community and reducing feelings of isolation.
NEW! Queer Self-Compassion Workshop
Dates: Tuesdays, February 17, March 17, and April 21
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Location: The Diversity Center
Ages: 18+
RSVP here!
Join us for a 3-part self-compassion workshop to explore different components of self-compassion theory and practice through a queer/trans lens. Each session will build on the prior, so you are encouraged to attend all 3. Workshops will include experiential learning and group discussion. Walk away with tangible skills to apply in your day-to-day life and meet other LGBTQIA+ folks interested in self-compassion practice!
NEW! Trans/Queer Body Trust
Date: Fridays, Beginning March 13 - May 1
Time: 10:00-11:30 am
Ages: 18+
Note: A pre-screen with the facilitator is required.
RSVP: tinyurl.com/bodytrust
Looking for a breath of fresh air from the day-to-day narrative about bodies? Join with like-minded community members to challenge mainstream messages, explore ways to reclaim our bodies, and create authentic and sustainable self-care practices. The group is limited to 10 members to create a warm and comfortable environment. 15 minute phone pre-screen with a facilitator and the ability to attend all 8 sessions are both required.
NEW! Neurodivergent Support Circle
Date: Thursdays, Feb 26 -April 16 (8 weeks)
Time: 6:00-7:30 pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Ages: 18+
RSVP: tinyurl.com/tdcneurodiverse
This 8-week virtual group aims to provide an affirming, adaptive respite space for neurodivergent LGBTQ+ adults to connect and build community. Being queer and neurodivergent people, we are often expected to dim ourselves twice over, which can lead to burnout and disconnection from our sense of self. In this group, we will hold each other in all of our complexity and explore what it means to be our authentic selves in a neurotypical world. All forms of neurodivergence are welcome!
NEW! A+ Support Group
Date: Mondays, February 2 to March 23
Time: 7:30 - 8:30 pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Ages: 18+
RSVP here!
An 8-week support group for anyone who identifies under the asexual+ umbrella: ace, grey, demi, questioning, and more. Everyone is welcome! When we grow up being taught what love and relationships should look like, holding an ASpec identity can often feel confusing, frustrating, and lonely, even within queer spaces. Our goal is to make the space to connect, be there for each other, and explore what our identities mean to us. A+ support by and for A+ people!
Trans and Nonbinary Support Group
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 7:30 - 9:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Ages: 18+
Email tnbgroup@diversitycenter.org for more information and to sign up.
The Diversity Center's transgender and non-binary peer support group provides a supportive and interactive experience in a safe and brave space. This group is for people 18+ who identify on the spectrum of trans/nonbinary/agender/genderfluid and more. The group also welcomes those who want to explore their identity, but who may not need or want to classify themselves. All individuals are encouraged to explore their individual selves, without concern or pressure that the next step needs to be ‘transitioning,’ and without concern about fitting into other people's definitions.
QTBIPOC Peer Support Circle
Date: Tuesdays, February 10 and 24
Age: 18+
Email qtbipoc@diversitycenter.org for more information and to sign up.
This support and discussion group is for People of the Global Majority/ Black, Indigenous, People of Color, Ages 18+ who identify on the spectrum of lesbian/gay /bisexual /pansexual /queer /Two Spirit/intersex/asexual /trans /nonbinary /agender /genderfluid, any combination of the above and more. The group also welcomes those who want to explore their sexuality and/or gender identity, but who may not need or want to classify themselves. All individuals are encouraged to explore their individual selves, without concern or pressure that the next step need be ‘transitioning,’ and without concern about fitting into other people's definitions. Make up your own!
Grupo De Apoyo Mariposa de la Comunidad LGBTQ+
Date: Primer Jueves del Mes
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Location: Biblioteca Watsonville, 275 Main St STE 100, Watsonville
Age: 18+
No RSVP required.
¡Bienvenidos al Grupo De Apoyo Mariposa de la Comunidad LGBTQ+! ¿Tiene 18 años o más, se siente solo, sin apoyo? O quieres conocer a otros como tú. Lo encontraste. Aquí obtendrá recursos, apoyo, capacitaciones y tendrá nuevas conexiones en la comunidad.
Trans Masculine Support Group
Date: Second and Fourth Sundays of Each Month
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Ages: 18 +
Email transmascgroup@diversitycenter.org for more information and to sign up.
The Diversity Center Santa Cruz Trans* Masculine group meets every on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month via Zoom. This group offers peer support and social connections. All FTM, Transmen, masculine-spectrum, butch, boi, folks questioning their gender, etc. are welcome.
Femme TransFormation Support Group
Date: Weekly on Thursdays
Time: 6:00-7:30 pm
Location: The Diversity Center
Age: 18+
Email femmetransgrp@diversitycenter.org for more information and to sign up.
Being on the feminine or female side of the trans umbrella brings its own set of joys and challenges and the transition process each of us go through represents a true heroine’s journey. Whether you are relatively new to the call of transition, in the middle, or have completed transition and are negotiating the challenges of living fully as your authentic self, this group offers a space to celebrate each of our journeys, from the trials we face to the rewards we reap. This peer support group offers support and mentorship, especially at a time such as this.