Flourish: LGBTQ+ BIPOC Collective is a group created to bring together folks who hold both LGBTQ+ and BIPOC identities. Our goal is to build a warm, supportive space where you can share your experiences, connect with others, and celebrate the beautiful complexity of who you are. This group is all about fostering a sense of community, where we can explore our identities, find strength in each other, and navigate both personal and societal challenges. You’ll have the chance to validate your own experiences, learn tools for resilience and community building, while fostering meaningful connections that help you feel seen and supported. Ultimately, we want to create a space where everyone can feel affirmed and empowered on their journey toward authenticity. We’ll explore topics like the intersection of race and sexuality, the challenges of racism within queer spaces, and how we can find support and strength in the LGBTQ+ BIPOC community.
- Dates: March 17th – May 12th
- Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
- Number of sessions: 9
- Format: Virtual
- For: Individuals & Age 18+
- Insurance accepted: Kaiser, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Providence
- Out of pocket cost: $15 per session
Group Overview
Phase 1: Foundation and Connection
Introduction to group norms and dive into the concept of intersectionality, exploring how our LGBTQ+ and BIPOC identities shape our experiences. Opportunity to explore self-reflection and open sharing, building connections among group members.
- Session 1: Introduction & Building Trust
- Session 2: Intersectionality and Identity Exploration
Phase 2: Healing & Self Discovery
Explore internalized oppression, while also fostering practices of self-compassion and self-acceptance. Group members will examine how societal expectations have shaped their self-worth and learn tools to challenge negative beliefs. There will be an emphasis on the importance of nurturing your sense of self, learning to care for yourself in the face of external challenges.
- Session 3: Internalized Oppression & Healing
- Session 4: Navigating Family and Community Expectations
- Session 5: Cultivating Self-Compassion
Phase 3: Strengthening Community & Support
Explore mental health challenges specific to BIPOC LGBTQ+ individuals and develop strategies for emotional well-being. We’ll also explore how to create and strengthen support networks that affirm our identities and provide a sense of belonging. There will be opportunities to cultivate supportive relationships and learn how to maintain them outside of the group.
- Session 6: Mental Health & Emotional Resilience
- Session 7: Building Community & Support Systems
Phase 4: Celebrating and Moving Forward
Celebrate the strength and beauty of our intersectional identities. We will recognize personal growth, reaffirm confidence and value in both LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC identities, and set intentions for the future. We’ll wrap up the group by reflecting on the journey, celebrating each member’s progress, and honoring the connections formed during our time together.
- Session 8: Celebrating Intersectionality and Identity
- Session 9: Reflection, Closure and Moving Forward
Facilitators
Nat La
My name is Nat (they/them), a counseling intern at Sakura Counseling, where I work with individuals while also holding a strong belief in the power of collective healing. I’m passionate about creating a space where people with similar identities and experiences, particularly those who are both Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and LGBTQIA+, can come together to heal, be seen, and cultivate a sense of community. I believe that by sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create meaningful opportunities for growth and connection. Together, I hope we can nurture community, honor our journeys, and support each other through the complexities of our identities and experiences.
Kate Hernandez
My name is Kate Hernandez (she/her), I am a counseling student intern at Sakura Counseling. I am a first generation graduate student, growing up english was not my first language and I have lived experience on how being a marginalized individual has impacted my life. I believe every experience has a unique story of its own and it can be so empowering to hear and support others in their experience.
Outside of counseling, I am an adventurer! I love walking in nature, walking my dog named Bourbon, and being social with friends. And I try to stay active by doing CrossFit, I love being in community.
I am excited to collaborate with other individuals that can learn from others in a group setting. I am looking forward to building a community that reflects on shared values and goals.