Grounded in the Jewish prophetic value of pikuach nefesh, JQ offers virtual monthly drop-in support groups for LGBTQ+ Jews and allies. Led by skilled and passionate facilitators, these groups are psychoeducational and provide guidance, education, and support on various issues. Participation in these support groups is not based on a mental health diagnosis. Health insurance will not be billed, and the registration fee is based on ability to pay. RSVP is required to attend. Please direct questions to JQ’s Director of Support and Wellness, Emily Abraham, [email protected].
Transgender and Nonbinary Adults: This group is open to transgender, nonbinary, or gender questioning people ages 18+. The group provides support to discuss changes in perceived identities, shifts in feeling a part of an LGBTQ or straight community, changes in sexual intimacy and comfort around bodies changing, conversations about medical and nonmedical transition, sadness or fear, and a gathering of resources for continued support. Facilitated by Michael Levine, AMFT 124078, and supervised by Mastaneh Moghadam, LCSW 23095
Parents of Gender Diverse Youth & Young Adults: This group provides support and information for Jewish parents and caregivers from a behavioral health provider. It gives a space to ask questions or voice any concerns they have. No matter your level of transliteracy, you can get support and information and process thoughts and emotions that might not feel comfortable or appropriate to talk about with the trans and gender diverse young people in their lives. Facilitated by Jordan Held, LCSW
Supporting a Partner through Gender Transition: A monthly drop-in group for non-trans (cisgender) people in an intimate relationship with a transgender/ nonbinary person. Relationship meaning: long-term, dating, casual, open, poly, monogamous, etc. The group will provide a space for non-judgmental and uninhibited conversation, support, and resources. Facilitated by Shana Gee-Cohen, MSW
Iranian LGBTQ+ Adults: This group is open to Jewish Iranian LGBTQ+ and questioning people ages 18+. The group provides confidential support to discuss culturally sensitive coming out issues, an opportunity to meet other LGBTQ+ Iranian individuals, and a gathering of resources for continued support. Facilitated by Mastaneh Mohagdam, LCSW
Family and Friends: This group provides support and information for Jewish friends, family, loved ones, and allies of the LGBTQ+ community. It is for ages 18+ and is led by a mental health clinician. The group aims to be a warm, welcoming and confidential space to meet others, process emotions, ask questions, and gather supportive resources. Facilitated by Emily Abraham, ACSW 94903 and supervised by Kelsey Smith, LCSW 75954
Queer Teens: This is a mental health group for Jewish LGBTQ+ teens to discuss issues surrounding mental health, stress management, social relationships, identity development, and more. Parental consent is required to attend. Participants must live in California to attend, and the group is facilitated by a mental health practitioner. This group is in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles. Facilitated by Emily Abraham, ACSW 94903 and supervised by Kelsey Smith, LCSW 75954