September 2023 Newsletter
Hello Kaleidoscope Community!
We hope you all have settled back into the routines of back to school and are looking forward to a new season just around the corner! We had an amazing time at our end of summer Netflix Watch Party, and we are excited to keep things going with our Online Karaoke Night for LGBTQ Youth! We are also proud to introduce our newest LGBTQ+ therapist Jess Furrer who has just joined the Kaleidoscope team. Read more about her in the bio below!
In recognition of the many LGBTQ young people who are returning to school all across the country, our most recent blog post offers educators and school staff a variety of best practices in supporting this particular population of students and creating a more inclusive atmosphere for your entire school.
As always, we invite you to follow us on social media and keep current on our clubs and groups, as well as special events. Please comment, share, and tag your friends, as we celebrate all things LGBTQIA+ on Instagram @kaleidoscopelgbtq, and follow us on Facebook at KaleidoscopeLGBTQ.
Jay Baldwin
Program Navigator
They/Them
jbaldwin@thehelpgroup.org
Laurie Stephens, Ph.D. PSY 18520
Sr. Director, Autism & LGBTQ+ Programs
She/Her/Hers
lstephens@thehelpgroup.org
* For general inquiries, contact us at kaleidoscope@thehelpgroup.org
Going back to school can cause a variety of emotions for students, and LGBTQ+ students are no exception. Many queer and transgender young people have a particular set of challenges to navigate in school settings. With anti-LGBTQ+ legislation at an all-time high, the mental health impact of our LGBTQ+ students is even greater.
Join us in welcoming our newest therapist, Jess Furrer (she/her)! Jess is a bilingual psychology intern in the Kaleidosocope Program under supervision of Dr. Priscilla Barajas. She is working towards her Ph.D. in School Psychology. She provides therapy services for children, teens, families, parents, and young adults. Jess has lived experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and enjoys providing services to other queer and neurodivergent folx. Her approach to therapy is highly collaborative and creative. Jess is passionate about utilizing clients’ unique identities, strengths, and interests to build skills and reach their goals. She provides both virtual and in-office therapy services as well as services in Spanish.
Upcoming LGBTQIA+ Events, Services & More
Online Karaoke Night
September 22 | 6 – 7:30 pm PT
Via Online (Zoom link emailed day of event)
For LGTQ+ youth ages 12-17. Are you ready to show off your singing skills from the comfort of your own home? Then this event is perfect for you! Grab your microphone and get ready to sing your heart out with friends and fellow karaoke enthusiasts.
Mental Health Services
Kaleidoscope offers individual & group therapy as well as psychiatric care in a safe & affirming environment at affordable rates. We accept insurance, Medi-cal, and offer sliding-scale rates based upon annual income. Contact us to learn more.
Individual Coaching
Coaching available for LGBTQIA+ youth & young adults who need assistance with identifying goals, taking next steps, & establishing healthy connections in community settings. Contact us to learn more.
Training & Presentations
We offer training, education & presentations to parents, administrators, and the community to provide LGBTQIA+ youth with the affirming support that they need to thrive. Contact us to learn more.
More Stuff
In Case You Missed It
Unlocking Opportunities For Neurodiverse Young Adults
ABOUT KALEIDOSCOPE:
Kaleidoscope’s mission is to provide services and supports for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults to help each person realize their unique and full potential. We focus on mental health services, family training and support, forming strong social connections, finding allies and developing critically needed life and coping skills. Kaleidoscope hopes to pave the way to self, family and community acceptance, resilience and care needed for LGBTQ+ folks to thrive.
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