LGBTQ+ Social Groups: These groups are for anyone ages 16-24, who fall under the LGBTQ+ umbrella living with a disability and/or chronic condition looking to find a place of support in navigating the challenges that come with being LGBTQ+, having a chronic condition, and the intersections of those identities. Facilitated by Denise Archilla, MSW, Illness Coach/Patient Advocate/Founder/She/Her and Alex Strang, CWC Ambassador/He/They.
Chronic Warrior Coaching brings together small groups of 7-10 people living with chronic illness, rare disease, and/or disability to connect and find support with peers who “get” them. Groups are NOT illness or disease specific, however, may be determined by interest, location, and other common factors.
You'll enjoy:
- An environment where you are seen, heard, and encouraged to be your authentic selves
- A safe and inclusive environment
- Knowledgeable and Welcoming Facilitators
- A focus on support, problem-solving, and community connections
Chronic Warrior Coaching is for people who are going through the typical challenges of someone living with chronic illness, rare disease, or disability, but who may not need therapy or counseling right now. For those already seeing a mental health professional, Chronic Warrior Coaching can be a great partner in care and a place to practice new skills and techniques. (However, coaching is a non-clinical approach not meant to be a replacement for mental health counseling or therapy.)
Overview of a Typical Session
- Introduction of names and pronouns
- We’ll start the group with humor, gratitude, and the occasional LGBTQ+ pop-culture reference!
- Members check-in with each others’ feelings and any significant experiences that have impacted them recently
- We close the session by highlighting important lessons, aha moments, and anything you may feel you’ll carry into the coming week that you want to work on or recognize.
- Final reminder to “find your joy” even in the smallest ways in the week ahead!
Your commitment:
- Make every effort to attend each week! (We know it’s not always easy with illness and, sometimes, just life in general, so please let us know if you can’t join so we know you’re ok and we’ll see you soon.)
- Respect all members' names and pronouns.
- Join as close to starting time as possible from a quiet and private space.
- Maintain the privacy of fellow group members and never share personal information or discussions from the group with others.
- Bring as much love and support as you expect to receive. (Sometimes you may need more than you’re able to give, but balance that by giving more than you need when able.)