Families in TRANSition

This project is designed to improve the mental health of transgender, non-binary and gender questioning (trans) youth (aged 13-24), by strengthening relationships with their caregivers/parents.

Families in TRANSition (FIT)

This project is designed to support organizations to improve the mental health of trans, Two-Spirit, nonbinary, and gender-exploring youth (aged 13-24), by strengthening relationships with their caregivers/parents. The intervention involves continuing to run our virtual 10-week-long support groups: one for youth and one for adults. The adult group is for parents/caregivers, and is aimed at increasing understanding of trans identity, the mental health impacts of transphobia and transmisogyny, identifying negative and rejecting parenting practices including micro-aggressions such as mis-gendering, as well as exploring behavioral strategies to promote secure attachment during the period of early transition. The youth group aims to improve mental health by increasing peer and parental support, providing coping skills to mitigate gender discrimination, and increasing knowledge and agency regarding social, legal and medical transitioning options. Now in phase 2, we are expanding the FIT program by offering training for partner organizations – including community hubs, health care centres, hospitals, children’s mental health agencies, and other groups and agencies – on how to run their own FIT-style groups and supports for parents/caregivers and youth. Our partnerships also include offerings of ongoing mentorship, evaluation tools and resources, and hands-on support from the CTYS FIT team including an invitation to join our national Families in TRANSition Community of Practice.

Lead organization: Central Toronto Youth Services

Location: Ontario


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Looking to get in touch with this project? Send an email to LeeAndra Miller (leeandra.miller@ctys.org) for more information.

 

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