Parent Support Group

This weekly group for the parents & caregivers of trans adolescents seeks to create a safe space where members can process their experience together while building a network of support. Guided by two experienced facilitators, this group seeks to provide a caring container in which parents can connect, share wisdom and resources, and build community together.

Group Description

This is a safe and supportive space for parents to show up in all their humanness, vulnerability, and imperfection. As facilitators, we are here to be your support and meet you where you're at with care, acceptance, understanding, and non-judgment. We are also here to facilitate group discussions that promote connection and help parents feel less isolated.

Common topics that may be discussed:

  • Using new names and pronouns

  • Grief

  • Worries and fears about the future

  • Supporting your teen’s mental health

  • Medical transition

  • Social and political messaging

  • Navigating relationships with unsupportive family and friends

  • Marginalization and discrimination

  • Unpacking transphobia and unconscious bias

  • Ways to strengthen your relationship with your child

  • Celebrating the gifts of having a trans person in your life

Group Details

  • This group meets weekly on Mondays from 5:30-7pm

  • The next cohort will begin on May 12 and runs for 8 weeks

  • Our meeting space is 4531 SE Belmont St.

  • This group has space for 8-10 members per cycle

  • The fee for this group is $55 per session or free with OHP.

About the Facilitators

Madison Unsworth, LPC (she/her)

Madison works in private practice with a passion for supporting queer and trans young adults. She believes that supporting trans young people also includes supporting their families and communities. Madison is a white, queer, cisgender woman and is excited to be in community with those hoping to learn, build connection, and support each other and their transgender loved ones. Madison has four years clinical experience working with transgender young people, as a parent educator, and as a group facilitator. In her free time, Madison likes to hike with her dog and partner, read terrible fantasy novels, garden, and cook.

Shanako DeVoll, LCSW (they/them)

Shanako Devoll is a trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals through affirming, body-based healing. They are the practice owner of Healing Tide Counseling and an active member of the Trans Youth Care Collective.

As a queer, non-binary parent and clinician, Shanako is passionate about community care, connection, and resilience. In their free time, they find joy in spirituality, long-distance backpacking, gardening, and being near water.

Get in touch.

If you are interested in this group or would like to learn more, I would love to hear from you! Please share briefly about who you are, any questions you have, and what is motivating you to reach out for support.

Looking forward to hearing from you!