TABLE OF CONTENTS


What are Support Groups?

Plume support groups are safe, peer-supported spaces for you to form connections and work through questions about identity and transition. The groups are intimate and create a safe, cozy space to work through some of your big questions. Support groups are exclusively available to Plume members. 


During each series, your group will discuss a range of topics to give you a deeper understanding of yourself, your journey, and who you want to be. The series is a great opportunity to build lasting relationships with fellow group members. Possible topics include: 

  • Changes to expect from gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT)

  • Finding the courage to express your gender identity

  • Exploring and becoming confident with you gender expression

  • Coping with relationship changes while transitioning

  • Celebrating the magic of joy and euphoria

  • Finding and building community

  • Healthy ways to love yourself through your changes


How do Support Groups work?

When trans people come together to form community and share our experiences, powerful change is possible. Feeling connected and socially supported by the trans and non-binary community can positively impact trans folks by improving psychological well-being, facilitating resilience, and working against external stigmatization, prejudice, and discrimination. Plume support groups are safe, peer-supported spaces for you to work through the questions you have about your identity, your self-care, and your life decisions. 


Each of your group’s sessions will be guided by a Plume-trained facilitator from our community who is trans or nonbinary. Each group will consist of people who have experiences in common with you, such as people also taking estrogen or testosterone, or folks who are nonbinary.

The groups meet on Zoom at the same day and time each week for six weeks.


How do I sign up?

Step 1 — Log into the Plume Community Hub and navigate to the “Support Group” space

Step 2 — Choose a support group that aligns with your needs, goals, and availability. Select RSVP

Step 3 — You will receive a follow-up email with calendar invitations & a Zoom link.

Step 4 — Once you select a start date, you will meet with your support group at the same day and time each week for a total of six sessions.


How are support groups facilitated? 

Each of your group’s sessions will be guided by a trauma-informed, Plume-trained facilitator from our community who is trans or nonbinary.  Each group consists of community members who have experiences in common with you, such as people also taking estrogen or testosterone and more.  Each group meets on Zoom at the same day and time each week.

Your Plume membership gives you access to a six-week series of support groups, guided by a trauma-informed trans facilitator, so you can connect with fellow community members and gain support for wherever you are on your journey.


Am I required to interact (mic on/camera on) during the group?

You will likely get more from the group if you engage with the conversation with your voice and video, but it is absolutely not required. You can do whatever makes you feel most comfortable. (Feel free to message your group facilitator if you need to leave your mic or camera off.) Some people prefer to interact via the chat feature, while others like to connect face-to-face.


How do I attend? 

After scheduling your first session, you will receive a confirmation email and calendar invitation with a Zoom link. All you have to do is click on the Zoom link at the time of your scheduled session.


I signed up for a group but want to switch to another.
If you want to change groups, email [email protected] for assistance.


I cannot make my scheduled group, what do I do?

Nothing! If you cannot make your scheduled group, you do not have to do anything or notify us. You may always simply join the other sessions moving forward. 


Who can participate?

Support groups are included in your Plume membership. They are open to any Plume member. Support groups are optional, but we encourage you to try them! Once you register for a group, you’ll spend six weeks learning more about yourself, building community, and deepening your understanding of your gender. When you sign up, choose the group that interests you most. Some of our affinity groups include:

  • Estrogen (E+)

  • Testosterone (T)

  • Non-binary

  • More to come!


What if I have additional questions or concerns?

If you are a Plume member, please reach out to your care team in Spruce if you have any questions, concerns, or issues related to your support group. We welcome your feedback and suggestions. For non-members interested in learning more about support groups, please contact [email protected] with your questions. 


What are people saying about Support Groups? 

"It was amazing. I think we were all nervous at the start and by time it ended we all had a new confidence within us.”

"This was so much fun, so glad to meet other trans people.”

"This group program is really awesome! It is great to be able to meet with others that can relate to your own issue and have fun doing it. Look forward to the next meeting"