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Associated Youth Services of Peel

Parent/Caregiver Beyond Barriers Group

The 6-session in-person or virtual group is for parents/caregivers of children and youth who identify as 2SLGBTQ+. The group provides parents and caregivers with the opportunity to develop an understanding of their child/youth’s sexual orientation and gender identity and learn ways to communicate effectively with and support their child/youth. Participants will have a safe and confidential space to discuss their own needs as parents/caregivers and learn resources in the Peel community for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and their families.

Goals of the Program:

  • Provide parents and caregivers with an opportunity to develop an understanding of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations and appropriate language for these communities
  • Assist parents/caregivers to build strong, healthy relationships with their children/youth
  • Help parents/caregivers develop strategies to support their child/youth effectively as they deal with issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity
  • Provide resources in the Peel community for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and their families

Inclusionary Criteria:

  • Parents/caregivers of 2SLGBTQ+ children/youth
  • Residents of Peel
  • Parents/caregivers who want to build strong, healthy relationships with their children/youth
  • Parents/caregivers who may want to explore/support their child/youth’s sexual orientation and gender identity
  • Parents/caregivers who are able to commit to actively participate in 6 weekly group sessions

Exclusionary Criteria:

  • Parents/caregivers who are actively suicidal, homicidal or in need of immediate crisis stabilization
  • When the safety of the facilitator and/or group members cannot be ensured

Referral Sources:

  • Self-referrals
  • Community Service Providers
  • Peel CAS
  • Peel School Boards
  • Hospitals
  • Youth Justice Services

Referral Process:

  • Parents/caregivers can make a self-referral by calling the AYSP Intake Specialist at 905.890.5222 or by contacting WhereToStart.ca at 905.451.4655
  • Partner organizations and AYSP staff working with clients who meet eligibility requirements can make a referral to the Parent/Caregiver Beyond Barriers Group via the Internal Transfer Protocol
  • Community partners or parents/caregivers can also inquire about the group via e-mail at ybb@aysp.ca.
  • The YBB Program Supervisor is available to answer any questions regarding the referral process or program criteria