Youth Gender Journeys (YGJ) in Peel Group

Youth Gender Journeys in Peel is a 12-week closed support group for Youth who identify as trans, non-binary, and/or gender non-conforming. Under the guidance of a trans-identified facilitator from the Youth Beyond Barriers program, this group aims to provide gender-diverse youth a safer space to explore their unique identities and lived experiences. Weekly topics will include self-identity, coming out, navigating discrimination, transitioning, etc., and incorporate open discussion, education, art, and the sharing of coping strategies within the group space. Every 4th week will feature a Parent/Caregiver night (separate group), wherein parents and caregivers of gender-diverse youth can learn and share strategies to better support their loved ones.

Goals of the Program:

• To provide support, education, external resources, and practical coping strategies regarding a range of issues relevant to transgender and gender-diverse youth and their caregivers, led by a trans-identified facilitator.
• To provide an inclusive space for transgender and gender-diverse youth to share their experiences and discuss issues that matter to them.
• To bring together caregivers of transgender and gender-diverse youth once every 4 weeks, while providing an inclusive space for them to share relevant experiences and receive practical tools to better support their loved ones.

Inclusionary Criteria:

• Youth residing in Peel
• Youth aged 12-17 years
• Youth who identify as trans or gender-diverse
• Youth who are exploring their identity and expression

Exclusionary Criteria:

• Youth who are actively suicidal, homicidal or in need of immediate crisis stabilization
• When the safety of the worker cannot be ensured

Referral Sources:

• Self referrals
• School Boards
• Community Agencies
• Internal transfers from AYSP Programs and partner agencies

Referral Process:

Community partners, youth and caregivers can contact the AYSP’s Youth Intake Specialist at 905.890.5222. The YGJ Group can also be accessed by calling 1.800.762.8377 (toll free), or by e-mail at ybb@aysp.ca.

Youth and caregivers can also make a self-referral by calling Wheretostart.ca at 905.451.4655. Partner agencies and AYSP staff working with clients who meet eligibility requirements can make a referral to the YGJ Program via the Internal Transfer Protocol.