Online Trans support group?

[Linus]

I'm curious if others would be interested in setting an evening aside each week for a support group for us, whether MTF or FTM? (kinda like an online support group) Part of me is thinking that this might be beneficial, especially for those that don't have support groups in their own area (town too small or whatever).

If this is of interest to you, let me know here or via PM the following:

- Yes/No
- text chat/voice chat
- password protected and limited entry/open to anyone to join (I'm thinking password protected for privacy sake)

[Logicaly]

I think this is a great idea and I would love to be involved! I am struggling to get into a local group for support (with my being so shy and having social anxiety it is hard), that any type of support group whether online or in person seems like a great idea to me!

I personally would feel more comfortable with a text chat rather then a voice chat.

As far as whether it is password protected or not, I am good either way.

[Dylan]

I'm curious if others would be interested in setting an evening aside each week for a support group for us, whether MTF or FTM? (kinda like an online support group) Part of me is thinking that this might be beneficial, especially for those that don't have support groups in their own area (town too small or whatever).

If this is of interest to you, let me know here or via PM the following:

- Yes/No
- text chat/voice chat
- password protected and limited entry/open to anyone to join (I'm thinking password protected for privacy sake)

Yes

Voice...I'm too often times read in a different way than intended

limited, but I don't understand who the 'anyone' would be (it really depends who the 'anyone' is...I don't want cisfolks involved)


Dylan

[Linus]

Dylan: what about male-ID'd butches?



To those reading: so far I've heard from 3 other FTMs (2 for regular chat and one for voice). Just bumping this to see if others are interested.

Also, is there a time/day that would work best for people?

[Dylan]

Dylan: what about male-ID'd butches?



To those reading: so far I've heard from 3 other FTMs (2 for regular chat and one for voice). Just bumping this to see if others are interested.

Also, is there a time/day that would work best for people?

Male ID'd butches would be included?

I would expect they would be included.


I Wonder Why So Many Chatters, And Not So Many Voicers,
Dylan

[Linus]

Male ID'd butches would be included?

I would expect they would be included.


I Wonder Why So Many Chatters, And Not So Many Voicers,
Dylan

Could be a preference thing. I like both options but personally find written chat easier in situations of cross talk. We could rotate between both forms if we get a full split.


And for reference for those that might be concerned about costs, Skype is a nice ***FREE*** option that I was thinking we could use for the conference (voice) portion if need be. Just need a headset or good speaker/mic combo.

[Rufusboi]

Yes, great idea. I'm looking for a local group in town but not finding much here.

Rufus

[owen4u1904]

I am totally up for this, whether it is voice chat/txt chat. I work evenings so if I have off I will def do it. As for privacy...I like the idea of having a password because some things I talk about might be really personal and I do not want everyone knowing about it. So yea, let me know what happens. :)

[Andrew, Jr.]

I would be interested in this as long as a password was used.

[Linus]

*bump* Just in case anyone didn't see this who wants to join in.

[T D]

I'm in. Thanks Linus.

[Linus]

I'm in. Thanks Linus.



Do you have a preference to online or voice chat?

[T D]

Do you have a preference to online or voice chat?

Well since my :dog: ate my headset, online would work best for me until I can get another set. Other than that I'm up for either.

Does anyone know if Skype can do conference calls? Just a thought.

[Linus]

Well since my :dog: ate my headset, online would work best for me until I can get another set. Other than that I'm up for either.

Does anyone know if Skype can do conference calls? Just a thought.



It can. I've done it. ;)

[Linus]

Ok. So final question: What date/time (give timezone) would work best?

I think it may be best to start using a room in our chat for now as it may be easier for some. What I'd like to do, eventually, is rotate each week between online chat and voice conference call (using Skype's conferencing feature).

[Linus]

And for those unaware, Skype (you can find it here: http://www.skype.com/intl/en-us/home/ ) is a free online method of calling other people using either just voice (think telephone but with headphones and mic) and/or video (if you have a webcam and your internet speed/computer is fast enough)

[PapaC]

Sure, I'm in.

chat preferred. voice optional.

[Corkey]

Question?? Are Male ID'd welcomed? Don't think it has been answered.
Thanks ahead of time.

[Linus]

Question?? Are Male ID'd welcomed? Don't think it has been answered.
Thanks ahead of time.


I see no reason why not but I'll leave that for the group of those who have replied.

[Corkey]

I see no reason why not but I'll leave that for the group of those who have replied.

Thanks Linus, I'll wait for the rest to weigh in, I'm all for space if that is what is needed.

[Logicaly]

I'm totally cool with male ID'd.

In regards to time. If its weekday, any time from 6:30pm and on. If its a weekend, any time from 1pm on. I am in the PST.

[Linus]

Ok. So I've been thinking about this and what I'd like to do -- to start off -- is schedule two meetings a week to start off with. This will help those that cannot attend one (due to timezones) perhaps be able to attend others. So I offer these as options:

Mondays: 9pm EDT (this means 8pm CDT/7pm MDT/6pm PDT)
Saturdays: 10pm EDT (this means 9pm CDT/8pm MDT/7pm PDT)

I choose the Saturday because there are a couple of Aussie guys who contacted me and this would work out to 10am Sunday their time. :)

Later, I'd like to offer a voice-conference option once a month. This requires a bit of coordination and further instructions on how to use something like Skype (free online phone options).

Also, a few rules (if you have others to add please add them to this thread). I'm including the ones that were common when I participated in the NYC Gender Identity Projects support groups. I found them to be effective as guidelines:

1. What is said the in the support group, stays in the support group.
2. Speak from the "I/me".
3. Step up, step back (if you've talked a lot, step back to let others speak; if you haven't said alot, step up and speak)
4. Before changing a topic ask first.
5. Remember that not all discussions require feedback. Sometimes people just want to rant. Ask first if someone wants feedback about something. And if you are talking, indicate if it's a rant or want feedback
6. Try to be on time. Coming in late can disrupt if someone is talking about something.

Add others as you feel would help. If you have questions/concerns, do not hesitate to contact me or post them here. If you have topics for discussion, please forward them to me and I'll add them to my "magic bag" (if we run out of discussions, I'll yank one out and start a discussion on that :cheesy: )

ETA: PM me for the password. This will only be sent to FTMs/male-identified butches. This will not be sent to SOFFAs/Allies.

[Linus]

Oops! Knew I forgot something:

First meeting will be this Saturday, June 5.

The meeting will be using the Masculine-ID support room in the BFP chat area (join the chat and you'll see the room).

You'll be asked a password to enter.

[Andrew, Jr.]

Hi Linus,

Are you going to be sky-peing the group? Or is it still going to be online? Can you let me know the password, please. I most def. would love to join in.

Thank you for everything. My hat is off to you for this. :praying:

Love,
Andrew

[T D]

I can't make this Saturday, but will try to make others. Thanks for the coordination, Linus!!

[Liam]

Oops! Knew I forgot something:

First meeting will be this Saturday, June 5.

The meeting will be using the Masculine-ID support room in the BFP chat area (join the chat and you'll see the room).

You'll be asked a password to enter.

Have you selected a time when this will occur, Linus?

[Linus]

So I offer these as options:

Mondays: 9pm EDT (this means 8pm CDT/7pm MDT/6pm PDT)
Saturdays: 10pm EDT (this means 9pm CDT/8pm MDT/7pm PDT)

Have you selected a time when this will occur, Linus?


Does this help?

[Linus]

Ack! Sorry everyone. I'm doing an onsite (at customer site) training this week and my head has effectively turned to mush.

So I apologize for not being in the chatroom.

Next support meeting will be this Saturday June 12th at 10pm EDT and the one after will Monday June 14th at 9pm EDT. I'm off next week so I should be less brain drained.

[Linus]

Bump for tonight: Saturdays: 10pm EDT (this means 9pm CDT/8pm MDT/7pm PDT)

[atomiczombie]

Ugh I missed it again :( I keep forgetting!

[T D]

I'm thinkin Saturday evening really isn't a good time, but that's just me.

[Linus]

I'm thinkin Saturday evening really isn't a good time, but that's just me.



T D, I asked for dates. No one responded. So I picked two dates of the week that would be good, one Monday and the other Saturday.

If others would prefer a different date, I'm open to it.

[Sam]

i'm just reading this, maybe sunday evenings would be better before the workweek starts.

[Rufusboi]

Linus - I wanted to let you know I really appreciate the support group you have started.

I had a really good time talking to all of you last night. I hope the group gets bigger.

I do have one suggestion. I do not type fast, so I would like for us to somehow communicate live. Is there a way we can do this?

Any night is good for me, just let me know if you change the date and time. I will definitely be there.

Rufus

[Linus]

Linus - I wanted to let you know I really appreciate the support group you have started.

I had a really good time talking to all of you last night. I hope the group gets bigger.

I do have one suggestion. I do not type fast, so I would like for us to somehow communicate live. Is there a way we can do this?

Any night is good for me, just let me know if you change the date and time. I will definitely be there.

Rufus


I am looking into it. The reality is that to get a decent conference call option will potentially cost money. I'm trying to find a cheaper option. The challenge with conference call options is the risk of overtalking one another and that may result in additional frustrations.

Either way, I am looking into that option as well. I haven't really had a chance in the last 4 weeks due to work but since this week is an off week I should be able to focus on this a bit more.

[T D]

T D, I asked for dates. No one responded. So I picked two dates of the week that would be good, one Monday and the other Saturday.

If others would prefer a different date, I'm open to it.

I think that sometimes we don't know how something's going to work out until we try it. It may just be me too, but for some reason I cannot remember the Saturday evening chat to save my life.

I appreciate all the effort you have and continue to put into this, Linus!!

:cigar:

[Linus]

Bump for tonight: Mondays: 9pm EDT (this means 8pm CDT/7pm MDT/6pm PDT)

And the next one will be this Sunday (to see if more will come out on Sunday): Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I'll also suggest that instead of Monday next week, perhaps Tues/Wed mid-week may be a good 2nd date/time?

[Logicaly]

I was totally planning on being there tonight, but my work ran late and then I had to run errands when I got home. I am gonna try and be at the next one!

[atomiczombie]

Gah! I missed it again!

[The Oopster]

Just a suggestion ... maybe someone could be in charge of reminding those that are interested .... either a phone call or email or something.

I'm fortunate to have enough real time support and am generally busy at the times posted so am not participating myself, but thougth I'd throw out that suggestion.

[Rufusboi]

Is anyone attending the trans meeting tonight? I am there if you want to join me.

Rufus

[Rufusboi]

My bad. I did not realize it had been changed to Sunday.

Rufus

[Linus]

A reminder of tonight's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

[Rufusboi]

A reminder of tonight's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

Thanks for the update Linus. I will be there with bells on.:jester:

[Leigh]

Drats I'm going out tonight, otherwise I'd be there too!!

I'll attend the next one tho :)

[Linus]

**bumpity**

[Linus]

My apologies for not organizing a session during the week. I was swamped with work. As a reminder for this weekend there will be a session: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I know that Pride is happening in a variety of places so people may or may not be able to make it. I'll at least be there for those who do come. :)

Happy Pride everyone!

[Rufusboi]

My apologies for not organizing a session during the week. I was swamped with work. As a reminder for this weekend there will be a session: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I know that Pride is happening in a variety of places so people may or may not be able to make it. I'll at least be there for those who do come. :)

Happy Pride everyone!

Linus - Is the meeting on tonight?

Rufus

[Linus]

Linus - Is the meeting on tonight?

Rufus

Yup. 7 min from now. :)

[Leigh]

Anything tonight? :)

[alex k]

just found my way back here after months away. does this meeting still happen?

[EnderD_503]

Anything tonight? :)

Doesn't appear to be. Don't see anyone in the chat. Wondering if the meeting times have changed?

[Linus]

Sorry. I should have posted that I opted not to run it tonight because it is a holiday weekend. Next Sunday we will return at the regularly scheduled time :)

[Leigh]

Thanks for letting us know Linus :)

[Linus]

*bump*

Reminder for tomorrow's group meeting: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

[Leigh]

Glad to know its still on, I'll set a reminder for Myself to be online for it :)

[Linus]

*bump*

Reminder for tomorrow's group meeting: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)


*bumpity bump*

[Linus]

Hey guys,

I'm looking into a voice option and would greatly appreciate hearing from all of you as to what day of the week and what time (include timezone please) would work best. I want to get a 1-800 number that we could conference call on. It won't be in the next two weeks but may be towards the end of July. I'm hoping that'd give everyone enough of a chance to voice what day would work best for them. :)

[Jarrek]

Great idea Linus and would love to attend the group. Please let me know when the next one is being held and the password to enter? We need more positive cohesiveness for our brotherhood. "Leave no lone wolf behind!"

[Linus]

*bump*

Reminder for today's group meeting: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

[tuffboi29]

*grumbles*
I'm never late for dinner...


Sorry guys...I saw this earlier today and was going to attend.

Could someone please message me telling me when the next one is and the password?

Thanks in advance.

[atomiczombie]

I guess I missed it too.

[T D]

Well I didn't show up until almost 6, and the discussion when on until almost 7. Never hurts to check and see if someone's still there :)

[Jet]

Who, what, when, where, why and how?

[Stearns]

It'll be next Sunday at 8 (EST). I missed it by an hour tonight but, luckily, some of the guys were still hanging around.

[EnderD_503]

Unfortunately, couldn't make it out last night. By the time 7 o'clock rolled around I could barely keep my eyes open I was so exhausted. Tried to soldier on to 8 to make the meeting, but sleep won over. Sounds like it was a great meeting, though. Will definitely be there next week.

[Linus]

Ok.. I'd like to try something this weekend if others are interested. I'd like to try a conference call version of the support group about an hour before the online one. So.. This Sunday we will STILL have, in the chatroom (although I may move this from here), at 8pm EDT (7CDT/6MDT/5PDT) the online support.

An hour before this (7pm EDT/6CDT/5MDT/4PDT) I'd like to try an online conference support group (this is using a phone number or skype info). If you are interested in participating in the Voice version, please PM ME your phone # (DO NOT PLACE IT IN THIS THREAD).

[TenderKnight]

Awwww.. I work nights and weekends, lol.. Thanks for starting this up and keeping it going Linus and others.. If I'm able to make any of the chats, will get there :)

[Linus]

**BUMP**.. so far I've only had two indicate that they want to do voice (which is fine). If you are interested in participating in the voice option please contact me via PM.

[Linus]

*bumpity bump*

[Dylan]

Has the group been moved to another place yet? I haven't participated, because the chatroom is open to anyone (anyone has access), and I'm just not comfortable with that.

I'm sure you will, but if/when the group gets moved somewhere 'safer' (used loosely), please let me know.


Dylan

[Linus]

Reminder of that chat HERE (still) 8pm EDT (7CDT/6MDT/5PDT) for online support group. The voice option will not be this week. I'm burnt out from talking last week and I have a full talking week coming up. :P

Has the group been moved to another place yet? I haven't participated, because the chatroom is open to anyone (anyone has access), and I'm just not comfortable with that.

I'm sure you will, but if/when the group gets moved somewhere 'safer' (used loosely), please let me know.


Dylan

Haven't yet. I'm trying to find software that I can add to my personal site to hold the chat there. Between that and 60-80 hour weeks, it's been a slow go but I am still looking into something that I can host.

[Corkey]

[QUOTE=Linus;164921]Reminder of that chat HERE (still) 8pm EDT (7CDT/6MDT/5PDT) for online support group. The voice option will not be this week. I'm burnt out from talking last week and I have a full talking week coming up. :P


Tonight or Sunday night?

[Linus]

[QUOTE=Linus;164921]Reminder of that chat HERE (still) 8pm EDT (7CDT/6MDT/5PDT) for online support group. The voice option will not be this week. I'm burnt out from talking last week and I have a full talking week coming up. :P


Tonight or Sunday night?

Sunday. Sorry. Still burnt out from the week.

[atomiczombie]

Sundays are not the best day for me because those are the days I usually see my daughter.

[Linus]

Late reminder but a reminder for TONIGHT: 8pm EDT (7CDT/6MDT/5PDT)

Support group in the chatroom here.

[Jet]

is it okay if i come?
I didn't know i'd be welcomed
is this a men only chat room

[Liam]

is it okay if i come?
I didn't know i'd be welcomed

Of course you are welcome to join us! You don't even have to wear your favourite socks!! ;)

[Jet]

Of course you are welcome to join us! You don't even have to wear your favourite socks!! ;)

lol, you mean my red ones in that shot with my dad?

[Liam]

lol, you mean my red ones in that shot with my dad?

Yeppers, you said they were your favourites!

[PapaC]

Can I come with no socks and dirty feet?

[Linus]

Sure. There's no video. :)

[Jet]

Yeppers, you said they were your favourites!

God, I loved those socks and that blue sweatshirt and jeans. I was wearing KEDS tennis shoes. do you remember KEDS?

I posted a really funny story in Childhood Memories last night you,ll have to read it.

Meanwhile, is this men only chat?

[Linus]

God, I loved those socks and that blue sweatshirt and jeans. I was wearing KEDS tennis shoes. do you remember KEDS?

I posted a really funny story in Childhood Memories last night you,ll have to read it.

Meanwhile, is this men only chat?


Masculine identified butches and FTMs.

[Jet]

Masculine identified butches and FTMs.

That's what I mean.

[Linus]

**bumpity**

[Joe Mario]

Sure why not..
How ya doing, Linus buddy :hangloose:

[Linus]

Sure why not..
How ya doing, Linus buddy :hangloose:


Hey Joe! LTNS! Come and join us on Sunday for the support group! Doing well but getting slowly into panic mode as I finalize my moving stuff.

[Linus]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I may be late for it but shouldn't stop y'all from going ahead. :)

[Linus]

**bumpity** (for those who might be able to join tonight)

[Linus]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I may be late for it but shouldn't stop y'all from going ahead. :)


**bumpity for the guys**

[morningstar55]

mawning Tranzters and friends.........
came across a awsome site......... thought id share.
http://chazbono.net/forum.html

[Liam]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)



We will be meeting this evening.

[Liam]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

[Leigh]

Thanks for the reminder Liam, I'll be there :)

[atomiczombie]

Ok I am not seeing my kid tonight so I can actually make it!

[Linus]

Thank you so much, Liam, for taking this on during my absence this week and next. I'm hopeful I might be there for the next one but not sure.

[atomiczombie]

Anyone know if the meeting is gonna happen tonight?

[Liam]

Anyone know if the meeting is gonna happen tonight?

Its happening! See you there, I hope.

[Linus]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

***bumpily*** sorry for the late reminder. I know that many are enjoying the long weekend so if you cannot make it that's fine. Enjoy the last long weekend of the summer :cheesy:

[Linus]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)


I won't be there but for those that want to be. :)

[Leigh]

I'll be there :)

[EnderD_503]

Will very likely be there as well. See you guys tonight.

[Liam]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

bumpity bump bump!

[T D]

bumpity bump bump!

Darn, missed it again. :(

[atomiczombie]

I did too, but it was because I was with my kid. :)

[Leigh]

So are we meeting tonight or no? anyone know?

[Linus]

I won't be able to make it but I would imagine that someone will be there.

[Corkey]

I'll be there.:)

[Leigh]

Sweet, cuz I got good news to share with you guys :)

[sweetfemme247]

I know this isnt a thread for me but i was just wondering are you going to get your t shot friday.

[Tommi]

A Trans Health Screening Day event will be held at the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective (1841 Broad Street, Hartford, CT) on Saturday, Oct. 23.

"At the Health Collective, we understand the difficulties that many trans folks face in the health care system," a flier for the event read.

This special day, dedicated specifically to transgender, genderqueer, and gender nonconforming individuals, will include breast exams, HIV tests, pap tests. To schedule an appointment, please call Donna Shubrooks, RN, at (860) 278-4163 x13. Visit www.hglhc.org for more information.

[Linus]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I'm going to try to make it tomorrow but may be out hiking at Will Rogers Park.

[The Oopster]

A reminder for Sunday's group: Sunday: 8pm EDT (this means 7pm CDT/6pm MDT/5pm PDT)

I'm going to try to make it tomorrow but may be out hiking at Will Rogers Park.

Hey if you ever want to know about places in the angeles national forest I'm working there right now ... am slowly learning about spots ... actually pretty cool job am hoping monday after i pick up some counters work work to hang a bit with my dog at cobb estate which is just north of pasadena ... seems like a cool place was working there today but don't really get a chance to explore when i'm working but definitely want to check it ou

[Rufusboi]

Are we having a meeting tonight.

Rufusboi

[Leigh]

I'll be there so I hope so :)

[Linus]

I'll be around if the hotel will let me. :)

[EnderD_503]

Hey guys, I noticed the old room is still there. I haven't been in to check on Sundays since the group kinda dissolved a while back, but I remember we had some good times. Anyone still hang out?

[Corkey]

Hey guys, I noticed the old room is still there. I haven't been in to check on Sundays since the group kinda dissolved a while back, but I remember we had some good times. Anyone still hang out?

No one to hang out with.

[EnderD_503]

No one to hang out with.

Figured that was still the case. People should start hanging out again... lol

[Corkey]

Figured that was still the case. People should start hanging out again... lol


LOL I'm heading off to bed but yea, it's a thought

[Liam]

Hey guys, I noticed the old room is still there. I haven't been in to check on Sundays since the group kinda dissolved a while back, but I remember we had some good times. Anyone still hang out?

I spent four hours on the road yesterday to attend a group in real time. I was the only one who showed up. Fortunately the person monitoring the center just happened to be an FTM, so all was not lost; however with the price of gas, it was an expensive hour long chat.

[EnderD_503]

I spent four hours on the road yesterday to attend a group in real time. I was the only one who showed up. Fortunately the person monitoring the center just happened to be an FTM, so all was not lost; however with the price of gas, it was an expensive hour long chat.

Haha, wow that sucks.