I work with an agency who are developing a long term rehabilitation facility for people who are dealing with problems involving substance misuse. They are currently in the process of training an initial cadre of people in recovery oriented, person centered (ROPC) peer support. This group of people are all peers who are in active recovery from similar issues, and I have volunteered to give these trainees a Trans 101 presentation so they can be culturally competent in dealing with our community.
I was wondering if anyone here in Susan's Place would be willing to share any experience they may have had as a trans* person in a self-help, peer driven recovery group such as Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous (but it doesn't necessarily have to be a 12 step program, just one that is designed to help people with addiction issues.) How are trans people treated in such groups? Are you willing to share your experiences? Do you have any ideas how they could do it better than they did? If you have experienced recovery with the help of these groups, what did they do well? What did they do wrong?
I realize these questions are possibly intrusive and some of you may not be willing to publish what you've dealt with in the past. If that's the case I would be fine if you would PM me, either here in the forums or by email at emelye@susans.org We could even do it in a private chat channel, if that is what you feel comfortable with. As the admin, I can easily set one up in a few minutes. No matter how they are done, I sincerely pledge any communications I receive in that way will be held in strictest confidence.
Thank you!
hugs & smiles
HelenW
