Finding Belonging—Creating Queer-Affirming Community

Community is a protective factor for mental health. And for LGBTQIA+ people—especially those who don’t have a sense of belonging within their family or cultural spaces—finding affirming community is essential to healing.

Belonging is more than being around people. It’s about being in spaces where:

• Your name, pronouns, and boundaries are respected

• You feel seen without needing to code-switch or educate

• Your voice and body are not only welcome but valued

Building Your Queer-Affirming Village:

• Start online: Look for local queer mutual aid groups, online support spaces, and forums centered around your interests and identity

• Attend affirming events: Pride celebrations, queer film nights, book clubs, or healing circles can be a gateway to connection

• Seek out identity-specific spaces: There are growing communities for queer folks of color, disabled queer folks, trans elders, nonbinary youth, and more

• Let your therapist be part of that community care: A good therapist doesn’t replace community—but they can support you in finding and sustaining it

Healing happens in relationship—with others, with ourselves, and with a sense of safety. If you’ve never felt that kind of belonging before, it’s not too late to find it. You are worthy of it.

At ReAlign Wellness Group, we believe therapy is one piece of the village—and we’re here to help you build or rebuild a community that loves you exactly as you are.