This list is a non-exhaustive collection of resources, teachers, and organizations that offer mindfulness training and support by and for LGBTQ+ folks. This is a list we hope to continuously develop so if you know of an organization or person who should be on this list, please reach out to us on social media or at [email protected].
Mindfulness Organizations and Programs for the LGBTQ+ Community
1. CHA Center for Mindfulness and Compassion
The Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) for Mindfulness and Compassion focuses on enhancing health and well-being by integrating various mindfulness practices into healthcare and communities. They regularly offer mindfulness workshops and classes specifically for people who identify as LGBTQ+.
2. Family Equality
Family Equality works to advance lived and legal equality for LGBTQ+ families. They offer a multitude of resources, educational tools, and activities. Head to their Youtube channel for free, LGBTQ+-centered guided meditations.
3) imi
imi is a free digital mental health tool designed with the help of LGBTQ+ teens to support and affirm their identity. The program was developed in response to the need for safe, accessible, and research-backed support for LGBTQ+ teens and breaks down important topics like stress, LGBTQ+ identity, internalized stigma, and gender identity and expression through interactive resources, stories, and activities.
4) InsightLA
Insight LA is a nonprofit meditation community offering classes, retreats, and events for meditators at every level of practice. When it comes to support specifically for the LGBTQ+ community, they offer two regular classes: LGBTQueer+ Mindfulness InsightLA invites all those who identify as LGBTQ+ to practice mindfulness together. This is an opportunity to explore and share your experiences within a supportive community. Each meeting includes a guided meditation and opportunities for group discussion. Mindful movement, a short talk, and/or small breakout groups are also included, on occasion. Mindful Transitions: For the Transgender/NB/GNC Community This is an opportunity for people who identify as transgender/gender non-conforming/non-binary to practice meditation together, build community, and explore the experience of transition. The format includes a lightly guided meditation, opportunities to share both the challenges and the celebrations of your gender journey, in larger group discussion and/or in small groups.
5) MindOut UK
MindOut is a UK-based mental health organization that is run by and for the LGBTQ+ community. Their website offers support and training resources. Their Wellbeing Workshops and Events calendar includes a mix of online and in-person options on topics like change and resilience, coming out, and intrusive thoughts.
6) Rainbow Mind
Rainbow Mind offers non-jugdmental support and safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in the Hackney, Waltham Forest, London, and Manchester. Some of their services include free courses and 1-2-1 therapeutic support to build emotional strength, monthly mind and body sessions exploring wellness through body-focused work, and community building gatherings–all designed specifically for LGBTQ+ community members. To find out more about Rainbow Mind, email [email protected].
Mindfulness Teachers Who Specialize in Working with the LGBTQ+ Community
The Mindful Directory, a collaboration with mindful.org, is a global platform where mindfulness professionals and training organizations share their details and display event information. On the Directory you will find a range of meditation courses, retreats, and teachers. Below are some teachers who specialize in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+.
1) Susan Walsh
Susan is a registered mindfulness teacher who specializes in working with LGBTQ+ folks. They’re openly non-binary and say that mindfulness, “helped me to quiet my mind, change my relationship with my body and develop a sense of inner peace. I soon realized I could live with more ease than I ever imagined. I learned to love myself exactly as the queer person I am.”
2) Robert Hawkes
Robert is a registered mindfulness teacher trained by The Mindfulness Network and The Mindfulness Association. He is based in the UK and identifies as Queer. With over 32 years of experience in client care, he has held a variety of positions over the years, and mindfulness training is one of the services he offers.
3) Dr. Stacee Reicherzer
Dr. Stacee is the Chicago-based transgender author of The Healing Otherness Handbook: Overcome the Trauma of Identity-Based Bullying and Find Power in Your Difference. She’s a psychologist who works with a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy framework. Find out more about how she uses mindfulness to help people find healing and self-compassion here. Find some of her guided audio meditations here.
4) Michelle Sciarappa
Michelle is a non-binary pansexual yoga and meditation teacher based in Nashville. They aim to provide “a safer, intentional yoga option for and by the LGBTQ+ community.” You can find some of their guided practices on InsightTimer.
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