Family Support
Transgender Support Groups
The transgender community, including both binary and nonbinary individuals, can experience significant stress moving through a world that treats being cisgender as the norm, lacks understanding about what it means to be trans, and mistreats individuals who do not fit into this “norm.” Being misgendered (having people refer to you as the incorrect gender or with incorrect pronouns) can lead to psychological distress, but having other people to talk to can make a big difference in your ability to cope. UCS Healthcare is here to help.
UCS Healthcare Offers Free Transgender Support Groups
Open to all transgender, queer, non-binary, gender-diverse individuals. Whether you're just beginning your journey or somewhere beyond, join us! Allies in direct support of transgender members are welcome. Meetings are led by UCS Healthcare professionals and our community partners to create a safe, educational environment.
Meetings are held twice a month at UCS Healthcare and are available in a hybrid format - both in person and on Zoom - for people who reside in Iowa. For questions and accommodations, email support@ucsdsm.org or call 515-280-3860.
Individuals, parents, and professionals can greatly benefit from the personalized one-on-one support and education services. Through individual consultations tailored to their unique needs, individuals seeking support for various issues related to gender diversity can receive guidance and assistance. Parents of transgender individuals can avail themselves of expert advice and troubleshooting support to navigate challenges and provide the best possible care for their child.
Professionals can undergo specialized training to enhance their understanding of gender diversity and learn how to offer inclusive and affirming services to the LGBTQ+ community.
By addressing topics such as workplace considerations, finding knowledgeable providers, and establishing support groups, these services offer valuable assistance to those in need of guidance and support in matters related to gender identity and transition. Additionally, support is available for family members and friends of transgender individuals, fostering understanding and creating a supportive environment for their loved ones.
For Adults 18+
Held the first 3 Tuesdays of the Month.
For Teens Under 18
Held the first 3 Tuesdays of the Month, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Click here to view a printable pdf flier.
**If an adult is dropping a youth off for group, the adult MUST be back to pick up the youth at 7:20 p.m. as UCS Healthcare closes at 7:30 p.m
For Parents & Partners
This group is for parents of transgender people of any age and partners of transgender people. Held the first 3 Tuesdays of the Month, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. (at the same time as the teen group, held in a different room) Click here to view a printable pdf flier.
UCS Healthcare has won recognition and awards for our Transgender Support Groups. To take part, call 515-280-3860 or email support@ucshealthcare.org
UCS Healthcare offers a wide range of services beyond our support groups. These services include:
Full family medical care
LGBTQIA+ health care
Treatment for acute and chronic illnesses
Immunizations
Physicals
Preventative care
Substance Use Disorder treatment
Psychiatric care
Mental health counseling and psychotherapy
Medication assisted treatment for opiate and alcohol abuse disorders.
Most insurance is accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare, when services are covered. Financial assistance and grants may be available for care.