Struggling with your sexuality? Feeling confused? Need to talk to someone you can trust? Then consider the Sexuality Support Network (SSN).
This is a student-run group† that is open to anyone with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) issues. Whether it concerns you, a family member, or friend, someone will be there to help you.
The Sexuality Support Network was founded two years ago by Clint Steinbrunner í08. Steinbrunner, along with other members of the Sexuality Support Network wanted a network for queer persons on campus where they could feel free to discuss issues without fear of being judged.
This group consists of 10 individuals currently on campus who are willing to offer their services, including such persons as Nancy Anderson, Director of the Longbrake Student Wellness Center, and Mike Malmon-Berg, one of the counselors at the Wellness Center.
Other members of the group are currently off-campus but hope to return for the spring semester.
The co-coordinators for this group are Grace Hansen í10 and Val Spektor í10.
All counselors went through a training process to prepare them in various areas such as health, mental health, religion and transgender issues.
During their training, they conducted mock counseling sessions to help them relate to students even better. This shows that this group is serious about providing help to those in need.
ìPersons shouldnít feel that there is no one to talk to. There are kind, experienced and understanding people who are ready to help,” said Hansen.
There is not a general meeting time or place, but if you do decide that you would want to talk to someone about any problems regarding your sexuality or just need a listening ear, you can call the Wellness Center at ext. 2319 or visit them and ask for the Sexuality Support Network profile book. You will be led to a private room where you can view this book.
This book consists of profiles of the SSN members, a short history of their experiences and their specialized area in counseling. You can then choose who you would like to speak to and set up a meeting with that person.
The first meeting is usually held at the Wellness Center and then subsequent meetings can be held wherever one desires.
Hansen hopes that the group will become more known this school year, as it is a great resource. Few persons utilized this service and those who did were recommended by others.
Students are advised not to be afraid about opening up to the counselors. There is help if you need it. Hansen also stresses that there are strict guidelines about confidentiality. There will be no need to worry about anyone knowing your concerns.
The Sexuality Support Network is a fairly small group and has thus not yet been involved in many campus activities. However, the group was at Scot Spirit Day tabling. They hope that those who took pamphlets will actually reach out to them.
If you would like to become a counselor or learn more about this group or if you have any questions, you can email Hansen at ghansen10@wooster.edu. She will respond as quickly as possible.