Stigma Support Group

Presence-Led Healing for People Navigating Identity-Based Stigma

Stigma doesn’t just show up as shame about a diagnosis. It shows up in how we’re treated, how we carry ourselves, how we perform to belong, and how we shrink to stay safe.

If you’re navigating life with herpes and depression, queerness, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, masculinity, or any other part of your identity that’s been judged, rejected, or silenced—this space is for you.

We meet monthly to reconnect with ourselves through presence—not performance. This isn’t a place to be “fixed.” It’s a space to be witnessed.

You don’t need to justify your experience here. Whether you’re navigating the stigma of mental health, sexual identity, being a man, being neurodivergent, being in a nontraditional relationship structure, or simply feeling like you’ve had to hide a part of yourself—this is a space to just be.

What This Group Offers

  • A presence-based space to be seen and heard without judgment

  • Support for herpes stigma and other intersecting identity-based stigmas

  • Opportunities to share, reflect, journal, or just listen with your camera off

  • Guided prompts, light yoga or breathwork depending on the group’s energy

  • Language and facilitation that centers inclusion, safety, and identity validation

What This Group Is Not

  • A space only for people with herpes

  • Therapy or a crisis support group

  • A place to trauma bond

  • A place to perform, prove, or mask who you are

When & Where

First Monday of each month
7:30pm Central Time
Held on Zoom

Come as you are—no pressure to talk or be “on.” Just show up and let yourself exist in a space of shared presence.

Donations Welcome, Not Required

This group is hosted by me, Courtney Brame, certified yoga teacher and Yoga Therapist in training (completion 2026), founder of Something Positive for Positive People. Donations help sustain this offering, but they are never required. Everyone is welcome.

Why This Space Exists

SPFPP began in 2017 as a suicide prevention resource for people with herpes stigma. Over time, I realized it was never just about herpes. It was about identity, and the layers of shame people carry that make them feel like they don’t belong.

This group honors the intersections of our stigmas—not to dwell in them, but to practice presence and remember who we are beyond them.

If this doesn’t resonate with you, or if you're seeking a more herpes-focused space, I can point you to one. This offering is rooted in the belief that healing happens in inclusive presence.

Important Disclaimer

I am not a licensed mental health professional. This space is not a substitute for therapy. If you are in crisis or feel you may be in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1 or contact a licensed mental health professional.

Ready to Join?

→ Sign up for the newsletter below to receive reminders and the Zoom link for this group.