Community & Creative Groups
Teen Groups | Adult Community Groups | Creative Collectives | Peer Support for Clinicians
Teen Processing and Art Group (TPAG) for LGBTQIA+ Teens in Nashville
Teen Processing and Art Group (TPAG) is a weekly processing and expressive arts group led by Payton, designed specifically for LGBTQIA+ teens in Nashville, TN. This group meets in person at our office on Monday nights at 6pm and centers connection, support, creative expression, and meaningful processing.
TPAG offers solid hangs, relational support, group discussion, and hands-on art and experiential activities in an affirming and inclusive environment. Art supplies, journals, and knitting needles, crochet hooks, and yarn (yes, you read that correctly) are provided for each group.
Payton leads every session, and the group also welcomes a monthly guest facilitator to explore specialty topics that support teen development and identity, including queer adulting, art therapy, finding yourself, dance therapy, queer resilience, psychodrama, and more.
The cost is $30 per week, or $300 total for the full 10-week group.
For more information or to inquire about registration, contact Payton at payton@authentic-growth.com.
Stitch & B*tch: a queer + trans skill and processing group in Nashville
Stitch & B*tch is a weekly, interactive skill and processing group for queer and trans adults in Nashville, TN who are looking for affirming community and connection. The group meets Thursdays at 6pm and is led by Payton.
This group offers a supportive space to come hang, meet some dope people, talk about what’s been bugging you, and learn practical coping and relational skills along the way. Stitch & B*tch blends conversation, shared activities, and processing in a way that centers queer and trans experiences while fostering connection, growth, and mutual support.
Teen Processing and Art Group (TPAG) for LGBTQIA+ Teens in Nashville
Altered Book Collective (ABC) is an art therapy–informed, bi-weekly group led by Lydia and designed for adults in Nashville, TN who are interested in creative experimentation with mixed media. In this group, we use altered books as a container for mixed media art, exploring self-expression and creativity in a supportive, relaxed, and community-oriented environment.
Each session includes simple, optional prompts to help you get started, but the overall vibe is intentionally loose and flexible. This group is a great fit for anyone who wants to experiment with art, process creatively, and build connection with others without pressure or expectation. No artistic experience is necessary, just bring your curiosity and an open mind.
While ABC is not exclusive to 2SLGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults, Lydia, as a member of both communities, has intentionally designed this group with these populations in mind, creating a space that feels affirming, accessible, and welcoming.
A variety of materials are provided, including a book to alter upon request.
The cost is $20 per session for 8 sessions (totaling $160).
For more information, contact Lydia at lydia@authentic-growth.com.
Open Studio for Clinicians (OSC): A Creative Peer Support Group in Nashville
Open Studio for Clinicians (OSC) is an art therapy–informed peer support and social group rooted in communal creativity as a form of self-care for people working in mental health related fields in Nashville, TN. This group is led by Lydia and meets on the first Sunday of each month for a 90-minute session focused on making art, decompressing, and recharging alongside peers in a supportive and relaxed environment.
OSC is not therapy. Instead, it is a space for clinicians and mental health professionals to engage in their own creative process, build connection with others in the field, and experience creativity as restorative practice.
A variety of art materials are provided, and participants are also welcome to bring current projects, tools, and/or their own supplies.
The cost is $20 per session for 6 sessions (totaling $120).
For more information or to inquire about participation, contact Lydia at lydia@authentic-growth.com
