Sex worker wellness circle
Sex Worker Wellness Circle
Provide mental health support for sex workers looking to share their experiences without the burden of stigma while building tools to manage trauma. These circles are offered free of charge by a peer leader/mental health professional.
Sex workers are often mishandled by mental health professionals who reinforce stigma against sex work or are under-informed about the specific issues of the profession. Additionally, many sex workers are uninsured and may lack the resources to afford mental health support.
- Bring in participants to the wellness circle
- Share grounding techniques for trauma responses
- Maintain ongoing participation and community
Online Zoom meeting where participants shared their experiences, receiving support and validation from others attending the event, and support managing trauma responses that may occur due to topics discussed.
Sex workers had a safe space to speak and were not met with stigma or judgment. The intimate format, despite low overall numbers, fostered a high level of trust and open sharing. Participants received emotional support dealing with workplace sexual assault as well as grounding tools they can use outside of the wellness circle. Participants reported feeling grateful for the space and stated they hope to continue attending.
"Sex work abolitionists say that if money is involved, consent cannot be given, and I hate that argument, but it is true, money affects consent."
Virtual access via Zoom. Free of charge. Participation limited to vetted community