As straight as the ring road – a Walk and Talk, Outdoor, Therapeutic Group for Queer and Trans Students

As Straight as the Ring Road is a social, walking group for all Queer and Trans Students that incorporates elements of mindfulness into each walk.

Join us if you enjoy connecting with others, tuning into yourself and the world around you, moving your body and getting out into nature.  

Dress and bring footwear appropriate for the weather. We may visit various places across the campus. Please contact the facilitator for any accommodation requirements/notes.

Facilitator

Spencer Small (he/him) I am a happily married gay man and counsellor at the University of Waterloo. I love cooking, hiking, camping and spending time with friends.  I have been working with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community for over eight years. As a former graduate student, I know just how tough those years can be, trying to balance academics, family dynamics, friendships, intimate relationships, finances, and identity, all the while trying to take care of your wellness – it's A LOT.  I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Social Development Studies and a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Tyler Riepert (he/him) I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I hold an Honours Degree in Psychology as well as a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University and have a passion for providing evidence-based care using empathy and compassion. I proudly identify as a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community and have professional experience working with marginalized populations. As a former graduate student myself, I appreciate how difficult it can be to manage academics with your personal life and overall well-being. As such, I want to provide a safe space for 2SLGBTQIA+ students to talk about daily hardships, stories of resiliency and personal success, as well as any other topics that may be on your mind.

Washington Silk (They/them), MSW, RSW is the 2SLGBTQ+ Student Support Counsellor, Counselling Services. I am a transgender and queer therapist and social worker. I have had the pleasure of working and learning from and with the queer and trans community for over the past decade. I am a white settler from Alberta. I also have lived experience of ADHD and learning disabilities. My life experiences inform my approaches and motivation for supporting students during this unique time of growth in many students lives. Outside of work I love dogs, science fiction, cheese, miniature things, and good conversations.

Who can join?

This group is open to any 2SLGBTQIA+ Students at the University of Waterloo.  

When and how do we meet?

The group will meet in person on alternate Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m - 1:00 p.m. The group will meet in the foyer second floor of Needles Hall North – just outside the doors of Campus Wellness, Counselling Services.