Resources
Here is a collection of websites, articles and information to peruse.
Crisis & Immediate Support
Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention
1-866-488-7386 - Crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth under 25
877-565-8860 - Peer support hotline for transgender people
1-888-843-4564 - Confidential support for LGBTQ+ individuals
LGBTQ+ Resources
National Organizations
Support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and families
Media advocacy and education to promote LGBTQ+ acceptance
Civil rights organization advocating for LGBTQ+ equality
Local Orange County Resources
Community center serving Orange County's LGBTQ+ population
Programs and services for the LGBTQ+ community in Southern California
Transgender-Specific Support
Professional standards for transgender healthcare
Resources for gender-diverse children, teens, and families
Polyamory & Ethical Non-Monogamy
Educational Resources
Comprehensive guide to ethical non-monogamy and polyamory
Community forum and resources for polyamorous individuals
Education about couple privilege and healthy poly dynamics
Local Communities
Search for local polyamory and non-monogamy meetups in Orange County
Social network for kink and polyamory communities (18+ only)
Kink & BDSM Education
Safety & Education
Educational videos and workshops on BDSM practices
BDSM education and community organization in San Francisco
The Kink Aware Professionals Directory
Find kink-aware healthcare and mental health providers
Consent & Communication
Resources on consent, boundaries, and communication
Article on healthy relationship dynamics and communication
Mental Health Resources
Support Groups
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Support groups and education for mental health conditions
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Peer support groups for mood disorders
Books & Educational Materials
LGBTQ+ Identity & Relationships
"The Velvet Rage" by Alan Downs
Exploring gay men's struggle with shame and authenticity
"Transgender 101" by Nicholas Teich
A simple guide to understanding transgender identity
"The Gender Book" by Mel Reiff Hill
An illustrated guide to gender identity and expression
Polyamory & Non-Monogamy
"The Ethical Slut" by Janet Hardy & Dossie Easton
Classic guide to ethical non-monogamy
"Polysecure" by Jessica Fern
Attachment theory and polyamorous relationships
"Designer Relationships" by Mark Michaels & Patricia Johnson
Creating custom relationship agreements
Kink & BDSM
"The New Topping Book" & "The New Bottoming Book" by Dossie Easton & Janet Hardy
Essential guides for BDSM dynamics and practices
"Screw the Roses, Send Me the Thorns" by Philip Miller & Molly Devon
Comprehensive BDSM handbook for beginners and experienced players
Please note: These resources are provided for educational and support purposes. They do not replace professional therapy or medical care. If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a crisis helpline or emergency services immediately.
For therapy services in the Costa Mesa area, please visit www.BrooklynnKendall.com or call for an appointment.