• What is Insula Collective?

  Insula Collective is a community-driven initiative founded by Briana Boyd, a certified peer support specialist, offering support groups tailored for the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) community. We create inclusive spaces for sharing experiences and fostering mental health and wellness.

• Who can join the support groups?

  Our support groups are specifically designed for individuals within the BIPOC community who seek a safe and understanding space to discuss mental health challenges.

• How do I join a support group?

  Joining a support group is easy! Simply check our events on the website and click on the corresponding link to rsvp. More info on this coming soon!

• Is there a cost to participate?

  Participation in our support groups is donation based. Pay-what-you-can! Our suggested donation is $10-$15. What you contribute is confidential and no one who is unable to donate will be refused. Our mission is to make mental health support accessible to all members of the BIPOC community.

• I’m running late! What’s the late policy?

  We start on time. Things do come up so there is a 10 minute grace period. I suggest giving yourself an extra 10-15 minutes to secure parking, arrive, and settle in. I will not turn away folks but it is pretty disruptive to stop the flow of the convo and get a latecomer up to speed.

• Who leads the support groups?

  Our founder, Briana, a certified peer support specialist, leads the support groups. They bring both professional expertise and personal understanding to create a supportive and empathetic environment.

• What is a Peer Support Specialist?

  A Peer Support Specialist is an individual with lived experience in mental health challenges who has undergone specialized training to provide support to others facing similar struggles. They offer empathy, understanding, and practical coping strategies, bridging the gap between personal experience and professional assistance. Briana completed PSS training through NAMI California and successfully passed the examination required to be certified by the state of California as a Medicaid provider.

• Are the support groups confidential?

  Yes, confidentiality is a top priority. What is shared in the support groups stays within the group. We create a safe space where members can openly discuss their experiences.

• How often do support groups meet?

  • The meeting frequency varies, and our schedule is regularly updated on the website. Check our calendar for the most current information on upcoming support group sessions.

• Do I have to speak?

  • Listening is also active participation so you are not required to speak. We do encourage you to check-in and participate in the discussion but it is not mandatory. Simply “pass” or let Briana know prior to the session you’d prefer to take a backseat.

• Do you offer one-on-one support sessions?

  • Currently, our focus is on group support sessions. However, feel free to reach out, and we can explore available resources or connect you with appropriate services.

• How can I support Insula Collective?

  • You can support us by spreading the word, participating in our groups, or contributing to our mission. Feel free to contact us if you're interested in collaborating or providing assistance.

  VENMO: @insulacollective_

  CASHAPP: $insulacollective

*More to come!