Both/And: A New Group for Mixed-Race APIDA Folks

I’m starting a new virtual support group for adults who identify as mixed-race, multiethnic, or multicultural Asian, Pacific Islander, and/or Desi American (APIDA).

It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a long time, because it’s a space that I know I could have used when I was growing up in rural Illinois.

There’s this very specific experience of being “in between” cultures that often doesn’t get talked about in mental health spaces. It can look like being asked “What are you?” more times than you can count. Or feeling like you’re supposed to choose one side of yourself or your family. Or not feeling fully seen anywhere, even in the places that are supposed to feel like home.

Being a mixed race, multiethnic, multicultural person can be so complicated and nuanced. It can also feel so so lonely sometimes even in your own family.

That’s why I want to make space for it.

Why This Group Matters

I see so many clients who carry these questions:

• Am I “enough” of any one culture?

• How do I navigate family expectations that might conflict?

• How do I talk about racism and colorism in my own communities?

• What does it mean to belong when your identity is layered and complex?

We don’t always get to unpack these questions with people who truly understand. This group is meant to offer that kind of space.

A Bit About My Own Experience

I grew up in mostly white spaces, with a pretty uneven connection to my Chinese heritage. My Chinese grandparents passed away before I knew what I’d even want to ask them, and a lot of that detailed history just didn’t get passed down. As an adult, I’ve tried to find my own ways back in—through food, movies, books, Mandarin classes that were humbling (and honestly, really hard), and lots of conversations with my brother. It’s an ongoing, imperfect process for me. I don’t have it all figured out, but I know how important it is to have a place to talk about it without needing to explain everything.

Who This Group Is For

This is an online group for adults (18+) who identify as mixed-race, multiethnic, or multicultural within the APIDA diaspora.

We’ll meet for 75 minutes every other week on Zoom. The specific day and time will depend on what works best for people who sign up.

This group is for anyone who has wanted to dive deeper into how their identity and culture may be impacting their day-to-day lives, relationships, and families. It’s for those for maybe never had the time and space to do so before, but now it’s feeling like more of a priority.

How to Join

If this sounds like it might be a good fit, or if you have questions, feel free to reach out.

Email me at caitlin@tinycottagetherapy.com

I’ll be coordinating with interested folks to find the best time to start.

If you know someone who might want this kind of space, please feel free to share this with them.