LOS ANGELES — Pineapple Support has renewed its partnership with industry therapist Jasmine Johnson (MSW, MA, LCSW) of Blue Pearl Therapy to host two free five-week online support groups for adult industry performers — one for survivors of sexual trauma and one centered on grief and loss, beginning August 7.
“We hope these sessions will help performers build strong bonds and develop an ongoing support network,” said Leya Tanit, founder and president of Pineapple Support. “Jasmine was one of the very first therapists to offer her services to Pineapple Support. She knows how important it is for performers who have experienced trauma and grief to talk with others with similar backgrounds.”
Blue Pearl Therapy is a sex-worker-aware, stigma-free therapeutic practice that provides both online and offline therapy and coaching. Johnson is a licensed clinical social worker and gerontologist providing therapeutic services related to PTSD, depression and anxiety for over 15 years.
Tanit launched Pineapple Support in response to a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illness. In its first year alone, Pineapple Support has connected over 250 adult performers to mental health services including free and low-cost, therapy, counseling and emotional support.
“As an active clinical therapist and adult entertainer myself, I know firsthand the challenges that can accompany accessing mental health support,” Johnson said. “I am elated to partner with Pineapple Support to help bridge the gap between mental health resources and sex workers.”
Johnson said performers can expect to meet online weekly with peers and a sex worker-friendly therapist to discuss the impact of grief and sexual trauma, including coping skills. Performers can expect a judgment-free safe space where the only thing anyone needs to have in common is being a member of the adult industry community.
“One of the hardest things that adult performers face is stigma from the therapeutic community,” Tanit explained. “We need to meet performers on their own terms, and in an environment that understands their needs.”
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