Pineapple Support to Launch Autism Support Group

LOS ANGELES—Pineapple Support, the adult industry’s leading mental health nonprofit, will host a free, online support group with a focus on living with autism in the adult industry, sponsored by Chaturbate. The six-week support group, “Sex Work on the Spectrum” will be led by Pineapple therapist Rachael Wells and will begin on Tuesday, February 21st at 5 p.m. EST. "Living with autism and being in the adult industry can provide amazing opportunities and additionally, at times, a sense of othering from the world," says Pineapple therapist Rachael Wells. "Stimming, existing autistically, discussing the ups and downs of society and its relation to autism will all be covered." Pineapple Support was founded by British performer Leya Tanit in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States, has so far connected more than 8,000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost, therapy, counseling, and emotional support. "Living on the autistic spectrum as a sex worker can present a unique set of challenges, which can be difficult to navigate alone," says Tanit. "Supporting each other within the community, as well as gaining a deeper understanding can help to remove some of the shame and disconnection around living with autism. Together, we'll validate, uplift, and celebrate autistic joy as sex workers, guided by talented autistic therapist Rachael Wells." The six-week “Sex Work on the Spectrum” support group begins on Tuesday, February 21st at 5 p.m. EST. Sessions will last for around one hour and will take place online each Tuesday at the same time until March 28th. For more information about this support group and to reserve a place, visit pineapplesupport.org/support-groups.