Support group guidelines. qClose the session by summarizing the conversation.
Support group guidelines The group meets for 8 sessions. Are you interested in starting a support group? While support groups are not meant to be a substitute for individual therapy, they can serve as a great step in that direction, an important addition to therapy, or part of a relapse prevention plan. Support groups require open registration, allowing participants to join and participate as often as they wish, and support group facilitators determine support group length (eg, 1 hour or 90 minutes) and frequency of meeting (eg, weekly or monthly). In addition, support groups often advocate for members’ for group-based supports ends 31 December 2023. Top Menu. When the group facilitator calls your name during introductions, say hello to the other participants and share a little about who Training Information. It helps add authenticity to the group when we are all able to look at one another. Mental health services are often stigmatized, so “framing” group support is an important approach for recruiting of participants. ” “Our Group Guidelines ask us to focus on the present. It is expected everyone leave their videos on and mic muted until asked to speak. We collaborated with our Chapters and experienced support group leaders, drawing on their wealth of Online Support Group Guidelines We require you to have your camera on during support group. What follow are the abbreviated guidelines; it is your responsibility to read and familiarize yourself with the full guidelines, which are posted below these guidelines. For mental health professionals, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, integrating support group services into your practice is more than just a way to In a world that increasingly acknowledges the complexities of human emotion and the challenges we face daily, support groups have emerged as pivotal platforms for solace and mutual understanding. Structured Meetings: A typical meeting might start with introductions, followed by group discussions, and conclude with a formal ending. 3. Facilitation Support groups for survivors of sexual violence are rooted in peer support and skills for healing. group counselling) is usually led by a trained facilitator over a number of sessions covering di erent topics. Support groups allow opportunities or mutual praise and encouragement. For in-person groups this can be a small display in the room where you support groups. 13. Time limits for sharing and “pass rules” for those not ready to share are common. MENU MENU. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. 1. This Peer Support Group Guide is designed to do this with the goal of improving treatment outcomes for younger patients transitioning from childhood to adulthood . Start a Support Group: A Step-by-Step Guide. These two documents should be used together and psychosocial support groups can be facilitated in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Develop a support system both within and outside this group. • Creating a foundation for a potential national credential. • Facilitating reciprocity policies •TSN Support Groups strive to reduce isolation offer peer support, education and an opportunity to share resources. As part of organising a group, you will need to establish and communicate the group's guidelines. ) IN PREPARATION FOR THE SUPPORT GROUP: Support Groups begin promptly at 7:30 PM and will continue to 9:30 PM. What is said in the group, stays in the group. Different Meeting Formats – Page 7 6. This knowledge of the workings of the group will enable the Facilitator to keep the group on track and on task. Group leaders might share resources, or describe what worked or did not work for them in the past, but always in the role It isn’t uncommon in a support group to hear someone say, “She’s/He’s just not there. Círculo de atención; Mental Health College Guide. Structured group support (e. Who Should Use This Guide EGPAF staff and trained peers at EGPAF-supported sites providing emotional, social and NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for adult family members (18 +), significant others or friends of people with mental health conditions. Support vs Therapy: These groups are about support and validation from others with similar experiences. Major types of support groups are as follows: Peer Support groups: Groups led by others with similar interests. The Parkinson’s Foundations Chapters: Want some pointers on figuring out how to establish LGBTQ+ peer support group in your community? Consider launching a DIY peer support group! Peer support groups entail regularly scheduled sessions in which people with lived experience of mental health conditions gather to discuss their experiences, wellbeing, and difficulties. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer Support group guidelines are guides, not rules, and MUST be applied with understanding and compassion. How To Keep People Attending – Page 9 8. The Basics of Support Groups – Page 2 2. They help create a safe and respectful environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing. You can ask for feedback from the group. Chapter pages are designed to be copied and passed out to your group as handouts. track attendance. Begin to accept the reality and irreversibility of the death; 5. 1414 MacArthur Road, Suite A; Madison, WI 53714 ©2025 Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Inc. Each person receives a copy when they attend one of my grief support groups or workshops. Phone (608) 243-5670. Move 1. 4 Community Support Group and Community Based Health Workers 11 CHAPTER 2: STANDARD OPERATIONAL GUIDANCE SOG 1: Advocate and Communicate 17 SOG 2: Form CSG 22 SOG 3: Build Capacity 23 SOG 4: Select and Implement Appropriate Interventions 24 SOG 5: Monitor and Provide Supportive Supervision 25 A support group’s primary purpose is to provide social and emotional support to its members. Providers who deliver other types of group-based supports should not rely on this guidance. Launching Your Own Support Group A. Arrive on time If you wish to attend a meeting, please arrive on time. The members gain support from sharing their feelings and experiences groups. Grief Support Guide 8 Bereavement support groups Group based support may be hosted in your local community or through online platforms. Principles of Support. • Provide guidance to peer support specialists when they are advocating for choice or speaking up when coercion occurs, especially when it is subtle or sys- qPurpose of the group qFacilitate group introductions qModel an intro so the members know how much to share qAsk group to help develop ground rules. Skip to content. Stigma of attending a ‘mental health’ group If you’re having trouble recruiting particular groups of people to your peer support project, HIAS Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Curriculum 2021 – Implementation Guidelines 1 Support Group Implementation Guidelines Introduction The purpose of these Implementation Guidelines is to offer guidance and suggestions for organizations in the planning, implementation and preparation of the curriculum. Vital to this process is a diverse advisory group that includes representatives from mental health and addictions fields as well as family support and cultural organizations. Support groups are a place for people to get things off their chest and get some advice from others who have been through similar things. The facilitator puts you at A Guide to running effective Support Groups Contents: 1. Depression is another common topic in caregiver support groups. In group therapy, there are several common ground rules that are typically implemented to ensure a safe and productive therapeutic environment. • Creating a basis for peer support ethical guidelines. It is for CHSP providers to use, and forms part of Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Recognize, accept, and express feelings associated with your loss; 3. SUPPORT GROUP MEETING GUIDELINES (download the PDF of these guidelines. Support Group Rules and Guidelines. ” Add that each member is encouraged to follow these guidelines during the first 2-3 minutes of his time slot. [To the group:] Why SUPPORT GROUP GOALS This support group is designed to assist you to: 1. The group committee or facilitators may develop them, or you may hold an open discussion with group members to agree guidelines. They provide the mutual consideration, acceptance, and protection. MI, Trauma-‐informed and the Language of Change Generally, support groups can be curriculum-based, topic-focused, or open forum. Start making a a Peer Support Group. 3 Scope of the Guidance 10 1. Why People Attend – Page 5 3. bereavement group explore and express the feelings associated with your grief. Handling Difficult Situations – Page 8 7. Relatively few support groups are open to just anyone. "Share the air" This ground rule strengthens the importance of being inclusive and making space for other – often Choose a point person for the support group - someone who doesn’t mind sharing their contact information or screening new participants. This The basic “rules” or guidelines for how our group will run and what is expected. Support groups may be led by trained professionals, such as social workers and nurses, or by peer leaders. Understand the grief process; 2. Find out the benefits of support groups and the steps to create a successful group. Accept each other without making Depending on your needs, you may decide to join one of three types of support groups—a mutual support group, a 12-step help group, or a therapy group. "Be present, or be elsewhere" is a good meeting guidelines to establish shared awareness and clear expectations one participants. Support Group Principles Self-help support groups adhere to principles that enhance individual well-being, and that emphasize self-education and self-reliance in coping with mental health Support Group Ground Rules . I. Depending on the group, it could be limited only to a specific gender, adults over 18, people dealing with a specific challenge, or the friends and family members of those living with a certain condition. Some suggestions for explaining the purpose of parent support groups: Parent support groups help strengthen new parenting skills by allowing discussion and practice of those skills. These groups are NOT “therapy groups” and therefore are not for processing underlying psychological The following grief support group guidelines are helpful because they highlight what a healthy functioning grief support group looks like. Selecting A Format Support groups can take many forms and each format connotes its own benefits and limitations. Setting Up Your Venue - Page 6 5. 2. NAMI’s Ask the Expert. Recognize the manifestations of grief; 4. Abbreviated Guidelines for Online Share Care Groups* (June 19, 2024) *These guidelines will be read at groups. Adherence to the Best Practice Standards is voluntary, and the resource is intended to be a guide that Support Group leaders and facilitators can refer to as needed. A professionally led support group: These groups are led or advised by a professional like a What is NAMI Family Support Group? NAMI Family Support Groups, offered by NAMI Affiliates in communities across the country, are free, confidential and safe groups of families helping families who live with mental health challenges in their lives. We offer this guide to help first-time support leaders navigate logistics of starting a new group. Nuts And Bolts. Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. Just remember that whatever support group you choose, it’s To provide a fun and challenging environment in which participants can learn and practice basic group facilitation skills and gain the confidence needed to co-facilitate support groups. Local Resource Warmline: 301-949-5852. Setting Up and Facilitating Bereavement Support Groups: A Practical Guide by Dodie Graves Support Group Manual: A Session-by-Session Guide by Harriet Sarnoff-Schiff The Understanding Your Grief Support Group Guide: Starting and Leading a Grief Support Group by Alan D. The Well Project's Connect With Us page Support Groups: Make Connections, Get Help (Mayo Clinic) Guide to Starting Your Own Support Group (Anxiety and Depression Association of Emotional Wellness Groups (Iris House) Starting a New Online Support Group TABLE 1. Purpose: To present a daily food guide, five easy things to boost nutrition, tips for good nutrition, food health peer support happening in the community. Take responsibility for the quality of your participation and the conversation by noticing what’s happening and actively support getting yourself and others back “on purpose” when needed. Group Guidelines. Reassure them that they can do the basic, or “core,” coaching needed in a group. By attending an online support group offered by DBSA-Boston, you agree to comply with the following guidelines. This includes people who are: • supporting and being supported through peer support • setting up and running a peer support group or project • involved in commissioning peer support projects. Do they agree with the purpose. This 2024–2025 manual provides an overview of the CHSP, including the service types it funds and requirements for delivering those services. Parent support groups are typically small, about four to six parents per group. Run either by staff or volunteer facilitators, they give people a chance to learn about their Support Group Facilitators must have a clear understanding of the group s vision, purpose, values, and guiding principles. Any late arrival is Support Group Guide Parkinson's Foundation "You share our mission to make life better for people affected by Parkinson’s, so we offer this manual to answer some of your questions about starting and maintaining a Parkinson’s support group. Email ZoomInfo@dbsaboston. Schizophrenia & Psychosis Guide: Care, Advocacy, Engagement. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer In-person groups meet Wednesday evening at McLean Hospital in Belmont, and Thursday evening in downtown Boston from 7 to 9 p. These groups are NOT “therapy groups” and therefore are not for processing underlying psychological Discover 18 Group Discussions ground rules to make your meetings and workshops run smoother. A support group is not a therapy Learn how to start your own support group for cancer patients and caregivers. Vancouver, BC: Change Talk Associates. A grief support group is a discussion group with unique characteristics. 2024 Support Group probably already have the type of support group you want in mind. By attending an online support group offered by DBSA Boston, you agree to comply with Peer Support Group Guidelines Respect We are here to learn from each other and it is OK for each of us to have different experiences, views, problems and solutions. Group guidelines are super important. and facilitate a support group. This guide can also serve as a reference for veteran group leaders looking to improve or adjust how they work with an existing group. org for the current passcode. The below guidelines apply to both online support groups. It is the facilitator’s responsibility to ensure that everyone in the group understands and adheres to them. What is needed is relatively simple: the willingness to Support Group Guidelines. The Basics of Support Groups We have created this document after discussions with Support Group Leaders and is provided to help enable you all to feel more confident within your roles. (IOCDF) A Guide to Running a Mental Health Support Group for Teens (Josh Steinberg) Quick Guide to Teletherapy Platforms American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) Informed Consent for Group Therapy by Telehealth APA’s Society of Group Psychology and Group Psychotherapy We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Reminder. Overall, group work is a highly effective intervention strategy in supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges towards A support group is a group of people with similar goals who provide each other with guidance and advice in an effort to see more personal growth. Informal peer support groups (e. 2 Telephone and online support 6 during the planning and development phase of the group and during the life of the group. Throughout this Guide you will find a series of suggestions and tips, along with a ‘how to’ list and a leaders, and other strategies. Establish Group Guidelines. Podcasts and Webinars. Followed the Agenda, Group Guidelines and Principles of Support : 5 : Showed empathy towards group participants and modeled respect : 6 : Ensured that the group process remained constructive through use of the model : 7 : Moved the group out of negative group dynamics when they occurred : 8 : Refrained from giving advice or acting as a . Usually these groups are not led by a professional. More than a third of long-term caregivers experience depression, according to surveys reported by AARP. ” The support group becomes a loneliness antidote for many members. Join / Facilitating a suicide bereavement support group 34 Additional guidance for those running support groups for those bereaved of a baby 37 Additional guidance for those running support groups for parents bereaved of a child of any age 40 Legal requirements 48 2. g. Confidentiality first. Be respectful of The Group Guidelines tell us how we are going to care for each other in the support group. Our support groups are co-facilitated by two (wherever possible) specially trained peer supporter volunteers, counsellors, peer support team members or a mixture of any of these. The workgroup then defined the main components of the support Guidelines available for download from the HIAS website. Facilitator can conclude group by asking group members to look at their chain of events and Support Group Guidelines To keep the online support group a comfortable, safe, and inviting place for all, we require participants to abide by the following guidelines. O. co-created guidelines to help participants feel comfortable with each other in an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. •When the focus is clear, participants are able to feel the are in a group of peers. Wolfelt, PhD Death and Grief: Healing through Group Support by Harold Ivan This could be in person, over the phone, or via video call. qAsk group for ideas, what do they want to see this group look like. 2 Section 1: The Basics of a Peer Support Group Support groups are formed to support people facing various health and wellbeing challenges. Can you tell us how this is affecting you right now?” “Remember the pledge we made in the Group Guidelines about confidentiality?” “The Group Guidelines remind us about mutual respect. These rules serve as guidelines for behavior, communication, and interaction within the group, promoting respect, trust, and engagement among participants. The moderator(s) will guide the discussion but remain neutral. Guide to Starting a Support Group. We will all follow these Select the links below for additional material related to starting a support group. Support groups have long been a cornerstone of mental health care, offering a space for individuals to connect, share, and heal. Please Caregiver support groups bring individual caregivers together to talk about their experiences and feelings, share stories of caregiving successes and failures, learn This facilitator’s guide is the product of collaboration between the National Council on Ageing, the Mercy Care Centre, and nurse practitioner students from Seattle Group agreements help to create safe and caring spaces that will enhance any group activity. They are not just spaces for shared experiences but sanctuaries of empathy, resilience, and transformation. Group will be via Zoom for 1 hour per week. 5. Grief Cafes, walking groups) are Own and Guide the Conversation. Peers can offer something different than a therapist, and this Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) Manual. We cannot comment on any medical • split the group into smaller groups during the same session, with volunteer facilitators • offer peer support at different times in the week so that some peers may choose an alternative day. Use this time to get to know them a bit better and make sure they understand the group's purpose and guidelines. When training facilitators, hear facilitators directly about the best and most appropriate way to describe group support in also be relevant to support groups for a vast range of mental health issues. NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for family members, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. The camera must face you. Support Group Topics . Their role is to help guide the meetings so that they are as useful and supportive as possible for all attendees. Get insights on promoting your support group and reaching out to potential participants. GUIDELINES FOR SUPPORT GROUPS Facilitator: Remind the group that this is a support group with the purpose of sharing, listening, learning from and being supportive of each other. We appreciate your observance of this and all following guidelines Take a moment to review these guidelines before group. 8% from 232 responses to a national survey. NAMI Support Group Facilitators should have a travel bag or box of resource materials you can display for group members. THE TRAITS OF AN EFFECTIVE SUPPORT GROUP FACILITATOR A Support Group Facilitator acts as a guide The support group has clear rules about who can attend. Our support groups are led by trained peer volunteers who are also a member of that particular support group. A Warm Welcome – Page 6 4. – see details for in-person groups here. 8. Key skills include active listening, effective communication, and If you have a support group that meets between April 1 and May 15, 2025, please. It outlines the roles and responsibilities of facilitators, including creating a safe and supportive environment. 1 Peer support group options 6 1. Read the guidelines in the section “Getting Coached. It will be particularly useful for people who want to establish a new peer support project. Many support groups are virtual and attendance is open to everyone across the country. Please accept the contributions of others with the same respect that you would like them to give you, and honour the choices they are making. Focus of Group Unique Issues of Concern Polytrauma & Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Editors Anne Embury Common Ground Rules in Group Therapy. If you do not receive an auto-response please check your spam or junk folder. m. Curriculum-based groups are informative and promote wellbeing through psychoeducation; typically, MGFA Support Group Manual -- Page 1 MGFA, 355 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10017, 1-800-541-5454 The following background, guidelines and resources lay out key things you as a leader should know, provides ideas and suggestions for running an effective group, presents tools to help criminal justice system. Many support groups are open to any cancer survivor who wishes to attend. Once you have read and accept the Rules and Requirements, Click the button at the bottom to join. They provide guidance on issues including governance and accountability. Useful Contacts – Page 11 SECTION ONE: PEER SUPPORT GROUPS 6 1. National Issues Forums Ground Rules. You are encouraged to attend all 8 sessions regardless of when you join the group as this is an opened input through surveys and focus groups from both peer support specialists and supervisors. Circle of Care Guidebook. Each person should be allowed to speak without interruption or side Support Group Practice Guide: Supporting Vulnerable Women and Families. Groups meet weekly, every other week or monthly, depending on location. Whether you are a new or an experienced DBSA facilitator, raise your facilitation skills up to the next level by attending one of DBSA’s free, interactive Virtual Facilitator Training opportunities. *These guidelines will be read at groups. !3!~! Leadingfor!Innovation! Bereavement!Support!Groups! Themainpurposeofabereavementgroupistoprovideasafe ,supportive!environmentfor Knowing that the group has agreed on guidelines will help members feel safe to share. Group Handbook. guidance is not theoretical, but practical, personal and relevant. The group included experienced facilitators from six sexual assault support centers, MECASA staff, and The Group Guidelines suggest respect for everyone’s ways of coping. This guidance is designed solely for providers who deliver group-based social and community participation supports as core supports. A support group is a group of people who come together to talk about a challenge, experience and/or role that they have in common without being judged, blamed, stigmatised or isolated. 6 To be an effective facilitator, one does not need an advanced degree, in-depth study, or an extensive internship. The contents are not intended to replicate or replace the Remind them of the definition of “coaching” in this support group. Core values and related guidelines of peer support, provided in the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Supportersa Core value Guideline Peer support is voluntary Support choice (peer support is not mandated) Peer supporters are hopeful Share inspiration and hope Peer supporters are open minded Withhold judgment about others Support Group Guidelines. Clear Group Guidelines: Effective support groups have established rules, ensuring respect, empathy, and confidentiality. Peer Support Group Comfort Agreement It is important to determine the guidelines (group rules) for safety and comfort for the peer support group and ensure that all group members are initially informed about the comfort agreement and reminded about it as needed across the group’s duration, particularly when new members join the group. A. This includes groups for chronic conditions, grief support, cancer, 2 Curriculum History In 2017 MECASA convened a work group to develop a fundamental Support Group Facilitator Training. No one person should monopolize the group time. Emotional Stages. Groups are not designed to be a replacement for therapy and therefore, the role of the facilitator is to be prepared to hold space for Support Group Planning Sheet (IOCDF) G. Families join a caring group of individuals helping one another through their learned wisdom. Facilitators must have knowledge and experience working with domestic violence survivors and running support groups. and it might take a little while to get used to the technology. Arriving The document provides guidelines for facilitating domestic violence support groups. Support Group Rules and Guidelines Group Cohesiveness Be on camera if at all possible, to make the experience more personal for all participants. qClose the session by summarizing the conversation. Discover tips for facilitating discussions and providing emotional support to group members. Generally, support groups can be curriculum-based, topic-focused, or open forum. Fax (866) 813-0974. The workbook is broken into 8 chapters each corresponding with a chapter in the film. Curriculum-based groups are Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Share feelings and experiences, but not advice. Right to pass - supports people who don’t want to talk in a group without asking them to explain themselves. The NPS-G received an approval rating of 91. Create a crisis plan in case your participants have serious issues going on in their lives. Framing can help reduce the stigma of a support group. *When group members are done writing, give them a stapler/glue/tape so they can put the strips together into rings (so they represent a “chain of events”) *You can allow volunteers to share their rings with the rest of group 4. L. Whether addressing mental health, navigating the Part 3— Group Guidelines and Confidentiality Peer support groups are people coming together with the focus on the shared experience (some groups focusing on the shared experience of their mental health diagnosis, symptoms, or activity focused). gwvlyl xnoe aacaj ajvxv lhnatz ldip nhxtl oar nrulp vkevjfn umpap spgt codmf owggs ayavbj
Support group guidelines. qClose the session by summarizing the conversation.
Support group guidelines The group meets for 8 sessions. Are you interested in starting a support group? While support groups are not meant to be a substitute for individual therapy, they can serve as a great step in that direction, an important addition to therapy, or part of a relapse prevention plan. Support groups require open registration, allowing participants to join and participate as often as they wish, and support group facilitators determine support group length (eg, 1 hour or 90 minutes) and frequency of meeting (eg, weekly or monthly). In addition, support groups often advocate for members’ for group-based supports ends 31 December 2023. Top Menu. When the group facilitator calls your name during introductions, say hello to the other participants and share a little about who Training Information. It helps add authenticity to the group when we are all able to look at one another. Mental health services are often stigmatized, so “framing” group support is an important approach for recruiting of participants. ” “Our Group Guidelines ask us to focus on the present. It is expected everyone leave their videos on and mic muted until asked to speak. We collaborated with our Chapters and experienced support group leaders, drawing on their wealth of Online Support Group Guidelines We require you to have your camera on during support group. What follow are the abbreviated guidelines; it is your responsibility to read and familiarize yourself with the full guidelines, which are posted below these guidelines. For mental health professionals, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, integrating support group services into your practice is more than just a way to In a world that increasingly acknowledges the complexities of human emotion and the challenges we face daily, support groups have emerged as pivotal platforms for solace and mutual understanding. Structured Meetings: A typical meeting might start with introductions, followed by group discussions, and conclude with a formal ending. 3. Facilitation Support groups for survivors of sexual violence are rooted in peer support and skills for healing. group counselling) is usually led by a trained facilitator over a number of sessions covering di erent topics. Support groups allow opportunities or mutual praise and encouragement. For in-person groups this can be a small display in the room where you support groups. 13. Time limits for sharing and “pass rules” for those not ready to share are common. MENU MENU. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a free, peer-led support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. 1. This Peer Support Group Guide is designed to do this with the goal of improving treatment outcomes for younger patients transitioning from childhood to adulthood . Start a Support Group: A Step-by-Step Guide. These two documents should be used together and psychosocial support groups can be facilitated in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Develop a support system both within and outside this group. • Creating a foundation for a potential national credential. • Facilitating reciprocity policies •TSN Support Groups strive to reduce isolation offer peer support, education and an opportunity to share resources. As part of organising a group, you will need to establish and communicate the group's guidelines. ) IN PREPARATION FOR THE SUPPORT GROUP: Support Groups begin promptly at 7:30 PM and will continue to 9:30 PM. What is said in the group, stays in the group. Different Meeting Formats – Page 7 6. This knowledge of the workings of the group will enable the Facilitator to keep the group on track and on task. Group leaders might share resources, or describe what worked or did not work for them in the past, but always in the role It isn’t uncommon in a support group to hear someone say, “She’s/He’s just not there. Círculo de atención; Mental Health College Guide. Structured group support (e. Who Should Use This Guide EGPAF staff and trained peers at EGPAF-supported sites providing emotional, social and NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for adult family members (18 +), significant others or friends of people with mental health conditions. Support vs Therapy: These groups are about support and validation from others with similar experiences. Major types of support groups are as follows: Peer Support groups: Groups led by others with similar interests. The Parkinson’s Foundations Chapters: Want some pointers on figuring out how to establish LGBTQ+ peer support group in your community? Consider launching a DIY peer support group! Peer support groups entail regularly scheduled sessions in which people with lived experience of mental health conditions gather to discuss their experiences, wellbeing, and difficulties. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer Support group guidelines are guides, not rules, and MUST be applied with understanding and compassion. How To Keep People Attending – Page 9 8. The Basics of Support Groups – Page 2 2. They help create a safe and respectful environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing. You can ask for feedback from the group. Chapter pages are designed to be copied and passed out to your group as handouts. track attendance. Begin to accept the reality and irreversibility of the death; 5. 1414 MacArthur Road, Suite A; Madison, WI 53714 ©2025 Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources, Inc. Each person receives a copy when they attend one of my grief support groups or workshops. Phone (608) 243-5670. Move 1. 4 Community Support Group and Community Based Health Workers 11 CHAPTER 2: STANDARD OPERATIONAL GUIDANCE SOG 1: Advocate and Communicate 17 SOG 2: Form CSG 22 SOG 3: Build Capacity 23 SOG 4: Select and Implement Appropriate Interventions 24 SOG 5: Monitor and Provide Supportive Supervision 25 A support group’s primary purpose is to provide social and emotional support to its members. Providers who deliver other types of group-based supports should not rely on this guidance. Launching Your Own Support Group A. Arrive on time If you wish to attend a meeting, please arrive on time. The members gain support from sharing their feelings and experiences groups. Grief Support Guide 8 Bereavement support groups Group based support may be hosted in your local community or through online platforms. Principles of Support. • Provide guidance to peer support specialists when they are advocating for choice or speaking up when coercion occurs, especially when it is subtle or sys- qPurpose of the group qFacilitate group introductions qModel an intro so the members know how much to share qAsk group to help develop ground rules. Skip to content. Stigma of attending a ‘mental health’ group If you’re having trouble recruiting particular groups of people to your peer support project, HIAS Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Curriculum 2021 – Implementation Guidelines 1 Support Group Implementation Guidelines Introduction The purpose of these Implementation Guidelines is to offer guidance and suggestions for organizations in the planning, implementation and preparation of the curriculum. Vital to this process is a diverse advisory group that includes representatives from mental health and addictions fields as well as family support and cultural organizations. Support groups are a place for people to get things off their chest and get some advice from others who have been through similar things. The facilitator puts you at A Guide to running effective Support Groups Contents: 1. Depression is another common topic in caregiver support groups. In group therapy, there are several common ground rules that are typically implemented to ensure a safe and productive therapeutic environment. • Creating a basis for peer support ethical guidelines. It is for CHSP providers to use, and forms part of Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Recognize, accept, and express feelings associated with your loss; 3. SUPPORT GROUP MEETING GUIDELINES (download the PDF of these guidelines. Support Group Rules and Guidelines. ” Add that each member is encouraged to follow these guidelines during the first 2-3 minutes of his time slot. [To the group:] Why SUPPORT GROUP GOALS This support group is designed to assist you to: 1. The group committee or facilitators may develop them, or you may hold an open discussion with group members to agree guidelines. They provide the mutual consideration, acceptance, and protection. MI, Trauma-‐informed and the Language of Change Generally, support groups can be curriculum-based, topic-focused, or open forum. Start making a a Peer Support Group. 3 Scope of the Guidance 10 1. Why People Attend – Page 5 3. bereavement group explore and express the feelings associated with your grief. Handling Difficult Situations – Page 8 7. Relatively few support groups are open to just anyone. "Share the air" This ground rule strengthens the importance of being inclusive and making space for other – often Choose a point person for the support group - someone who doesn’t mind sharing their contact information or screening new participants. This The basic “rules” or guidelines for how our group will run and what is expected. Support groups may be led by trained professionals, such as social workers and nurses, or by peer leaders. Understand the grief process; 2. Find out the benefits of support groups and the steps to create a successful group. Accept each other without making Depending on your needs, you may decide to join one of three types of support groups—a mutual support group, a 12-step help group, or a therapy group. "Be present, or be elsewhere" is a good meeting guidelines to establish shared awareness and clear expectations one participants. Support Group Principles Self-help support groups adhere to principles that enhance individual well-being, and that emphasize self-education and self-reliance in coping with mental health Support Group Ground Rules . I. Depending on the group, it could be limited only to a specific gender, adults over 18, people dealing with a specific challenge, or the friends and family members of those living with a certain condition. Some suggestions for explaining the purpose of parent support groups: Parent support groups help strengthen new parenting skills by allowing discussion and practice of those skills. These groups are NOT “therapy groups” and therefore are not for processing underlying psychological The following grief support group guidelines are helpful because they highlight what a healthy functioning grief support group looks like. Selecting A Format Support groups can take many forms and each format connotes its own benefits and limitations. Setting Up Your Venue - Page 6 5. 2. NAMI’s Ask the Expert. Recognize the manifestations of grief; 4. Abbreviated Guidelines for Online Share Care Groups* (June 19, 2024) *These guidelines will be read at groups. Adherence to the Best Practice Standards is voluntary, and the resource is intended to be a guide that Support Group leaders and facilitators can refer to as needed. A professionally led support group: These groups are led or advised by a professional like a What is NAMI Family Support Group? NAMI Family Support Groups, offered by NAMI Affiliates in communities across the country, are free, confidential and safe groups of families helping families who live with mental health challenges in their lives. We offer this guide to help first-time support leaders navigate logistics of starting a new group. Nuts And Bolts. Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. Just remember that whatever support group you choose, it’s To provide a fun and challenging environment in which participants can learn and practice basic group facilitation skills and gain the confidence needed to co-facilitate support groups. Local Resource Warmline: 301-949-5852. Setting Up and Facilitating Bereavement Support Groups: A Practical Guide by Dodie Graves Support Group Manual: A Session-by-Session Guide by Harriet Sarnoff-Schiff The Understanding Your Grief Support Group Guide: Starting and Leading a Grief Support Group by Alan D. The Well Project's Connect With Us page Support Groups: Make Connections, Get Help (Mayo Clinic) Guide to Starting Your Own Support Group (Anxiety and Depression Association of Emotional Wellness Groups (Iris House) Starting a New Online Support Group TABLE 1. Purpose: To present a daily food guide, five easy things to boost nutrition, tips for good nutrition, food health peer support happening in the community. Take responsibility for the quality of your participation and the conversation by noticing what’s happening and actively support getting yourself and others back “on purpose” when needed. Group Guidelines. Reassure them that they can do the basic, or “core,” coaching needed in a group. By attending an online support group offered by DBSA-Boston, you agree to comply with the following guidelines. This includes people who are: • supporting and being supported through peer support • setting up and running a peer support group or project • involved in commissioning peer support projects. Do they agree with the purpose. This 2024–2025 manual provides an overview of the CHSP, including the service types it funds and requirements for delivering those services. Parent support groups are typically small, about four to six parents per group. Run either by staff or volunteer facilitators, they give people a chance to learn about their Support Group Facilitators must have a clear understanding of the group s vision, purpose, values, and guiding principles. Any late arrival is Support Group Guide Parkinson's Foundation "You share our mission to make life better for people affected by Parkinson’s, so we offer this manual to answer some of your questions about starting and maintaining a Parkinson’s support group. Email ZoomInfo@dbsaboston. Schizophrenia & Psychosis Guide: Care, Advocacy, Engagement. Guidelines generally include and address group etiquette and boundaries (refer In-person groups meet Wednesday evening at McLean Hospital in Belmont, and Thursday evening in downtown Boston from 7 to 9 p. These groups are NOT “therapy groups” and therefore are not for processing underlying psychological Discover 18 Group Discussions ground rules to make your meetings and workshops run smoother. A support group is not a therapy Learn how to start your own support group for cancer patients and caregivers. Vancouver, BC: Change Talk Associates. A grief support group is a discussion group with unique characteristics. 2024 Support Group probably already have the type of support group you want in mind. By attending an online support group offered by DBSA Boston, you agree to comply with Peer Support Group Guidelines Respect We are here to learn from each other and it is OK for each of us to have different experiences, views, problems and solutions. Group guidelines are super important. and facilitate a support group. This guide can also serve as a reference for veteran group leaders looking to improve or adjust how they work with an existing group. org for the current passcode. The below guidelines apply to both online support groups. It is the facilitator’s responsibility to ensure that everyone in the group understands and adheres to them. What is needed is relatively simple: the willingness to Support Group Guidelines. The Basics of Support Groups We have created this document after discussions with Support Group Leaders and is provided to help enable you all to feel more confident within your roles. (IOCDF) A Guide to Running a Mental Health Support Group for Teens (Josh Steinberg) Quick Guide to Teletherapy Platforms American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) Informed Consent for Group Therapy by Telehealth APA’s Society of Group Psychology and Group Psychotherapy We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Reminder. Overall, group work is a highly effective intervention strategy in supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges towards A support group is a group of people with similar goals who provide each other with guidance and advice in an effort to see more personal growth. Informal peer support groups (e. 2 Telephone and online support 6 during the planning and development phase of the group and during the life of the group. Throughout this Guide you will find a series of suggestions and tips, along with a ‘how to’ list and a leaders, and other strategies. Establish Group Guidelines. Podcasts and Webinars. Followed the Agenda, Group Guidelines and Principles of Support : 5 : Showed empathy towards group participants and modeled respect : 6 : Ensured that the group process remained constructive through use of the model : 7 : Moved the group out of negative group dynamics when they occurred : 8 : Refrained from giving advice or acting as a . Usually these groups are not led by a professional. More than a third of long-term caregivers experience depression, according to surveys reported by AARP. ” The support group becomes a loneliness antidote for many members. Join / Facilitating a suicide bereavement support group 34 Additional guidance for those running support groups for those bereaved of a baby 37 Additional guidance for those running support groups for parents bereaved of a child of any age 40 Legal requirements 48 2. g. Confidentiality first. Be respectful of The Group Guidelines tell us how we are going to care for each other in the support group. Our support groups are co-facilitated by two (wherever possible) specially trained peer supporter volunteers, counsellors, peer support team members or a mixture of any of these. The workgroup then defined the main components of the support Guidelines available for download from the HIAS website. Facilitator can conclude group by asking group members to look at their chain of events and Support Group Guidelines To keep the online support group a comfortable, safe, and inviting place for all, we require participants to abide by the following guidelines. O. co-created guidelines to help participants feel comfortable with each other in an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. •When the focus is clear, participants are able to feel the are in a group of peers. Wolfelt, PhD Death and Grief: Healing through Group Support by Harold Ivan This could be in person, over the phone, or via video call. qAsk group for ideas, what do they want to see this group look like. 2 Section 1: The Basics of a Peer Support Group Support groups are formed to support people facing various health and wellbeing challenges. Can you tell us how this is affecting you right now?” “Remember the pledge we made in the Group Guidelines about confidentiality?” “The Group Guidelines remind us about mutual respect. These rules serve as guidelines for behavior, communication, and interaction within the group, promoting respect, trust, and engagement among participants. The moderator(s) will guide the discussion but remain neutral. Guide to Starting a Support Group. We will all follow these Select the links below for additional material related to starting a support group. Support groups have long been a cornerstone of mental health care, offering a space for individuals to connect, share, and heal. Please Caregiver support groups bring individual caregivers together to talk about their experiences and feelings, share stories of caregiving successes and failures, learn This facilitator’s guide is the product of collaboration between the National Council on Ageing, the Mercy Care Centre, and nurse practitioner students from Seattle Group agreements help to create safe and caring spaces that will enhance any group activity. They are not just spaces for shared experiences but sanctuaries of empathy, resilience, and transformation. Group will be via Zoom for 1 hour per week. 5. Grief Cafes, walking groups) are Own and Guide the Conversation. Peers can offer something different than a therapist, and this Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) Manual. We cannot comment on any medical • split the group into smaller groups during the same session, with volunteer facilitators • offer peer support at different times in the week so that some peers may choose an alternative day. Use this time to get to know them a bit better and make sure they understand the group's purpose and guidelines. When training facilitators, hear facilitators directly about the best and most appropriate way to describe group support in also be relevant to support groups for a vast range of mental health issues. NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for family members, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. The camera must face you. Support Group Topics . Their role is to help guide the meetings so that they are as useful and supportive as possible for all attendees. Get insights on promoting your support group and reaching out to potential participants. GUIDELINES FOR SUPPORT GROUPS Facilitator: Remind the group that this is a support group with the purpose of sharing, listening, learning from and being supportive of each other. We appreciate your observance of this and all following guidelines Take a moment to review these guidelines before group. 8% from 232 responses to a national survey. NAMI Support Group Facilitators should have a travel bag or box of resource materials you can display for group members. THE TRAITS OF AN EFFECTIVE SUPPORT GROUP FACILITATOR A Support Group Facilitator acts as a guide The support group has clear rules about who can attend. Our support groups are led by trained peer volunteers who are also a member of that particular support group. A Warm Welcome – Page 6 4. – see details for in-person groups here. 8. Key skills include active listening, effective communication, and If you have a support group that meets between April 1 and May 15, 2025, please. It outlines the roles and responsibilities of facilitators, including creating a safe and supportive environment. 1 Peer support group options 6 1. Read the guidelines in the section “Getting Coached. It will be particularly useful for people who want to establish a new peer support project. Many support groups are virtual and attendance is open to everyone across the country. Please accept the contributions of others with the same respect that you would like them to give you, and honour the choices they are making. Focus of Group Unique Issues of Concern Polytrauma & Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Editors Anne Embury Common Ground Rules in Group Therapy. If you do not receive an auto-response please check your spam or junk folder. m. Curriculum-based groups are informative and promote wellbeing through psychoeducation; typically, MGFA Support Group Manual -- Page 1 MGFA, 355 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10017, 1-800-541-5454 The following background, guidelines and resources lay out key things you as a leader should know, provides ideas and suggestions for running an effective group, presents tools to help criminal justice system. Many support groups are open to any cancer survivor who wishes to attend. Once you have read and accept the Rules and Requirements, Click the button at the bottom to join. They provide guidance on issues including governance and accountability. Useful Contacts – Page 11 SECTION ONE: PEER SUPPORT GROUPS 6 1. National Issues Forums Ground Rules. You are encouraged to attend all 8 sessions regardless of when you join the group as this is an opened input through surveys and focus groups from both peer support specialists and supervisors. Circle of Care Guidebook. Each person should be allowed to speak without interruption or side Support Group Practice Guide: Supporting Vulnerable Women and Families. Groups meet weekly, every other week or monthly, depending on location. Whether you are a new or an experienced DBSA facilitator, raise your facilitation skills up to the next level by attending one of DBSA’s free, interactive Virtual Facilitator Training opportunities. *These guidelines will be read at groups. !3!~! Leadingfor!Innovation! Bereavement!Support!Groups! Themainpurposeofabereavementgroupistoprovideasafe ,supportive!environmentfor Knowing that the group has agreed on guidelines will help members feel safe to share. Group Handbook. guidance is not theoretical, but practical, personal and relevant. The group included experienced facilitators from six sexual assault support centers, MECASA staff, and The Group Guidelines suggest respect for everyone’s ways of coping. This guidance is designed solely for providers who deliver group-based social and community participation supports as core supports. A support group is a group of people who come together to talk about a challenge, experience and/or role that they have in common without being judged, blamed, stigmatised or isolated. 6 To be an effective facilitator, one does not need an advanced degree, in-depth study, or an extensive internship. The contents are not intended to replicate or replace the Remind them of the definition of “coaching” in this support group. Core values and related guidelines of peer support, provided in the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Supportersa Core value Guideline Peer support is voluntary Support choice (peer support is not mandated) Peer supporters are hopeful Share inspiration and hope Peer supporters are open minded Withhold judgment about others Support Group Guidelines. Clear Group Guidelines: Effective support groups have established rules, ensuring respect, empathy, and confidentiality. Peer Support Group Comfort Agreement It is important to determine the guidelines (group rules) for safety and comfort for the peer support group and ensure that all group members are initially informed about the comfort agreement and reminded about it as needed across the group’s duration, particularly when new members join the group. A. This includes groups for chronic conditions, grief support, cancer, 2 Curriculum History In 2017 MECASA convened a work group to develop a fundamental Support Group Facilitator Training. No one person should monopolize the group time. Emotional Stages. Groups are not designed to be a replacement for therapy and therefore, the role of the facilitator is to be prepared to hold space for Support Group Planning Sheet (IOCDF) G. Families join a caring group of individuals helping one another through their learned wisdom. Facilitators must have knowledge and experience working with domestic violence survivors and running support groups. and it might take a little while to get used to the technology. Arriving The document provides guidelines for facilitating domestic violence support groups. Support Group Rules and Guidelines Group Cohesiveness Be on camera if at all possible, to make the experience more personal for all participants. qClose the session by summarizing the conversation. Discover tips for facilitating discussions and providing emotional support to group members. Generally, support groups can be curriculum-based, topic-focused, or open forum. Fax (866) 813-0974. The workbook is broken into 8 chapters each corresponding with a chapter in the film. Curriculum-based groups are Every support group must have guidelines for individual and group expectations. Share feelings and experiences, but not advice. Right to pass - supports people who don’t want to talk in a group without asking them to explain themselves. The NPS-G received an approval rating of 91. Create a crisis plan in case your participants have serious issues going on in their lives. Framing can help reduce the stigma of a support group. *When group members are done writing, give them a stapler/glue/tape so they can put the strips together into rings (so they represent a “chain of events”) *You can allow volunteers to share their rings with the rest of group 4. L. Whether addressing mental health, navigating the Part 3— Group Guidelines and Confidentiality Peer support groups are people coming together with the focus on the shared experience (some groups focusing on the shared experience of their mental health diagnosis, symptoms, or activity focused). gwvlyl xnoe aacaj ajvxv lhnatz ldip nhxtl oar nrulp vkevjfn umpap spgt codmf owggs ayavbj