Groups

Therapeutic support groups

Individual therapy provides a safe and confidential space to explore personal issues, gain deep insights, and develop tailored strategies that work for us. However, the magic of group therapy should not be overlooked. Engaging in group work fosters a sense of community, and allows us to learn from others' experiences and different perspectives. And, often most importantly, it is a place where we can realise that we're not alone with the thoughts and feelings we have - it can feel very validating to discover that others have the same reactions to difficult situations.

Why would I join one of your groups?

I've had a lot of experience organising a wide range of groups over many years and so I understand that people need to feel safe, heard and validated. My 30 years as a teacher equipped me with the skills to organise inclusive groups and my development as a therapist has enhanced my understanding of therapeutic group dynamics. This means you can be sure that my groups are well organised, trans- and neuro- inclusive, and balance the needs of individuals and the group as a whole.

What groups have you facilitated?

I've facilitated a range of therapeutic, support and psychoeducation groups, including groups for:

motherless daughters
men with PTSD
parents of neurodivergent children
adults with a recent diagnosis of autism
healthcare professionals working with neurodivergent clients

What happens in a group?

There are different types of group, and so the content will change accordingly. However, all groups have a similar format:

welcome
reminder of group agreement
positive check in
recap from previous session
psychoeducation topic (if appropriate)
chance to share our experiences and learn from each other
summing up and looking forward

What if I feel nervous about joining a group?

Most people feel nervous: it's a leap of faith to step into a room with a bunch of strangers. And we might worry that the group will be a bit sad or focus on difficult stuff. Many find, however, that the validation we get from being with others who understand and share our experience quickly creates strong bonds and helps us feel more confident. And we often have a laugh, even if it is sometimes between tears!

How do you ensure safety?

We start all groups with an agreement that we draw up between us and commit to adhering to. We start each subsequent session with a quick reminder of our group's rules and make sure we're all still happy to follow them. My many years as a teacher and a group facilitator mean that I'm aware of potential issues and I'm not afraid to have difficult conversations if necessary. Safety is paramount for me, and outcomes for the whole group improve if everyone feels safe.

What if I have specific needs?

It's important to me that my groups are as inclusive and as welcoming as possible so please let me know and I'll do all I can to work with you to meet your needs within the group setting.

Where do groups take place?

Most groups are online as this improves accessibility and allows me to keep costs down. I do facilitate in-person groups as well, usually in Leith and surrounding areas as I know some people prefer that type of connection. I'm always looking for appropriate venues and hope to offer more in-person groups in the future.

What's the commitment?

There are different types of therapeutic group:

6 session block (usually weekly or fortnightly) - this is often a psychoeducation group where we learn new information, skills and strategies, as well as share our stories
ongoing monthly support groups

All group sessions last 1.5 or 2 hours.

How much do groups cost?

Exact price depends on a variety of factors such as location, type of therapeutic group and number of participants. You can expect to pay between £10 a month for an ongoing support group and £220 for a block of 6 psychoeducation groups.

There is a maximum of 10 participants in psychoeducation groups and 16 in support groups. No group will run with fewer than 4 participants.

The price includes optional inclusion in a WhatsApp group so that members can connect in between sessions.

What is psychodeducation?

Essentially we learn about what's going on in our brains and bodies, the impact that's having on us and how we can better deal with it. Demystifying what's going on really helps us gain control over situations and we can build up a toolbox of strategies that we have for life.

An example: We might learn about how trauma affects the brain, and so we understand better what causes our triggers. This makes them less scary, which creates space for us to practise coping strategies we learned in the group. We share our success with the group, get positive reinforcement because others appreciate what a big deal it was for us, and our brain remembers that next time...

You mention motherless daughters - what is that?

The loss of our mum has a profound impact on all of us, and affects the rest of our lives. For daughters, the complex emotions involved can be isolating, confusing and feel shameful ('Surely I shouldn't still be feeling like this?') and they may need processing again at each significant life milestone. Many motherless daughters (including myself) find supportive community in being able to meet with women who know what they mean and who share their joys and sorrows. For some daughters, it's the only place they feel free to say their mum's name and share their stories of her, and it's a space where, from each other, we can learn ways of integrating our new relationship with our mum into our lives.

Are you facilitating any new therapeutic groups soon?

Because of the enormous success of my motherless daughters group, and the high demand for support, I'm in the process of establishing groups for:

motherless mothers
motherless sons
adult children estranged from mothers
motherless daughters (online)

Please contact me if you'd like to be notified when new groups become available.