Please read through the information below and feel free to ask questions about our sessions and/or anything about us. Once you are ready to participate, please sign this informed consent form below so we will have on our records that you have read the information and that you have been properly informed about the guidelines and expectations of group therapy.

WHAT IS GROUP THERAPY Group Therapy is a unique kind of therapy where a group of people who are likely experiencing similar challenges in the period of their lives gets together to share their difficulties which as a result give and at the same time, receive help from each other. We make sure to maintain a safe environment that is conducive both for sharing and accepting each other where each can grow and trust one another and where each and everyone will feel respected and valued.

CONFIDENTIALITY We respect each and everyone's right to privacy and confidentiality and we shall make sure to maintain it that way. However, please understand that this is not absolute and is limited to provide for by law. Certain limitations are as follows: Threatening one's self or another that may result in physical harm; An act of physical or emotional abuse against a child or any person; Sexual abuse against a child where the child is living with the abuser;Whenever we are summoned by court order to disclose information against a participant. However, we shall notify you and let you exercise your privilege in the right to deny the disclosure of your records with us. Your prior written consent to release records.

CONDUCT AND RELATIONSHIP For safety, it is necessary that the following is required to be complied with by its members: Discussions made within the group sessions are not allowed to be discussed outside with anyone and should maintain the practice of confidentiality in order to build trust with fellow members; Members should maintain a respectful and open=minded attitude and not induce disrespect among others; Members should not be drunk, nor they are allowed to take alcohol or take drugs before or after therapy; Maintain conduct that brings respect to fellow members' thoughts, emotions, or behavior. Refrain from having a relationship with a fellow member other than therapeutic while engaged in the session.

Commitment to Attendance This is another essential rule for nearly any group – it is vital that each member attend every session, arrive on time, and stay for the entire session. In addition to the absent member missing valuable information and practice, absence, late arrival, or early leaving can disrupt the group.

THE THERAPIST(S) The therapist should maintain a professional relationship with the participants all the time and no more than that. Any relationship with a participant may result in a "dual relationship" and may affect the goals of the session.

No Socializing with Group Members Group therapy is not a social activity, it is (hopefully!) a therapeutic one. Forming close friendships or other bonds with group members can interfere with group success, especially if members become hesitant to share personal information because of another group member. Friendships should be saved for after the group has disbanded.

Participate Group therapy doesn’t have much of a therapeutic effect if the members do not participate! While there will be times when you don't feel up for speaking, show up and try your best. The potential for healing and growth rests on how much group members are able to connect, share, and learn from one another. It is essential for all group members to truly participate for this treatment to be effective.

WHAT TO EXPECT The sessions consist of processing on the issues that members are involved where the others will give their feedback and reaction towards the said issue. This helps each member understand the issue from a different perspective in order to understand others. This also helps with one's reflection about his or her situation which can then help for insight and personal growth. Some topics to be discussed are generational trauma, gender roles, self-esteem, parentification of daughters, attachment in relationships, and unhealthy dynamics in relationships, among other topics.

For group therapy and therapy to be effective in general, it is important to commit to at least 14-16 sessions or the length agreed between the therapist and members.

CONSENT I agree to adhere to the norms and expectations for group therapy with Karina Aybar-Jacobs, LMSW, CPC, as indicated above. I acknowledge that I have had the opportunity to ask questions and such questions were answered clearly and to my satisfaction.