A Learning laboratory The group experience is an opportunity for you to practice new and healthier communication with others and to learn through feedback and support. It is important that you speak up and participate.
Commitment In order to develop a trusting relationship with other group members it is important to make a commitment to spend time getting to know the other group members. This takes time. You are therefore asked to initially attend a minimum of 12 consecutive sessions to develop these relationships and feel comfortable in the group environment.
Respect
Treat others with respect, and don't put them down, make fun of them, or be disrespectful.
Participation
Be on time for group sessions, and notify the group at least 24 hours ahead of time if you can't attend. There is a no show/no cancel fee unless notice is received at least 24 hours ahead of time.
Confidentiality
Don't share personal information about others in the group, such as names or addresses, or group discussions.
Distractions
You wouldn't be sitting in a therapy group with other group members and reading a newspaper or scrolling on your phone. You are asked to give your full attention to the discussion and participate fully in the conversation and not focus on reading emails, websites, etc. during the session.
Disruptions
Don't interrupt others when they're speaking, and don't be disruptive or negatively affect other group members, It is important that you and other group members work through any disagreement even if that is agreeing to disagree.
Ending the group
If you decide to leave the group, explore your concerns with Ed Geraty LCSW-C individually. If you still want to discontinue you are asked to commit to a final group session to say goodbye and get closure.