Note: All groups must have at least five participants to take place. If groups do not fill to this capacity, your payment will be automatically refunded. Thank you for understanding.

-----------------------------------------

ACUITY FOR SIGNING UP/ PAYING https://secure.acuityscheduling.com/appointments.php?action=editAppointmentType&id=23268278

https://strategiesforfightingdepressionandanxiety.eventbrite.com 

$50-75 (Sliding Scale Options - Please email hello@beginwithintoday.com)

---------------------------------------

Places to post groups: 

1. 0. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

2. 0. https://www.squarespace.com

3. 0. https://www.helloherd.com

4. 0. https://mentalhealthmatch.com/therapist/dashboard

5. 0. https://secure.acuityscheduling.com/appointments.php?action=appointmentTypes&updatedType=1

6. 0. https://www.therapyden.com/account/signin

7. 0. https://www.linkedin.com/feed/

8. 0. https://openpathcollective.org

9. 0. https://www.facebook.com  PAGES + GROUPS 

10. Instagram accounts 

11. NEWSLETTERS

12. SAN DIEGO LYME NEWSLETTERS

----------------------------------

Support Group Participation Agreement

Support groups are often the treatment of choice for people who experience various challenges, in life, health, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, relationships, work, self-esteem, etc. People who participate have the opportunity to benefit from sharing personal experiences, giving and receiving supportive/constructive feedback, and experimenting with new interpersonal behaviors. In order for support groups to work, a safe environment must be created and expectations for members and co-leaders must be understood by the participants. Our experience with groups supports that the best way to create a safe environment for personal growth is for you to understand and to agree to these guidelines. Keep in mind, participants may change from session to session, and a licensed mental health professional will facilitate the group (Christina P. Kantzavelos, LCSW). Depending on the group, topics and discussions may be decided and led by the participants.  

I.  Confidentiality 


Engaging in a group remotely brings a few unique variables to confidentiality. To engage in a remote  group, you agree to keep others' information confidential. Given that the devices we will use to connect to Zoom have speakers, microphones, and cameras, you must ensure that you are in a safe environment free from distractions where others cannot hear or see what is being discussed. Headphones are particularly useful for groups if you have access to them. 

Sharing in a group can be anxiety-provoking; therefore we ask that you keep all information discussed in this group confidential. This request means that you may not discuss the identity or identifying information or share the reactions of any member of this group with anyone outside of the group. You may talk about your own personal reactions, and are even encouraged to do that outside of the group, but not about others’ identifying information or reactions. Any form of audio or video recording or taking photographs is prohibited, and any violation will result in the participant’s removal from the group. This request is based on California State Law that prohibits members from revealing identifying information pertaining to other members outside of the group setting. Exceptions to confidentiality with regard to your therapist(s) still hold: imminent danger to self and/or others, present child or elder abuse, subpoenaed records, and threat to national security. 

II. Risk to Self or Others

If you are seriously considering suicide or harming someone else, group treatment may not be the best option for you. At times, members may experience a personal crisis that leads them to become suicidal or homicidal.  If these feelings arise, you are expected to share all suicidal and homicidal thoughts, feelings, and impulses with the group or leaders. This will ensure that you get the support and treatment that you need.

If at any point you are concerned that remote/zoom group services are not meeting your therapeutic needs, you agree to inform your facilitators if possible. 

III. Attendance

This is a drop-in support group to allow for flexibility around your life and healing. If you are running late or have an emergency/ illness that prohibits you from coming to the group, we ask that you call, text or e-mail at 619-797-6383 or hello@beginwithintoday.com. Only credit is provided towards the next group, if you have to miss due to emergency, or illness. 

IV.  Active Participation

Members are not required to talk in groups, but we know that the more you put in, the more benefits you will receive. The only time we ask that you do speak is when a new member is added to the group and introductions and goals for the group are shared. We will encourage you to talk about feelings as opposed to sharing details of stories. We will ask you to do this because not everyone can relate to a life experience, but everyone can understand feelings (i.e., fear, happiness, anger, etc.). We realize that asking you to focus on your feelings can be frustrating at times, but a group is a place to learn new ways of making deeper connections with others. 

IV.  Payment 

Please pay an agreed amount in advance of the group meeting via Acuity. 

Limitations. This support group does not provide emergency mental health services. If you are experiencing an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or call the free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-TALK (8255), or text HELLO to 839863, available 24 hours a day. A Crisis Text Line also is available by texting HOME to 741741. And the Chronic Illness Hotline can be reached at (202) 596-6520. 

Noncompliance with these guidelines may result in removal from the group and disqualification from future participation in support groups. 

Participant consent and agreement 

By signing below and by participating in the virtual support groups, I am acknowledging and agreeing to the terms and conditions set herein. 

Tips for a successful meeting 

• Join meetings from a private location free from distractions and away from others who are not part of the group. 

• Use headphones if you have them to offer added privacy for the other participants.
• Mute yourself when you are not speaking.
• Use Gallery View to see the whole group. Use Speaker View to see the person actively speaking. 

• Show respect for others and ask for permission before giving feedback. 

Save for future: 

Welcome to our Loved Ones of Chronic Illness Warriors Support Group, a dedicated space for friends, family members, caregivers, and allies of individuals battling chronic illness. We recognize that chronic illness affects not only the person directly experiencing it but also their loved ones who provide support, care, and understanding throughout their journey. This group is a supportive community where loved ones can come together to share their experiences, concerns, and triumphs, and to find solidarity and guidance in supporting their chronically ill family members or friends.
In our supportive environment, members gather to express their feelings, challenges, and successes in caring for and supporting their chronically ill loved ones. Whether you're grappling with feelings of helplessness, frustration, or burnout, seeking practical advice on caregiving, or simply needing a listening ear from others who understand, our group offers a safe and empathetic space where you can freely share and receive support without judgment.

Our group discussions cover a wide range of topics relevant to supporting a loved one with chronic illness, including navigating healthcare systems, communicating effectively with healthcare providers, managing caregiver stress and burnout, setting boundaries, and fostering resilience and self-care. Through sharing personal experiences, insights, and coping strategies, members gain valuable support and guidance to navigate the complexities of caregiving and supporting their chronically ill loved ones.

We welcome guest speakers, healthcare professionals, and experts who provide specialized knowledge and guidance on topics such as caregiving techniques, accessing community resources, advocating for your loved one's needs, and maintaining healthy boundaries while providing support. Additionally, we offer resources, tools, and exercises designed to promote self-care, resilience, and well-being for caregivers and their families.

Above all, our Loved Ones of Chronic Illness Warriors Support Group is a place of solidarity and empowerment. We believe that by coming together, sharing experiences, and offering support, caregivers and allies can find strength, resilience, and connection in their journey alongside their chronically ill loved ones. Whether you're seeking validation, advice, or companionship in your role as a caregiver or ally, we invite you to join us and discover the power of community in supporting and caring for those we love.

This monthly meeting will take place over Zoom. Unlike traditional webinars, this is an interactive support group. This monthly event begins with a guided meditation or somatic exercise. We will then discuss the month’s theme, where we will engage in group dialogue and/or break out into small pods. Our hope is that you come away feeling supported, heard and inspired on your healing journey.

I believe the more informed, connected, and inspired we are, the better we feel, and the stronger our families, schools, businesses, and communities become.

These groups are  intended to offer a safe and courageous space to process feelings and experiences related to chronic illness while receiving peer support.  

***This group does not provide medical, mental health or any other type of health service. No diagnosis, treatment recommendations or advice regarding any medical or mental health condition or illness will be offered. The support group cannot be a substitute for or alternative to treatment when a medical or mental health condition is present. Support group members are advised to seek professional services from licensed physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists and health care professionals, if and when necessary.

Hotlines

A) Access and Crisis Line: 2-1-1 

B) Chronic Illness Hotline (202) 596-6520

C) Non-Medical Companion Listening Line 800-565-9731 (via) 

D) National Suicide Helpline  8-1-1 / 1-800-273-8255, or text HELLO TO 839863.