NEURODIVERSE COUPLES GROUP
Neurodiverse Couples often feel utterly alone in their struggles. It is hard to explain your experiences to friends and family for fear of being judged or misunderstood.
Our group goal is to provide a safe space for you to speak with other neurodiverse couples about how neurodiversity affects your relationship. Most couples quickly realize that their issues sound similar to everyone else's. This helps lessen the shame and stress you may be feeling and, hopefully, be more open to learning new ways to change and grow.
Furthermore, a group can inspire awareness and change that individual therapy or solo work cannot. Group dynamics can provide different perspectives and experiences, and these dynamics can be powerful as you explore a greater awareness of your neurodiversity. A group can also bring greater accountability and a sense of teamwork as you seek a common goal.
Our group therapist/coach will introduce tools and strategies AND facilitate learning tools from the other couples who have addressed similar experiences and issues.
FORMAT:
The format is as follows:
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Each group is limited to 5 couples.
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Couples meet for 1 hour and 15 minutes twice a month on Zoom.
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The group begins with a brief "relationship check-in."
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After this, there is a 15 to 20-minute training or discussion of a topic dealing with relationships. The topics (which may be modified based on your interests) are:
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Sensory Connections
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Understanding pursue/withdraw patterns
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Building Intimacy (Love List exercise)
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Navigating Anger
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Time Together and Apart
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Open topic night
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The rest of our time is devoted to one couple working with the therapist/coach on an issue in front of the group. You will be invited to volunteer and not be put on the spot.
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The last part of our time is for the group to voice an appreciation to the working couple for something they witnessed and share what they got from what they saw.
While this may seem intimidating, we hope you will feel your peers' support as you deal with issues that most of you share as couples. We will create a safe place where you can be open and share meaningful experiences.
REQUIREMENTS:
The requirements are:
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You must have an initial couples interview session with your therapist/coach, although this may not be needed for current or past clients.
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You can not be in crisis. Your therapist/coach will help you define this.
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You must be willing to commit to at least eight sessions.
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You must commit to complete confidentiality of what is discussed during our group sessions.
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No formal diagnosis of ASD is required.
WHEN:
Mondays 6:30 to 8:00 pm PT. Couples Groups are offered four times yearly; the next start date will be August 7th, 2023.
FAQS ABOUT GROUPS
Q: What's the first step?
A: Fill out the contact form below.
Q: What will the group cost?
A: $100/couple/session with a commitment of 8 sessions. Payment for each session is due after each session. Because the fee "reserves" your spot in the group, you will be charged for each session even if you miss it.
A limited number of sliding-scale options may be available. Please ask your therapist/coach about this.
Q: My marriage is struggling. Will we mess up the group?
A: Probably not; however, your therapist/coach will help you determine if this fits the initial consult conversation well.
Q: What if I am in individual therapy?
A: No problem. I can work with your therapist to ensure we are on the same page and support your work in your other therapy.
Q: What if I am super nervous about groups?
A: Joining the group will require courage, but rest assured, the group will work hard to support you. This may help you feel more comfortable in other groups you are a part of, maybe even in your family.
Q: What if I can't come to all the groups?
A: You still need to pay the total amount. We will offer homework in between the sessions, and none of the sessions will be recorded to protect confidentiality. Even if you miss one or two sessions, you will still benefit, though if you know you'll miss multiple sessions in advance, it may be best to wait for another round of the group.
Q: When does the next group start?
A: Couples Groups are offered four times yearly; the next start date will be August 7th, 2023. We will keep you posted and give you a heads-up so you can make the necessary arrangements to ensure your participation.
Q: Will members come and go?
A: No. This group is what is called a closed group. The members you meet on the first day are the ones that will be with you the whole time unless they drop out, and no new members will be added. The group will be limited to 5 couples, giving you ample time and space to be heard.
Q: If my partner is sick, can I come without them?
A: Yes. You are welcome to attend if your partner is OK with doing so.
Q: I am not in a relationship but want to be. Can I still come?
A: Unfortunately not. This group is for Neurodiverse Couples only. I may start a different group for people seeking relationships, so let me know if this interests you.
“Life is . . . not about counting the losses and the lost expectations, but rather swimming, with as much grace as can be mustered, in the joy of all of it.”.”
Leisa Hammett