Women's Groups
My Interest in Group WorkMy interest in groups was “stirred” from having participated on a Foundation Course in Group Therapy at Goldsmith’s College in 2005 for a year. I learnt so much about myself in relation to others but also in terms of group dynamics and group roles. Each week, I learnt something new and interesting about myself – not all of which I liked! However, I was able to identify areas of my personal development that I needed to work on which I call my “growing edges”. In terms of group work, I have facilitated a Creative Expression, Relapse Prevention and currently run a vibrant and empowering Psycho-education group for women who have alcohol and drug addiction. I find group work to be "magical" in terms of the learning and sharing that occurs. Groups can also have a very transformative and life changing effect.
What are the Benefits of a Women’s Group?
Some people may prefer working one on one with a counsellor; however being a part of a group can only add to the therapeutic experience and hence some people choose to have both individual and group therapy.
A women’s group is a place to:
What is Self-Esteem?
" … I’m not the average girl from your video
And I ain’t built like a supermodel
But I learned to love myself unconditionally,
Because I am a queen
When I look in the mirror and the only one there is me
Every freckle on my face is where it’s suppose to be
And I know my creator didn’t make no mistakes on me
My feet, my thighs, my lips, my eyes, I’m loving what I see … "
(Lyrics from India Arie’s - Video)
Self esteem means having a positive image of self - Don Simmermacher
Self esteem is a state of mind. It is the way you feel and think about yourself and others, and is measured by the way you act - Connie Paladino
To trust one's mind and to know that one is worthy of happiness is the essence of self esteem - Nathaniel Branden
Women's Group Programmme
I am currently running a 6 week group Self-Esteem programme for 2 hours for 6 – 8 women.
Session I: Do You like You?
Session 2: You Deserve Healthy Love Sis!
Session 3: Unfinished Business
Session 4: Life Lessons For My Sisters
Session 5: What Keeps you Imprisoned?
Session 6: What's in Your Treasure Chest!
I acknowledge that these sessions can only be “taster” sessions as they are courses and books in their own right! However, it can help to “kick start” the beginning of personal deeper
self-exploration which is always a good thing.
Group Commitment
Time – to respect time boundaries and attend all 6 sessions.
Challenge constructively with love, honesty and respect.
Honesty – to be as honest as you feel able and safe to be.
Learning – to be responsible for your own learning and to be willing to invest in the group experience.
Drug free (including alcohol) before attending the group.
Confidentiality – that is what is said in the group stays in the group so that people feel safe and are able to take risks if they want to.
What’s the Process for deciding who will be in the group?
A brief group questionnaire will be sent out to individuals who are interested in attending the Women’s group. The questionnaire will include such questions concerning as mental health issues; previous therapy experiences; expectations of the course and what areas of their self-esteem would you like to work on. This will be followed up with a telephone interview from me so as to ascertain the appropriateness, emotional well-being and safety of each group member.
Where will the group take place?
The group will take place either one evening a week or on a Saturday depending on the needs of the group. The group will take place in the South West London area (Venue and cost to be confirmed shortly).
Useful Reading
60 Tips for Self-Esteem: Quick Ways to Boost your Confidence - Lynda Field
Souls of My Sisters: Black Women Break Their Silence, Tell their Stories and Heal Their Spirits - Candace Sandy & Dawn M Daniels
The New Diary - How to use a Journal for Self guidance and Expanded Creativity - Tristine Rainer
Yesterday I Cried: Celebrating The Lessons Of Living and Loving - Iyanla Vanzant
Audio-Tapes by Iyanla Vanzant: Giving To Yourself; Living From Your Center; Finding Faith in Difficult Times. Iyanla Lives series: Transformation; Back to Basics; Our Relationship With Money; Gratitude and Forgiveness.
Longing To Tell: Black Women Talk About Sexuality and Intimacy - Tricia Rose
Soul Purpose: Self Affirming Meditations and Creative Exercises to Revive your Spirit - Jackee Holder
Getting Good Loving: Seven Ways to Find Love and Make it Last - Audrey B. Chapman
Life Lessons for My Sisters: How to Mke Wise Choices and Live a Life You Love! - Natasha Munson
You Deserve Healthy Love Sis! Dr. Grace Cornish
iFactor For Women: 52 Profound Questions Every Woman Should Ask Themselves - Ken Barnes
Love Yourself, Heal Your Life Workbook - Louise L. Hay
