Laura’s Group Principles
You might be wondering what this group is all about and how it works. At the beginning of meetings we read the following for new group members:
Purpose
The purpose of Laura’s Group is to provide a safe environment where those touched by bipolar disorder can share struggles and triumphs, while supported by fellow group members. None of us are trained therapists and we recognize that we do not have the power to change or fix anyone.
Principles
In order for this group to be effective, everyone attending the group must feel safe to share. Therefore, we abide by the following guidelines:
Confidentiality: What is said in the group stays in the group.
Until you get to know someone well, do not disclose other members' previously shared information inside the group without permission. Any information can be shared with your counselor or doctor because that’s a confidential setting.
If you’re feeling suicidal or have had suicide attempts in the past, we want you to share. However, please don’t share specific methods with the group as this can be triggering for some people. Please feel free to reach out to the facilitator after the meeting for additional support.
If at any time there is reason to believe that someone is in danger, leadership has the right to breach confidentiality.
Respect: Each group member is unique and valuable. Please be respectful of each other despite our differences. If anyone has a concern about another member please bring your concerns to the group organizer away from other members. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. Any member that is exhibiting this behavior will be asked to leave. If you are feeling discriminated against or have in the past, we would like you to share. If you feel discriminated by another group member, please reach out to leadership. We will address all concerns ASAP.
Courtesy: We also maintain one conversation in the video chat room at all times and refrain from any behavior that others might find distracting. Also, please silence your cell phones and refrain from texting or being on your phone while in group. *Taking notes on your phone is perfectly okay. If you must take a call or send a text, please let us know you will BRB and shut off your camera. If it is not your turn to share, please mute yourself until you are ready to give feedback or have a question.
Active Listening: Often, people listen to respond to what someone is saying, rather than listening for the true meaning of what they are saying. In this group we encourage active listening, so that we truly gain understanding of what each person is communicating.
Equal Opportunity Sharing: We want to make sure that everyone who wants to share at group gets the chance to. Be conscientious of others' willingness to receive feedback. If you are feeling triggered during group, *please feel free to mute your volume. (No one will know you did it.)
Members who are attending for the first time are given the opportunity to share without interruption, except by the organizer, until they say they are ready for feedback or have questions.
Privacy: Please choose a private room in your home to set up your video call. Please be aware of your background and ambient noise in the room you are in, it is best to wear headphones to ensure privacy as well as the best audio quality
Video Call Etiquette
Please dress and groom yourself for the video call as if you are coming to Joe’s coffee shop for the group meeting. Be aware of lighting. If you are backlit, we will not be able to see your wonderful face. Please do not do anything on video that you wouldn’t do in person.
If you have any questions about how group sessions are run, please feel free to contact any of the group hosts or organizers. We are happy to answer questions and want to make sure that our community is a safe space for our members.