Resist and Process Group

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 This group therapy process aims to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced vicarious trauma related to witnessing genocide and engaging in activism. Participants may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD as a result of their experiences and the emotional toll of advocating for social justice. The group will focus on healing, resilience, and coping strategies while fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.  (Group size will be limited to 12 participants. Individual intakes required before participating.)

This group therapy process aims to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals who have experienced vicarious trauma related to witnessing genocide and engaging in activism. Participants may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD as a result of their experiences and the emotional toll of advocating for social justice. The group will focus on healing, resilience, and coping strategies while fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.

The group will initially meet biweekly, Monday's at 8pm EST.


1. Group Formation and Introduction
   - The group will begin with an introduction where each participant shares their name, a brief overview of their experiences related to vicarious trauma, and their goals for participating in the group. This initial sharing helps to establish trust and rapport among members.


2. Grounding
   - Each session will start with a grounding process to help participants center themselves and create a safe and supportive environment. This may include mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, or guided imagery to promote relaxation and focus.


3. Check-In:
   - Participants will engage in a check-in where they can share their current emotional state, any recent challenges, and successes. This allows members to express their feelings, validate each other's experiences, and foster a sense of connection.


4. Thematic Discussions:
   - Each session will focus on a specific theme related to vicarious trauma, such as:
     - The impact of witnessing violence and suffering on mental health.
     - Navigating feelings of helplessness and despair in activism.
     - Strategies for self-care and emotional resilience.
     - Exploring coping mechanisms for managing anxiety and depressive symptoms.
     - The role of community and support in healing.
     - Understanding that activism and resistance can take many forms: Participants will explore how activism can manifest beyond physical protests, including digital advocacy, community education, art, writing, and other creative expressions of resistance. This discussion will emphasize the validity of various forms of engagement and the importance of finding individual paths to activism that align with personal strengths and capacities.
     - Navigating the Opposition or Indifference of Family and Friends: Participants will discuss experiences of alienation or lack of support from family and friends regarding their activism. This theme will help members explore feelings of isolation and provide strategies for addressing and communicating with loved ones who may not be understanding or supportive.
     - Triggers from Previous Traumatic Experiences: The group will unpack how previous individual traumatic experiences can be triggered by current events or activism, leading to feelings of anxiety and distress. Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and discuss strategies for recognizing and managing these triggers.
     - Identities: The group will explore how other marginalized identities, such as being Queer, Trans, Disabled, an Immigrant, or BIPOC, influence experiences of trauma and resistance. Discussions will center on the intersectionality of these identities and how they shape both personal experiences and collective struggles.


5. Art and Creative Expression:
   - Participants will be encouraged to engage in art and creative activities as a form of expression and processing. This may include drawing, journaling, or crafting as a way to explore complex emotions and experiences.


6. Sharing and Processing:
   - After activities, participants will have the opportunity to share their creations and discuss their significance. This sharing process allows for deeper emotional processing and connection with others who have had similar experiences.


7. Skill-Building:
   - The facilitator will introduce practical coping strategies and skills, such as mindfulness practices, grounding techniques, and self-compassion exercises.


8. Closure:
   - Each session will end with a closure activity that may involve reflection, gratitude sharing, or setting intentions for the week ahead. This helps participants leave the session feeling supported and empowered.



- The group will foster a sense of community and shared experience, reducing feelings of isolation.
- Members will learn and practice coping strategies to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Participants will enhance their emotional resilience and ability to engage in activism in a sustainable way, recognizing that activism can take many forms.
- Participants will gain tools and strategies to navigate the opposition or indifference of family and friends, fostering communication and understanding while addressing feelings of alienation.
- The group will provide a space for participants to recognize how previous traumatic experiences can trigger emotional responses and develop strategies to manage these triggers effectively.
- Members will explore and reflect on how intersectional identities influence their experiences of trauma and activism, fostering a deeper understanding of their unique struggles and strengths.


By creating a structured and supportive environment, this group aims to facilitate healing and growth for individuals impacted in the struggle, helping them to reclaim their narratives, find strength in their activism, and build resilience against the challenges posed by their social connections and personal histories.

To join this group, or to ask any questions, please email me info@deeprogramming.com

I will need to schedule an individual intake with you before you begin in the group. I accept many insurances, and sliding scale for out-of-pocket. If you have issues with payment, please let me know. 

* I will be making donations to genocide survivors with moneys from this group.