A Process Therapy Group for Parenting Neurodiverse Families
You can find information about what a process therapy group is << here >> - this information will be tailored specifically to the process therapy group for parents and carers in neurodiverse families.
The world of neurodiverse families is a beautiful, complex tapestry. It's full of unique joys, but also comes with a particular set of challenges that can often leave parents feeling isolated, misunderstood, and stretched to their limits. You might find yourself searching for a place where you can truly be seen and heard, not just as a parent, but as a person. This is where a process therapy group for parents of neurodiverse children can offer a powerful and transformative space.
You may have heard of support groups—places where people gather to share their stories and offer encouragement. While these are incredibly valuable, a process therapy group is something different. Think of it as a deeper dive. Rather than a set agenda, the focus is on the "here and now". Members bring themselves, their stories, their thoughts and feelings and we be with those. We offer our thoughts and feelings in return, we pay attention to what’s happening in the room, between the members, in real-time.
Alex Carling, trained psychotherapist, who acts as the facilitator in her process group for parenting in neurodiverse families. Rather than be the teacher, as she can be in her workshops, she guides a small group of people who are navigating similar paths. The group becomes a microcosm of the outside world, a safe, non-judgmental laboratory where you can explore how you relate to others, and in turn, how others relate to you. The conversations aren't just about sharing a story from the past week; they're about the feelings and reactions that arise in the moment, from your stories. This might sound intimidating, but it's where the most profound healing and growth happen.
For parents in a neurodiverse family, the power of a process group is immense. It's a place to shed the mask and the constant need to "have it all together." You can talk about the silent grief that comes with a different parenting journey than you imagined, the exhaustion of constant advocacy, or the fear that nobody truly understands what your family is going through. Hearing another parent say, "I feel exactly the same way," is more than just a moment of shared experience; it’s a profound act of validation that can break through the walls of isolation.
In this shared space, you can:
Feel seen and understood: The simple act of being with others who "get it" can be a balm for the soul. The group offers a mirror, reflecting your experiences and normalising your feelings.
Learn from new perspectives: You'll receive genuine, constructive feedback from people who care and are on a similar journey. This isn't about getting advice, but about hearing how your words and feelings land with others.
Develop healthier coping strategies: As you explore your reactions in the group, you learn to identify and change old patterns that no longer serve you, leading to new ways of relating and responding to the world around you.
Build a sense of community: The group becomes a supportive network where you can truly belong, reducing the shame and loneliness that can often accompany the unique challenges of parenting a neurodiverse child.
A process therapy group isn't just about managing the challenges; it's about finding strength, connection, and a renewed sense of self. It's an opportunity to discover that while your family's journey may be unique, you are far from alone. By stepping into this space, you are not only supporting your child but are also making a powerful commitment to your own well-being and personal growth.