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New Therapy Groups

Coping Skills Group

This group is designed to assist the ongoing psychological rehabilitation of men and women experiencing longer-term difficulties such as chronic pain, chronic trauma reactions or other longstanding health problems, often accompanied by depressive symptoms and/or anxiety reactions. These difficulties will commonly relate to motor vehicle accidents or injuries sustained in relation to work as many particiipants are referred through the WorkCover or TAC systems. The groups apply principles from a cognitive-behavioural therapy approach supplemented by principles of positive psychology. Many participants will have previously or concurrently received individual therapy, but would be advantaged by being in a situation of recognizing that they are not on their own in relation to dealing with certain longer-term challenges.

Tuesdays 11:45 am to 12:45 pm

Taking a Step Forward Group

The TAKING A STEP FORWARD GROUP (now in its 7th year) is designed to help participants counter patterns of avoidance which relate in part to social anxiety and concerns about disapproval. Avoidant characteristics include: being easily hurt by criticism, being unwilling to become involved with others unless certain of being liked, avoiding activities which have significant interpersonal contact, being inhibited in social situations, harbouring feelings of inadequacy, being restrained in intimate relationships, and exaggerating the difficulties of acting outside of one’s usual routine. It is anticipated that this group will assist participants to be more self-accepting and to be more optimistic about their potential for change. Participants will be encouraged to set specific short-term and long-term goals to direct their ongoing efforts at change.

Wednesdays from 5:30 pm to 6:45 pm

The group runs for 10 sessions in all at 42 Villamanta St, Geelong West. The group will commence as soon as eight participants have committed themselves to attending. Follow-up groups will then be arranged after discussion with the group participants. The fee for attendance is $60 per session ($600 in total for ten sessions), approximately half of which could potentially be covered by Medicare rebates ($28 per session).

 

Both groups will be led by Chris Mackey who has 28 years' experience running such therapy groups which incorporate open discussion and some formal teaching input to enhance participants' practical use of coping skills.

 

Applications:

Please contact us on Ph: 5224-1222