NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group Facilitator Training Introduction to the Model

Why Do We Need A Model? to help navigate around the predictable negative group dynamics which can torpedo a successful group process a support group can operate much like a personality with a will of its own, and that collective group willfulness can pull even the most experienced facilitator off course

Why do people go to a support group? To leave feeling better than when they came To feel that they contributed as well as they were supported To feel in a very real way that they have something in common with others.

What do they want at a support group? A safe place To not be judged Boundaries that are enforced Capable Facilitators

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Groups Have trained Facilitators who learn and use: Strategies, Structures, and Processes. They are Capable Facilitators, not therapists!

A Capable Facilitator Asks group members to agree to share responsibility for maintaining the Group Guidelines Sustains clear membership boundaries Clarifies goals: that is, our Principles of Support Identifies the common issues of the group in a positive and optimistic manner Develops communication skills that encourage group participation.

Group Guidelines

Principles of Support

NAMI Connection Strategies, Structures and Group Processes The model that assures an effective support group meeting

NAMI Connection Model 5 Strategies Communication skills that “AID US” 4 Structures Agenda Group Guidelines Principles of Support Emotional Stages 3 Group Processes Hot Potatoes Group Wisdom Problem Solving

NAMI Connection Model 5 Strategies Communication skills that “AID US” Affirm Inquire Direct Understand Support

NAMI Connection Model 4 Structures Agenda Group Guidelines Principles of Support Emotional Stages

NAMI Connection Model 3 Group Processes Hot Potatoes Group Wisdom Problem Solving

Rules in using the NAMI Connection model Facilitators always use the Facilitator Guides Facilitators pay particular attention to the rule within the box on each Guide.

Always start and stop on time AGENDA Always start and stop on time Always start Check In with the Facilitators to model the 1-2 minute time limit.

Don’t scold: be directive GROUP GUIDELINES Don’t scold: be directive Always model respect for the member being disrespectful. Remember, it’s normal for people to forget guidelines in support groups.

Never lecture or instruct the group PRINCIPLES OF SUPPORT Never lecture or instruct the group about principles Get the group talking about these universals

Stages of Emotional Response NEVER tell people where they are Always ASK them what stage they think they are in Direct the group’s attention to what a person needs in that stage and discuss how those needs can be met.

Never avoid a “Hot Topic” when it comes up in a support group Hot Potatoes Never avoid a “Hot Topic” when it comes up in a support group “Own” a Hot Potato when it comes up in a support group. Traumatic events need to be detoxified.

Group Wisdom Always ask members what they know that is CONSTRUCTIVE, PRACTICAL and HELPFUL Group members assist each other through their lived experience

Do not use it for adherence, insight or symptom-related problems. Problem Solving When doing problem solving, you must shift to a directive, leadership style Do not use it for adherence, insight or symptom-related problems.

Remember, as a capable Facilitator: You are present to help the group meet its needs, not to have the group help you meet yours.

What to expect at this training To learn by doing To make mistakes in the beginning; it’s part of the learning process To put into practice in a very practical way the strategies, structures, and group processes outlined for you in this presentation. To have fun!