"Phil provides a relaxed, non-judgemental environment in which I found it surprisingly easy to discuss and tackle issues that have held me back for a long time." Dave - Compliance Manager.
Frequently Asked Questions.
What ‘issues’ do people bring?
As a participant, you are welcome to work on whatever issue you want to bring. This may be a current difficulty, like anxiety, depression or stress. Or it might be an issue from your past, like a childhood trauma. Some participants don’t decide in advance what they want to bring to the group, but instead work on whatever ‘comes up’ for them in relationship with the other men.
Who comes to the groups?
Men from all walks of life come to my groups, and the environment is extremely supportive and ‘inclusive’. All I ask is that you are 18 or over. Racist or homophobic behaviour is not tolerated in my groups.
What role does ‘the facilitator’ have?
In Person-Centred group work, the facilitator is a person who is responsible for making sure the atmosphere of the group is appropriate for personal development and constructive change. That’s it! The rest is down to the group to choose its own agenda. As the facilitator, I will not offer a structure. This is not a course. Rather I trust that you, the participants, are best able to choose the path that most appropriately meets your needs. This is, of course, a challenging environment. It’s meant to be. But as the facilitator, it is my role to make sure everybody feels supported as well as challenged.
Am I suitable for group weekends?
Most people are well placed to benefit from a Person-Centred group therapy weekend. There are some people for whom a Person-Centred group therapy weekend is not suitable. Before I accept a booking I always have a brief telephone call to ensure that a Person-Centred group therapy weekend is right for you.
What do people get from attending?
In Person centred group therapy, you learn that you are not alone in experiencing emotional problems. As a consequence participants often feel more connected to the world, and more alive. The group is a safe place where you can experiment and try to relate to people differently than you normally do. In this respect attending the group can help your self-confidence. Additionally, group therapy allows you to learn from the experiences of other people within the group. This enriches your understanding of how different people view the world and interact with others.
I'm anxious about attending, is that normal?
Yes, it's very normal. When we meet for the first time, everybody will feel anxious. It's my job though, to make sure that everybody gets to know each other really quickly.