"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. Everybody is welcome ... even if you are only interested in your own personal development.
Some men attend for a specific reason. For example this may be a current difficulty, like anxiety, depression, or stress. Or it might be an issue from your past.
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.
Whatever you bring to the group, you can be assured that your experiences will be valued and your contribution welcome.
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 I facilitate the group. In other words I am the 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.
Am I suitable for group weekends?
Most people are well placed to benefit from a Person-Centred group therapy weekend. There are a very small number of men for whom a Person-Centred group therapy weekend is not suitable for example if you are extremely vulnerable right now or experiencing a psychotic process. For these men one-to-one therapy is most suited. If you are concerned about whether a group therapy weekend is right for you please feel free to contact me.
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 to make sure that everybody gets to know each other really quickly so you wont feel alone for long.
