This is a safe place to process experiences, exchanging support and encouragement with others who can relate with shared lived experience with chronic pain and illness, adopt simple lifestyle changes to improve function and enjoyment, also dig into deeper issues of identity, meaning, and purpose.

Members learn skills and tools for stress management, self-compassion and validation, emotion regulation, boundaries and assertive communication, pacing and energy management, goal-setting, and honoring one's body and limitations. Primary modalities used are dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy, as well as somatic approaches and Dr. Kristin Neff's Mindful Self-Compassion. There is also interactive psychoeducation and discussion around the biology and neuroscience of stress and chronic disease, pain reconceptualization, and healthy lifestyle habits.

This group is based in integrated health, drawing topics discussed fromthe  8 Domains of Wellness, including Mental, Emotional, Physical, Financial, Vocational, Spiritual, Social, and Environmental Wellness.

Initial group consult/screening is required to determine if group will be a good fit. Therapist works to cultivate a group culture of safety and shared experiences, and will be screening for appropriateness of fit for the unique culture and nuances of each group.

30-minute consult is free and scheduled prior to group enrollment. If group will be a fit, we will proceed with an intake session and then group enrollment will follow. Group is ongoing, so members will be added or may leave at any time. Generally, the group settles in and only one person comes of goes every once in a while, and a group dynamic and ongoing supportive relationships are established and fostered.

Schedule consult with Vickie Gerber at victoria.gerber@polarispartnerscc.com.