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A support group of peers can be extremely beneficial. As others share their stories, you will be able to identify with them and with many of their experiences. Their stories will help you become more in touch with yourself. In your own time, when you feel ready, you will share some of your own experiences, and in doing so, you will become more honest and accepting of yourself and others.
Pre-screening and pre-registration is required. Please call us at 408-559-9088.
This is a support group, not a therapy group therefore, a nominal level of familiarity with cognitive-behavioral methods and some initial progress in recovery is usually required before joining the group. This can be accomplished by working with one of our therapists at Anxiety Treatment Services, another cognitive-behavioral therapist, or by using the Therapy Tools available on this website.
In our support group you will feel like you belong. Being with others who understand and share your experiences produces a sense of safety and well-being. This will build your confidence and enhance your recovery.
Gradual exposure or in-vivo desensitization is a very effective approach to overcoming phobic avoidance of places or activities, for example, avoiding driving on freeways, talking to people, giving a presentation, going into stores, riding in elevators, going too far from home or in more severe cases just leaving the house at all.
It may seem scary and overwhelming to think about accomplishing these feared activities. However, through individual psychotherapy, Self Help Tools and group support you will learn to relax, stop the negative thinking and fearful anticipation, create positive self-talk and begin building confidence and positive expectation using guided visualization and mental rehearsal.
By the time you take the first small step in real life it will be relatively easy. It is often helpful to have an experienced guide with you as you practice exposure or desensitization. Someone who can remind you to use your coping skills in the moment, motivate you to push the boundaries while making sure you are doing it comfortably and not going too far, too fast.
Heidi Koronkowski, our Paraprofessional can provide this compassionate and knowledgeable assistance.
