Secular Support Group

Sometimes, when we go to social events, we don’t really get to talk about what sorts of challenges and struggles we’re going through. Here’s a space for us to do just that. A space to share and a space to listen.

This is a peer-to-peer group for people who enjoy a secular mindset. We are unable to offer advice or treatment for mental illness. We can, however, share our own experiences for you to pull inspiration from.

We’ll be meeting at someone’s home to manage costs. Please don’t let that it is someone’s home discourage you. Your stories, experience, listening are precious. There is a dog at Lori's place.

If you are new to the group and haven't gone over the rules with us in person you must not arrive more than 20 minutes after the start time. If you are later than this, we will have to turn you away.

We will review and ask that everyone raise their hand to the following rules at every session:

• Everything said in the group is confidential. Please do not share with anyone the names or stories you learn in this room.

• We share feelings and experiences just as they are. There are no right or wrong statements. Each person knows what is best for themselves, and therefore carries the primary responsibility for their well-being during the meeting. If at any time persons need to leave or take a break, for any reason, they are free to do so.

• Everyone’s presence is appreciated and can be a source of healing for others. No one is required to speak during the meeting. Listening is a gift, too.

• When speaking, use “I” statements, rather than “we,” “you,” or “they.” Please focus on your feelings, not opinions.

• Avoid individual problem solving. Individuals can learn from one another’s experiences to solve their own problems.

• When a person speaks, the others should listen actively, with the goal of relating the speaker’s experiences to their own. Only one person should be speaking at any given time with no interruptions from others.

• Giving or asking for specific advice is deeply discouraged. It is empowering and healing for us to gather ideas that can benefit us. No one of us is an expert and no one knows what is best for another.

• The sharing that takes place is a gift to everyone in the room. Please don’t ask questions seeking more information. What each person chooses to share is appreciated and sufficient.

• At times, there may be silence during the meeting. This provides a moment to reflect on what has been shared. No one needs to feel anxious or responsible to break the silence.

• If anyone is drifting from these rules, feel free to put up a time-out signal (hands flat making a T) and see if the person realizes what they are doing and correct themselves. If not, let them finish their thought and gently explain.

The session is divided into two parts. During the first part, everyone is invited to share his or her experiences and feelings. No one should speak more than once during this time. The second part consists of open discussion where all are invited to talk about what they learned from the previous sharing.

Directions:

Lori's Place

Tuxworth Springs on Scott Boulevard
1503 Tuxworth Circle
Decatur, GA 30033

-Use the guest gate and enter 332 to call Lori for entry.
-Follow two signs for 1500 - She's in building 15. If you miss the signs, you will drive around forever!
-Guest parking is across the mail building just before building 15, or across from buildings 10, 11 & 12.
-Use the first entrance or walkway to building 15 you see.
-There are 5 steps for entry to the building.
-Unit 1503.

-Please note that there is a friendly dog that barks from time to time.

Lori's number is 404-695-6042.