Is there an expectation of “homework” between group sessions?
Yes! After our closing meditation, we will be given three assignments to complete before returning to group again.
1) A brief reading of a few pages. This will be a prelude to our meditation and group topic at our next session.
Example: If the upcoming topic is surrender, we may read a short poem by Rumi.
2) A reflective/meditative internal exercise. This may include journaling, inventory-taking, or a meditation relevant to our session.
Example: If the topic was self-esteem, we may have an assignment to take a five-minute daily inventory on all the things we did well throughout the day.
3) An external-action orientated exercise. This will typically be an opportunity to practice a skill or concepts from group.
Example: If the topic was boundaries, the assignment may be to say “no” once a day when we don’t want to do something that is asked of us.
Why do we have homework assignments, isn’t our group time enough?
Yes and no. We will still grow and develop if we do not complete the assignments. In that regard, the group sessions are enough. The assignments are there to help keep us focused and moving forward throughout our days. By doing these assignments, we can create individual and group momentum that may accelerate our growth. This collective energy can push us through personal or spiritual obstacles; challenges that may have been hindrances for months or even years.
What better way strengthen boundaries than to practice setting them? What better way to expand our ability to listen and understand than to consciously listen with new skills? How can we improve at taking risks without needing to take the risks first? Each group member determines the level of risk, boundary, or whatever we are working on for themselves. For one person this may mean asking a coworker out for tea, for another group member this may be asking their partner to move in with them, and for a third member it may be attending a social event they saw on Meet-up. One member of our group may excel at listening, but not feel secure in creating boundaries. Whatever the challenge may be, we will all work from where we are right now in our development. This will likely change from session to session.
What are the days and times of group?
We will meet Bi-Weekly on Mondays at 5:00 – 6:30pm.
Where will we meet?
The beautiful and peaceful Providence Institute of Contemplative Study & Natural Health!
18 Imperial Place 6A
Providence, RI 02837
How much will it cost to participate?
The fee is $45 per session. Payment is made at the time of service. I accept cash, check, debit/credit, and PayPal. Reduced fees can be arranged when possible.
I’m ready! When will we begin and how can I join the group?
We will have our first group June 3rd! If you want to join our group, please contact me directly at michael.swerdloff@gmail.com or 608-215-5675. After we connect, if we both feel like this is the right fit for you, I will send you a Group Application Form and Group Member Agreement for you to complete. And then you are in!
How long of a commitment do I have to make and what if I need to leave the group?
Since the consistency of group members is essential to the stability and development of the group, regular attendance is necessary. There is no specific time commitment, but it is not made for people to come once to “give it a try”. My instincts tell me that most members of the group will participate between six months and a year.
The process for leaving is called the “Two-Plus-Two” method. Two sessions to consider the decision out loud in group, and – if the member decides it is the right time to leave – two more sessions to process the effects of the goodbye.
Additional Information:
Personal and spiritual development groups are effective on their own or as an adjunct to individual therapy. People usually remain in group until they feel they’ve achieved the goals they set for themselves. For more information please contact Michael Swerdloff at 608-215-5675 or michael.swerdloff@gmail.com.
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