Group programs
Mindfulness
Mindfulness for Daily Living is an experiential course in mindfulness meditation. In this context, mindfulness is Buddhist in origin: however, as mindfulness is relevant universally, mindfulness is relevant beyond Buddhism. Mindfulness will be used as an approach to stress, pain, and illness. Participants will engage in three forms of mindfulness meditation: sitting meditation, the body scan, and yoga. This is a group program involving up to 25 people. Aside from the first class where participants are encouraged to speak, there is no requirement to speak. Homework 30 to 45 minutes daily, six days a week is expected. The learning is experiential; one must take the time to practice mindfulness in order to benefit.
Group times and dates will be posted here as they become available.
The course is an educational program. The course does not replace therapy, although the effects of the program may be profoundly therapeutic. Participants are expected to continue their care with their mental health provider or doctor (if they have a mental health provider or doctor).
The course is modeled after the Stress Reduction Program founded by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979 at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. This program is described in Jon Kabat-Zinn’s best-selling book, Full Catastrophe Living
"We routinely and unknowingly waste enormous amounts of energy in reacting automatically and unconsciously to the outside world and to our own inner experiences. Cultivating mindfulness means learning to tap and focus our wasted energies. In doing so, we learn to calm down enough to enter and dwell in states of deep relaxation. This nourishes and restores body and mind. …In addition it helps us to channel our energy more effectively in stressful situations, or when we are feeling threatened or helpless. This energy comes from inside us and is therefore always within our reach and potential control." ( Jon Kabat-Zinn)
ASAP Group
What is ASAP Group?
ASAP stands for ‘Assess, Support and Prepare’ or alternatively, ‘As Soon As Possible’.
It is a drop-in mental health support group available for those who are awaiting psychiatry appointments and who would like to get started right away. Dr. Mary Gisslow will facilitate the group.
When and where?
The group will meet in the conference (meeting) room at SHS clinic every Monday from 2:30 to 3:30 pm.
Who may attend?
This group is available to anyone who is awaiting an appointment with SHS Psychiatry.
Why would I want to attend?
In addition to being immediately available, this group will give members an opportunity to ask any questions they might have about their mental health, medication, etc. It will provide an opportunity to get support from, and be supportive of, others. As well, it may help clarify treatment goals and help individuals prepare for more in-depth therapy.
Do I have to commit to a specified number of sessions?
The group is drop-in, so you may attend one or more sessions. We do ask that you stay for the entire (one hour) session if you do attend. There is no limit to the number of sessions you may attend.
What can I expect?
The content will depend somewhat on the interests of those in attendance that session.
We will likely be talking about anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, and other common concerns.
How many people will be there?
The number of people varies week to week, but likely there will be no more than 8–10 per session.
Will I have to talk about my problems?
You can say as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Confidentiality is a tenet of the group.
Does this affect my standing on the waitlist?
No, you will be contacted and offered a psychiatry appointment when one is available.
Other questions?
Please feel free to contact Dr. Mary Gisslow at Student Health Service.
