Supporting the Supporters

Program Description

Supporting the Supporters is a therapist-led, community-based group for family members, partners, and caregivers of individuals living with serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. The group offers a space for participants to reflect, process, and build tools for navigating the emotional complexities of loving someone with a serious mental illness. Rooted in person-centered care, this group draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), parts work, and design thinking to foster emotional resilience, increase self-compassion, and improve interpersonal effectiveness. Participants will explore how to stay grounded in their own values and identities while supporting a loved one, all within a nonjudgmental and professionally facilitated environment. Using a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach, each session incorporates experiential exercises, psychoeducation, and peer connection. The program adapts to the evolving needs of participants through design thinking principles that encourage co-creation, feedback, and flexibility.

Goals of the Program

● Provide emotional support and validation to family members and caregivers● Increase psychological flexibility and reduce caregiver burnout● Strengthen communication skills and boundary-setting● Promote acceptance of what cannot be controlled, while fostering hope● Build a community of shared understanding, reducing stigma and isolation.

Facilitators

The group is facilitated by a mental health professional with experience in serious mental illness, trauma-informed care, and integrative therapeutic approaches. Participants are welcome regardless of current symptom status, provided they can participate in a group setting with minimal external support. A screening process to determine eligibility is a required component of membership.

For More Information

For more information please Contact Us.