1. Facilitator Training Introduction to the Model

2. Why do we need a model?
To help the facilitator avoid the negative group dynamics that can limit the success of a support group.
A support group can operate with a will of its own and take the group down an unproductive path
Sometimes a group can pull even the most experienced facilitator off course

3. Why do people go to a support group?
To leave feeling better than when they came
To feel that they contributed and that they were supported
To feel that they have something in common with others

4. What do they want at a support group?
A safe place
To not be judged
Boundaries that are enforced
Capable facilitators

5. NAMI Family Support Groups
Are led by trained facilitators, using:
Strategies
Structures
Processes
They are capable facilitators, not therapists!

6. A capable facilitator
Asks group members to agree to share responsibility for maintaining the Group Guidelines
Sustains clear membership boundaries
Clarifies goals, that is, our Principles of Support
Identifies the common issues of the group in a positive and optimistic manner
Develops communication skills that encourage group participation

7. Group Guidelines

8. Principles of Support

9. NAMI Family Support Group strategies, structures and group processes
This model assures an effective support group meeting.

10. NAMI Family Support Group model
5 Strategies
Communication skills that AID US
4 Structures
Agenda
Group Guidelines
Principles of Support
Emotional Stages
3 Group Processes
Hot Potatoes
Group Wisdom
Problem Solving

11. Five strategies Communication skills that AID US Affirm Inquire Direct
Understand
Support

12. Four structures Agenda Group Guidelines Principles of Support
Emotional Stages

13. Three group processes
Hot Potatoes
Group Wisdom
Problem Solving

14. Rules when using the NAMI Family Support Group model
Facilitators always use the Facilitator Guides
Facilitators pay close attention to the steps and cardinal rules on each guide

15. Agenda Always start and stop on time
Always start Check In with the facilitators to model the 1 to 2 minute time limit

16. Group Guidelines Don’t scold; be directive
Always model respect for the member being disrespectful
Remember, it’s normal for people to forget guidelines in support groups

17. Principles of Support
Never lecture or instruct the group about principles
Get the group talking about these universals

18. Emotional Stages Never tell a participant where they are
Always ask them what stage they think they are in
Direct the group’s attention to what the participant needs in that stage and discuss how those needs can be met

19. Hot Potatoes
Never avoid discussing a traumatic event when it comes up in a support group
Traumatic events need to be detoxified
The NAMI Family Support Group process for handling these hot topics is called Hot Potatoes

20. Group Wisdom
Group Wisdom is a process through which participants share resources and knowledge gained from past experiences
Always ask members what they know that is constructive, practical and helpful

21. Problem Solving
When doing Problem Solving, you will shift to a directive leadership style
Do not use the Problem Solving Process for illness-related symptoms or non-responsiveness to medications

22. Remember, as a capable facilitator you are present to help the group meet its needs, not to have the group help you meet yours

23. What to expect at this training
To learn by doing
To make mistakes; it’s part of the learning process
To practice the strategies, structures, and group processes outlined for you in this presentation
To have fun!
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