Nature of the Group

 

The Still Waters Circle is a structured, 6-week psychoeducational group program designed for parents and primary caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The program is educational and skill-based in nature. It is not individual or group therapy, and participation does not constitute a therapeutic or clinical relationship between the facilitator and any individual participant.

 

Goals & Methods

 

The program uses evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) psychoeducation, Mindfulness-based practices, Behavioral activation, Somatic regulation techniques, and Relapse Prevention Planning. Content is tailored specifically to the experiences of special needs caregivers.

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Voluntary Participation

 

Your participation is entirely voluntary. You may withdraw from the group at any time without consequence. If you choose to discontinue, please notify the facilitator so the group structure can be maintained for other participants.

 

Confidentiality

 

All information shared within the group is confidential. Participants are expected to maintain the confidentiality of all other group members and what is shared in the group stays in the group. The facilitator maintains confidentiality except in cases where there is a reasonable belief of imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, where disclosure is required by law, or where a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect. Because this is a group setting, absolute confidentiality among participants cannot be legally guaranteed. Participants will be asked to formally agree to the group confidentiality agreement at the first session.

 

Limits of This Program

 

This program is not a substitute for individual therapy, psychiatric evaluation, or crisis intervention. If you are currently experiencing active suicidality, psychosis, severe dissociation, or other acute psychiatric symptoms, please contact a mental health professional or crisis service rather than, or in addition to, participating in this group. The facilitator will provide referrals as needed.

 

Benefits & Risks

 

Potential benefits include reduced stress, improved coping skills, greater emotional regulation, reduced isolation, and increased quality of life. Potential risks are mild and may include temporary emotional discomfort when discussing difficult caregiving experiences. The group environment is designed to minimize distress and maximize safety. You are never required to disclose more than you are comfortable sharing.

 

Recordings & Materials

 

Sessions will not be recorded without explicit written consent from all participants. Written materials and worksheets are for your personal use only and should not be distributed without permission.

 

Emergency Resources

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If you experience a mental health crisis at any point during or between sessions, please contact the local emergency services in jurisdiction.

 

Questions

 

You are encouraged to ask questions about this consent form or any aspect of the program before or during your participation. Contact the facilitator at any time via the contact information provided at enrollment.