Support Group Observations
We are often asked if it is allowable to observe our peer support groups, such as course requirements for a university master’s program.
Yes. With a few simple guidelines:
- You participate in group as a member and not as a provider, student or interested community representative.
- You identify yourself as an observer and for what you are attending our peer support group (such as a student fulfilling a class requirement, a provider interested in understanding their patients better, or a public servant in the behavioral health field).
- You DO NOT take notes or record the support group.
- You DO NOT mention anyone by name outside of group.
- You respect our implicit confidentiality by not referring to any specific story details shared by fellow members.
- We are all equal.
We do have a simple vetting process with our volunteer board, so please contact us prior to attending. Also, if any peer member is uncomfortable with your attendance at the support group, we will need to coordinate for another time you may attend.
Please don’t be concerned. To date, we’ve never turned away an observer. In fact, peer members are typically thrilled to welcome individuals who are taking their time to help make our lives better. Thank you!