Status
Available
Call number
Collection
Publication
A Final Project Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Diploma Program and Master’s Degree in Process Work, Process Work Institute, Portland, OR, 2016
Local notes
http://www.processwork.org/files/Finalprojects/Joy_M_May_2016.pdf
Abstract
This educational project describes a series of group sessions developed specifically for individuals who are dealing with serious illness. The content included both didactic and group exercises aimed at exploring the impact of a Process-Oriented support group for people with serious illness. Illness can diminish or change a person’s function or capability, affecting occupational, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and financial well-being. Those suffering from serious illness may feel overwhelmed and isolated, estranged from their familiar world and daily routine, and even from themselves. As a result, I found it important to design a group with an encouraging, curious, and compassionate atmosphere to support an emerging identity. The group setting of this Process-Oriented support group was meant to create a shared experience, a sacred space to allow participants to explore, looking more deeply into their process while others witness, supporting their experience. Sessions were held in the summer of 2015. Through this project I wanted to shine a light on identity issues arising from illness, and study the influence of community support as well as the use of processwork tools in service of personal transformation. Findings indicate that this group was able to provide a sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere for the members. This promoted a feeling of belonging for the participants and encouraged relationship. Rather than something to remain hidden, illness bought membership into this group. This was significant for those who have been experiencing loss in many areas of their lives. Processwork tools were deemed helpful in accessing one’s experience in new ways, even shifting one’s perspective from one of limitation due to illness to one of opportunity for one participant. Overall participant feedback indicated the desire of the participants to delve even more deeply into their experience.
Abstract
This educational project describes a series of group sessions developed specifically for individuals who are dealing with serious illness. The content included both didactic and group exercises aimed at exploring the impact of a Process-Oriented support group for people with serious illness. Illness can diminish or change a person’s function or capability, affecting occupational, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and financial well-being. Those suffering from serious illness may feel overwhelmed and isolated, estranged from their familiar world and daily routine, and even from themselves. As a result, I found it important to design a group with an encouraging, curious, and compassionate atmosphere to support an emerging identity. The group setting of this Process-Oriented support group was meant to create a shared experience, a sacred space to allow participants to explore, looking more deeply into their process while others witness, supporting their experience. Sessions were held in the summer of 2015. Through this project I wanted to shine a light on identity issues arising from illness, and study the influence of community support as well as the use of processwork tools in service of personal transformation. Findings indicate that this group was able to provide a sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere for the members. This promoted a feeling of belonging for the participants and encouraged relationship. Rather than something to remain hidden, illness bought membership into this group. This was significant for those who have been experiencing loss in many areas of their lives. Processwork tools were deemed helpful in accessing one’s experience in new ways, even shifting one’s perspective from one of limitation due to illness to one of opportunity for one participant. Overall participant feedback indicated the desire of the participants to delve even more deeply into their experience.