Invisible String Group Fall 2023
A special group designed for children 5-8 years old who are struggling with grief, loss, or unexpected life changes.
Kids commonly experience grief around things like the death of a loved one or beloved pet, incarceration of a family member, divorce/custody issues, or loss of an important friendship.
Using the book The Invisible String, by Patrice Karst, therapists will help the kids learn and identify that we are all connected by an invisible string. Everyone has an invisible string, and it can reach anywhere. Even though it is invisible, you can feel it with your heart. The book’s message is that no one is alone, even when their loved one is not physically present. The Invisible String group will practice noticing their individual strings and the emotions connected to them, acknowledging them, and collectively identifying strategies that help them comfort, calm, and connect in safe, healthy ways. Kids will notice that some strings may feel stronger at times than others and will practice skills to work with these feelings instead of against them when they may feel overwhelming.
Sessions begin on Tuesday, November 14, from 4:30-5:20 p.m. at the Encompass Child Development Center. We will not meet on Tuesday, December 19, or Tuesday, December 26. There will be ten sessions, with the entire course ending on Tuesday, January 30.
The Invisible String Group will be facilitated by Encompass Child and Family Therapist Janet Douglas, LICSWA, ACHt, and Encompass Child and Family Therapist Molly Steuber.
*Groups are limited to ten kids per session.
**Note: Siblings need to be in separate groups. Kids need their own space to explore some of these issues and being in the same group with a family member can stifle that process.
For more information, contact Megan Walsh at megan.walsh@encompassnw.org.
*Group therapy sessions will be billed to insurance when appropriate. Copays may apply.
For more information about Encompass, visit www.encompassnw.org.
