Welcome to Groups

Here’s a solid one-page visual for sessions. It breaks down the difference between self-esteem (performance-based) and self-compassion (acceptance-based).

Unlike self-esteem, which often depends on external validation or comparison, self-compassion fosters resilience by emphasizing kindness toward oneself, even in failure.

Looks great for clients who are hard on themselves or feel stuck chasing perfection

https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/portlandpsychotherapy/pages/106/attachments/original/1467233026/self-esteem_versus_self-compassion.pdf?1467233026

Although originally written with young people in mind, this art activity is adaptable and appropriate for all age groups. Its structured, creative format can support self-reflection and discussion in both individual and group settings. Consider incorporating it into your work. It offers a simple but effective way to engage participants across a wide age range.

CLICK PIC BELOW for PDF:

This week’s free resource is a creative spin on one of the most widely used evidence-based practices out there—Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

DBT Visual Review Flash Cards - This printable PDF includes colorful, easy-to-follow flash cards for core DBT skills:

• Mindfulness

• Distress Tolerance

• Emotion Regulation

I found this free Self-Care Wheel resource to help support group members on their wellness journey. It includes a completed example and a blank version so clients can personalize it based on their own needs. It’s simple, accessible online, and a great tool to spark reflection and start meaningful conversations about self-care in group.

LINK for free download (PDF) - https://www.buckner.org/files/uploads/SelfCare-wheel.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawLiyZpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExNDd1Ym9RQklSSXF1MnpoAR5zFwvMeHZKbinVEtBW_Gv0IwawbdXcR6MvKAEPaFWaqQmyTrcJSHRXZBR6Xg_aem_AGNOSbqKjkohhdLPVfdLdw

Vacations are meant to be relaxing—but for those in treatment, they can also be filled with unexpected triggers and pressure. Whether it's the lack of routine, the proximity to alcohol, or just being out of your comfort zone, staying sober while traveling takes preparation.

That's why we’re sharing this practical, encouraging handout:“9 Tips to Stay Sober on Your Vacation”

This quick-read PDF covers everything from:

• Picking the right destination

• Scheduling fun activities

• Packing your personal recovery “toolbox”

Looking to sharpen your MI skills or get a quick refresher on the basics? This free Motivational Interviewing Cheat Sheet from the MI Center for Change is a concise and practical tool covering core strategies like:

• OARS (Open Questions, Affirmations, Reflective Listening, Summaries)

• Change Talk vs. Sustain Talk

• The Spirit of MI

• Tips for building engagement and collaboration

Great for therapists, peer workers, or anyone wanting to improve how they support change.

(Getting too many emails- change your settings on the group page of this website)

I came across this free resource online and thought it was too good not to pass along. This downloadable PDF is packed with creative, youth-friendly confidence-building exercises originally developed by the Polk Mentoring Alliance.

While it’s geared toward mentoring and school settings, many of the activities are easily adaptable for therapy groups, one-on-one sessions, or personal journaling—especially with adolescents and young adults.

You’ll find tools like:

• Prompts to boost self-worth

• Creative art and identity activities like “Self-Portrait” and “My Personal Shield”

(Getting too many emails? - adjust your settings on the Group page of this website)

Sharing a great free resource: Brene Brown’s powerful list of emotions and feelings—a helpful tool for building emotional awareness and language in recovery and beyond.

87 Human Emotions & Experiences - Based on the research of Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

LINK - https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:49e3ad0b-9d2b-4f12-a17b-28330f98ed0d

If anyone happens to be at the New Jersey Prevention Network yearly Addiction Conference today or tomorrow, please stop and say hello if you see me!