family centreCHAPEL STREET, CASTLEBAR, CO. MAYO

family life servicescúram clainnearchdiocese of tuam

autumn / winter programme 2018

tel: 094-9025900email: info@thefamilycentre.com

monday - friday9.30 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.2.00 p.m. - 5.30 p.m.co

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website: www.thefamilycentre.com

family centre, chapel street, castlebar 2018find us on facebook

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efamily life services(CÚRAM CLAINNE)ARCHDIOCESE OF TUAM

These services, based at the Family Centre, Chapel St., Castlebar, have been established by the Archdiocese of Tuam in association with H.S.E. West and Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. Our aim is to provide support for families and individuals through counselling, education and training. This programme outlines the courses offered at the Family Centre this Autumn and Winter. You will always be most welcome to call in or phone the Centre should you require more information.

BookingAs numbers are limited for our various courses and workshops, please contact the Family Centre to ensure a place.

Insufficient EnrolmentIn the case of insufficient enrolment courses will not take place or may be postponed to a future date.

RefundsRefunds are available within two weeks before a course commences. No refunds are available once a course has begun.

CostWhile we charge for many of our educational courses our charges are intended only to cover our costs.Special concessions for the unwaged are available for our courses. We are a “not-for-profit” organization.

M’ás mian leat breis eolas a fháil faoi na cursaí seo thrí mheán na gaeilge, cuir glaoch chuig Máire Ní Dhomhnaill ag 094 9025900.

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Mindfulness For Stress ReductionMindfulness is an internationally recognised practice which has been found to be of enormous benefit to many people throughout the world. The primary purpose of this 8 week course is to teach people how to make the most of every day and to find relaxation through the practice of mindfulness. In addition to the course a CD with simple guided practices will be provided for each participant to help them to develop mindful practices and habits that can last a lifetime.

Dates: Tuesday’s - October 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th. November 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th.

Time: 7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Facilitators: Dr. Ann Caulfield & Derval DunfordDerval and Ann, are the creators of “Mindfulness Matters” and facilitate mindfulness courses to teachers, parents, children and organisations throughout the country. Together they have produced a number of mindfulness CDs. Ann is an accomplished Life and Stress Reduction Coach, Group Facilitator and Trainer. Her doctoral research was on the topic of occupational stress and mindfulness. Derval trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) at the University of Bangor. She facilitates Suí Mindfulness and Relaxation workshops locally for the HSE, Family Centres and Cancer Support Services. Her Mindfulness & Relaxation CD has been endorsed by health-care professionals nationally and internationally. For more information on the presenters and their courses seewww.mindfulnessmatters.ie

Cost: €100

personal development

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How Food Affects Your Mood

A key aspect of our emotional stability are our physical habits, the exercise we take, and the sleep we get and also the food we consume. Certain food types are now being recognised as causing instability to our brain function and emotional wellbeing while others offer us a chance to maintain a healthy, consistent mood, give us more energy and provide us with better nourishment for our bodies.In this talk we will discuss what our physical needs are in relation to a balanced mood, while also focusing on the healthy food choices we can make to enhance our brain function and emotional stability. (People with special dietary needs or restrictions should consult their GP or Dietician)

Date: Monday, November 5th

Time: 8.00 p.m. – 9.30 p.m.

Presenter: Vivianne Maloney

Vivianne is an accredited counsellor who works in the Family Centre and in private practice. She has a keen interest in self-esteem and general wellbeing and facilitates group work on such themes. She has many personal interests that help her to stay well herself including a particular interest on what types of foods we eat. Vivianne’s previous career in the fast retail and fashion industry has provided her with great experience in the challenge of finding balance between career and wellbeing.

Cost: €15

Enneagram Programme

ENNEAGRAM PART 1

An opportunity to examine different personality types, aimed to help you understand and see your own strengths and weaknesses, with a view to growth in wholeness and in relationships with others and God.

Dates: Wednesday, October 10th, Thursday 11th,Wednesday 17th & Thursday 18th

Time: 8.00 p.m. – 10.30 p.m.

Presenter: Benny McHale

Cost: €60

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Discover Your Interests with Flourish

“Do you sometimes feel lonely, isolated and disconnected from others? Do you need a chance to break in to a new network of friends and hear what’s going on in your community? Perhaps you have moved to a new area or adjusted to a new phase or change in life.

If you feel you would benefit from meeting new people and taking time out to discover how new interests, hobbies and social opportunities can enhance your health and wellbeing, this is the course for you. During this 8 week course you will:Explore and rediscover your interests, Meet new people, Go on a trip e.g. to the Linenhall Arts Centre and experience an arts workshop. Make a vision board to generate ideas for new hobbies. Find an activity you might like to get involved in. Examine steps and supports necessary to make it happen & learn practical stress management and self-care techniques including Mindfulness.

Dates: Wednesday October 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th (Break on Wed. 31st)November 7th, 14th, 21st. & 28th.

Time: 10.00 a.m – 12.00 noon.

Presenters: Maura Horkan & Vivianne Maloney

Maura is the Project Worker with the Flourish Project in the Family Centre. She is a qualified counsellor and facilitator. She is deeply committed to the idea of supporting individuals to reconnect with their interests as a natural means of self-care and deeper self-expression. Vivianne is an accredited counsellor and works with the Family Centre and in private practice. She has a particular interest in promoting self-esteem and wellbeing.

Cost: €60

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Mindful Mondays Autumn 2018 morning drop-in sessions

We are offering a weekly Mindfulness drop-in session as part of the Flourish Project which is open to adults who wish to enhance their wellbeing. This is a guided practical session in Mindfulness techniques including gentle exercise, & relaxation. No experience necessary to attend. Come and join others in this relaxed environment and take this opportunity for yourself to quieten for 45 minutes at the start of a week and learn how it can energise you for the week ahead.

Dates: Mondays Series 1: September 10th, 17th, 24th. Series 2: October 1st, 15th, 22nd. Series 3: November 12th, 19th, 26th Series 4: December 3rd, 10th, 17th. Please note there will be no Mindful Mondays on Oct. 8th, 29th or Nov 5th.

Time: 11.00 a.m. -11.45 a.m.

Presenter: Maura Horkan

Maura is a Project Worker with the Flourish Project in the Family Centre. She is a qualified counsellor and facilitator. She is deeply committed to supporting individuals to reconnect with their interests as a natural means of self-care and deeper self -expression.

Cost: Donation

Assertiveness/Communications Course

Do you find that you can’t say no when other people ask you to do things for them? Do you avoid conflict at all costs? Do you find it difficult to stand up for yourself in situations where you are being treated poorly or taken for granted?Do you react aggressively when put on the spot or criticised?Do you feel you’re overly polite and allow others to take advantage of you?

If you have said “Yes” to some of these questions then attending this 2 day Assertiveness and Communications Skills Course can help you to build your self-confidence and communication skills in a wide variety of relationships and situations in your life.

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Day 1: participants will look at what assertiveness is; examine why we find it difficult to be assertive; learn basic assertiveness skills and build your confidence.

Day 2: participants will learn advanced assertiveness skills; understand the challenges to being assertive and dealing with difficult situations. There will be a lot of opportunity to practice the skills learned over the two days.

Dates: Saturday 29th September & Saturday 6th October.

Time: 10.00 a.m. -4.00 p.m.

Facilitator: Jannah Walshe

Jannah is an experienced group facilitator, trainer and accredited psychotherapist. She writes a fortnightly column for The Mayo News and is involved in various organisations promoting positive mental health and self-development.

Cost: €80

The Arts and Wellbeing Workshop Series

The Linenhall Arts Centre and the Flourish Project at the Family Centre are delighted to team up to present this 8 week Arts and Wellbeing workshop series. It is a well-researched fact that creative engagement can impact positively on a person’s general sense of well-being. Through developing a love of music, poetry, movement art etc. we can enhance our sense of joy and improve our health. This workshop series offers participants a chance to dip their toes in the water with a range of creative arts activities. Join us for this opportunity to meet new people in a relaxed and enjoyable setting and to learn how connecting with our creative side can add surprising new dimensions to our lives, At the end of each creative session you will engage in a 15 min wellbeing section which will help you to reflect in your very own journal how the session impacted on you using mindfulness techniques and journaling.

Session 1: Introductory session with Maura Horkan.

Explore how connected or disconnected you feel to your own creativity or the arts in general. Learn some gentle mindfulness exercises & techniques that you can use to enhance your wellbeing in daily life. (location: Family Centre).

Session 2: Visual Art in conjunction with artist Emma Zuckovic’s exhibition:

Engage with the exhibition and pick up some handy tips for exploring visual art with your friends. Following the gallery visit take part in an art workshop & delve into some aspect of what you’ve seen (location: Linenhall)

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Session 3: Music/Movement with Anthony McNamee:

Explore rhythms from around the world with percussionist Anthony. Using a range of instruments create an original soundscape with some body percussion thrown in. All instruments provided. (location: Linenhall).

Session 4: Creative Writing with Jean Tuomey:

Through the use of writing prompts and poetry participants will sample writing as a creative at-hand tool. (location: Linenhall)

Session 5: Create your personal story board with Bríd Kivneen.

Using both your own and provided images, words and items, create a 3-d story board to express some aspect of importance in your life. Themes can be; goals, dreams, home or any other important area of your life. (location Family Centre)

Session 6: Print Making with Elsa O’Reilly:

Colour plays an important part in how we feel and express ourselves Explore colour and texture through simple printmaking techniques. Participants will use different tools materials and mark making techniques to create simple designs and prints.(location: Linenhall)

Session 7: Music with Anne Marie Gibbons:

An introduction to the vocal techniques and skills required to sing a song with singer Anne Marie. A step toward building the confidence to put a song across, with plenty of fun guaranteed. (location: Linenhall)

Session 8: Wrap-up Session with Maura Horkan

Take time to reflect on your journey with this course. Experience gentle mindful movement and relaxation. (location: Family Centre)

Dates: Tuesdays: September 25th, October 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rdNovember 6th, 13th, 20th

Time: 2.30 p.m – 4.30 p.m.

NB: Sessions on Tuesday September 25th, October 23rd and November 20th take place in the Family Centre.

Cost: €70. All materials provided

This series is a joint initiative between Flourish at the Family Centre and the Linenhall Arts Centre.

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Give yourself an early Christmas gift of a self-care day with Flourish

Join others in a relaxed and creative setting where you will experience some self-care activities and tools that you can use in your daily life. This morning will include gentle mindful movement relaxation, creative activities, journaling, poetry and time to rest and restore yourself. No experience necessary. It will be held at Macalla Hall, Lough Lannagh in Castlebar and will include a light lunch.

“Relax into this Autumn/Winter season” –

A time to begin to turn inwards and give yourself space to rest and receive nourishment in a relaxed setting. Take this time with others to discover what you need in your life at this time and engage a creative and enjoyable morning.

Date: Friday November 23rd 2018

Time: 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.

Facilitators: Maura Horkan & Loretta Bracken

Maura is the project worker with the Flourish Project in the Family Centre. She is a qualified counsellor and facilitator. She is deeply committed to the idea of supporting individuals to reconnect with their interests as a natural means of self-care and deeper self-expression. Loretta is an accredited psychotherapist who works in the Family Centre as well as working in industry. She has many additional qualifications & courses completed over the years including art therapy. She has a keen interest in accompanying people on a journey to self discovery through art, meditation and mindfulness. Thus allowing people to create a space to re-connect with ourselves with gentleness and compassion.

Cost: €40 (including lunch)

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Exploring Your Creativity in an Inter-cultural Setting

This series of four workshops aims to unite diverse inter-cultural groups in an exploration of the unique meaning of home to each individual. It hopes to bring together people of diverse communities to explore and share feelings and ideas through art in order to promote a more cohesive and self-aware community, and open the possibilities for developing friendships and networks. As a result of this exploration over the four weeks, each individual will produce art work to display for themselves.

Week 1.

The first session will be an introduction to the theme of the workshop and to the varieties of media possibilities in which these themes might be expressed, some examples of past media pieces will be displayed and explained. The time will also provide an opportunity for people to get to know each other and to share and develop their ideas through discussion within the group.

Week 2.

This session will explore the methods by which participants might develop and express their feelings, memories and ideas. Participants will be encouraged to bring in photographs and small memorabilia and sample various options like fabric painting, collage, painting on canvas and 3dl making.

Week 3 & 4:

These sessions will consist of developing each piece of art. This will be an intensive period in which the facilitator will both support and advise, while allowing the development of individual work.

Dates: Tuesday October 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd.

Time: 10.00 a.m – 12.00 noon.

Facilitator: Bríd Kivneen

Bríd Kivneen is an experienced facilitator of community arts and music projects, often bringing groups together to perform or exhibit their work. Bríd’s artwork is mainly textile, she works with paint, silk, collage and 3-D. Her music is both traditional and intercultural.

Cost: €40

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“I want to know if you will stand in the centre of the fire with me”In this workshop Bettina will facilitate a day of reflection of the beautiful words in this poem. She will help participants explore the beautiful words through writing, journaling, in silence etc. and discover how it relates to our personal life and what we are going through in our present life.

The InvitationBy Oriah Mountain Dreamer

It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for and if you dare to dream of meeting your

heart’s longing.

It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the

adventure of being alive.

It doesn’t interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the centre of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life’s betrayals or have become shrivelled and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it, or fade it, or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own; if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips

of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, be realistic, remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn’t interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself.

If you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul. If you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see Beauty even when it is not pretty every day. And if you can source your own life from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand at the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the

full moon, ‘Yes.’

It doesn’t interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up after the

night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone and do what needs to be done to feed the children.

It doesn’t interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the centre of the fire with me

and not shrink back.

It doesn’t interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you from the inside

when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.

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Dates: Thursday, November 15th & Thursday 22nd.

Time: 7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Presenter: Bettina Peterseil

Bettina is a facilitator and a writer and she has facilitated many “soul” writing workshops within the community in the past. She loves to inspire others to find the answers to their deepest questions inside themselves with the help of the simple tool of writing and poetry. She recently published her own compilation of poetry titled “For crying out loud - voice of an exile”

Cost: €50

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Inner Child WorkshopOur inner child lives on in our consciousness as a real force of life, a true present moment reality. The child is the carrier of our personal stories and the vehicles for past memories. As a way of coping with pain and needs that weren’t fulfilled we often disconnect from the part of us that is hurting. This happens particularly with trauma where we disassociate and become deeply disconnected. Many of us struggle with unspoken fear, worry and anxiety. These symptoms show up in the body as butterflies, tensions, restrictions, and usually have their origin in childhood experience. Whatever is repressed earlier on tends to reappear in later life.The main focus of this workshop is to acknowledge and validate the wisdom of the “child within” Making this connection enables us to tap into our creative potential to heal and to reclaim our essential essence. Using gentle techniques, learn to create a safe inner space, a place to come home to.Philomena believes the child self holds the key to healing, it doesn’t happen all at once, it is a process. She believes as we all grow older it is possible to become more and more a child at heart, more curious, spontaneous, and playful and experience a felt sense of that vitality. Once we commit to taking care of ourselves in this way new options emerge, we can engage with life with more self -awareness, more vitality and trust. Join other’s on this journey of discovery…This two day workshop is for anyone who is interested and taking time to explore the richness of their inner child.

Dates: Saturday, September 22nd & Sunday 23rd.

Time: 10.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Presenter: Philomena (Phyllis) Hunt

Philomena Hunt (Phyllis) trained as a Person Centered Counsellor in 2000 and went on to complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Gestalt Psychotherapy. In recent years she has trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for the treatment of trauma. In 2015 Philomena started studying with Dr. Stephanie Mines, the creator of the TARA approach for the treatment of shock and trauma. This is based on Jhin Shin Therapy an ancient Japanese touch therapy system working on the energetic pathways of the body. Dr. Mines has integrated this with Western Psychology and Neuroscience to create the TARA approach. Philomena currently works on a contract basis part time with the HSE Counselling in Primary Care Service, and in private practice as a Therapist and Supervisor. As part of her own healing process she has started using her original name of Philomena again

Cost: €100

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Family and Parenting

Building Resilience and Positivity in your Children.

Does your child lack resilience? Does your child focus primarily on their failures rather than on their successes? Does your child find it difficult to deal with challenging emotions?This one day course for parents and teachers will help you to understand how mindsets become established and how, by understanding the science of how the brain works, you can change unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour in your child to create a more positive outlook on life. ‘Knowledge is power’ and understanding how mindsets work is the first step towards creating more resilience, optimism, wellbeing and emotional self-awareness and regulation in your child. The course will also include lots of practical tips and skills to bring what you learn in the course directly into your family life.

Date: Saturday October 20th

Time: 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.

Presenters: Steve Lane and Breda Kyne

Steve is a former primary school teacher with 35 years’ experience, 25 years of which were as a Principal. Breda is an educational outreach and training consultant based in Galway. Steve and Breda are the founders of MindSETs training (www.mindsets.ie) which they established in 2016 to meet the growing demand for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programmes in Ireland. In addition to providing bespoke training courses, Breda and Steve are the only 2 accredited MindUP™ trainers in Ireland. MindUP™ is the flagship programme of the Hawn Foundation which fosters skills of resilience, optimism, empathy and emotional self-regulation in children.

Cost: €60

Understanding and supporting a child with anxieties.In today’s world anxiety is fast becoming a real concern for parents/ guardians and teachers. In this workshop Dr. Sharyn Byrne will look at:• Understanding the human brain• Understanding what happens in an anxious brain• Using a model to explain the behaviours associated with an anxious brain• Experiential learning on how parents can engage with their children when they’re experiencing anxiety/ worry.

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Common Sense Parenting Programmefor Children attending Primary or Secondary School (6 week programme for 6 to 16 year olds)

We are running a 6 week skill based parenting programme for parents of children attending either Primary or Secondary School (6 to 16 year olds) and will run on Tuesday mornings from 10.00am – 12 noon. The programme aims to give parents/guardians the skills and tools necessary to help their children have good boundaries. We also aim to help the parents/guardians equip themselves with the skills to manage challenging or difficult situations with their children as they grow up.

Dates: Thursdays, September 20th, 27th, October 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th.

Time: 10.00a.m. - 12 noon.

Facilitators: Teresa Quinn & Vivian Moran

Vivian is a Project Worker with Tusla in The Edge Project. Vivian previously worked in Canada in the area of family support and children in care for a number of years. Her current role in Tusla involves working with families and young people aged 8 – 17 years in a family support setting throughout Co. Mayo.Teresa is the Manager for The Early Years Family Support Service & The Edge Project with Tusla, She has many

There will be an opportunity for a Q & A session, with recommendations on useful reading resources for concerned parents.

Date: Tuesday October 9th.

Time: 10.00a.m. – 12.00 noon.

Presenter: Dr. Sharyn Byrne.

Dr Sharyn Byrne is Senior Clinical Psychologist in the Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services in Castlebar. She has worked in CAMHS for the last six years and enjoys early intervention and preventative work with children and families. Most of her work (80%) is with the system around the child e.g. within the family and/or school. She is trained as an Attachment-based Family Therapist, providing specialist intervention in childhood trauma, and attachment. She has worked predominantly in Adult Mental Health prior to 2012.

Cost: Free of Charge

We plan to repeat the same workshop on Wednesday November 7th 7.30pm – 9.30p.m. to accommodate those that cannot attend during the day. Booking essential, please contact the centre for more information.

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Common Sense Parenting Programme 2for Children attending Primary or Secondary School (6 week programme for 6 to 16 year olds)

Dates: Tuesdays, November 13th, 20th, 27th December 4th, 11th, 18th.

Time: 10.00a.m. - 12 noon.

Facilitators: Teresa Quinn & Deirdre WardTeresa is the Manager for The Early Years Family Support Service & The Edge Project with Tusla, She has many years’experience of working with children & supporting families in Co. Mayo.Deirdre is a social care leader with The Edge Project. She has recently moved to Mayo from Dublin where she worked with young people and their families for a number of years. In The Edge Project, Deirdre works with young people(aged 8 – 17 years) throughout County Mayo.

Cost: €20 (for the skill book)

These programmes are a joint initiative between the Family Centre and Tusla.

We are running a 6 week skill based parenting programme for parents of children attending either Primary or Secondary School (6 to 16 year olds) and will run on Tuesday mornings from 10.00am – 12 noon. The programme aims to give parents/guardians the skills and tools necessary to help their children have good boundaries. We also aim to help the parents/guardians equip themselves with the skills to manage challenging or difficult situations with their children as they grow up.

Internet Safety And Cyber BullyingInternet safety and cyber bullying are two of the biggest concerns facing parents, teachers, students and young children in the modern age. This seminar will help to raise the awareness of parents and school staff on a range of important topics including: The dangers of using social media, Cyber bullying, Internet predators, Safe use of apps, Cyber Theft, etc. The programme will show what children & teenagers get up to on the internet and you will receive practical advice on parenting in the modern age and how to monitor internet activity as well as lots of practical solutions.

years’ experience of working with children & supporting families in Co. Mayo.

Cost: €20 (for the skill book)

Support Group For Parents Of Children Who Have Been Sexually Abused

For the past several years the Family Centre has facilitated a monthly support group for parents who have had to deal with the reality of their child/children having been sexually abused. The group is now open to new parents joining their monthly support meetings. The group meets on a highly confidential basis where parents are enabled to support each other in a respectful way that helps to overcome the isolation many people feel with this issue. The group is facilitated by Family Centre Counsellors.

Anyone interested in attending or receiving more information about the group should contact Michael Burke, Senior Clinical Psychologist or Máire Ní Dhomhnaill, Director in confidence on 094 9025900.

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Date: Wednesday October 24th

Time: 7.00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Presenter: Trisha O’Sullivan, MA (DevSt), B.Sc.

Trisha has over twenty years work experience in the following industries: IT, Education, and Project Management, and has worked in Ireland, the UK, Africa and Tonga. Trisha is also a parent to 3 ‘online’ teenagers and is very aware of the massive challenges facing parents and schools in trying to keep our children safe on social media and the internet. Trisha has a particular interest in social media and how it is affecting today’s young generation.

Cost: €20

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Suicide bereavement support group

The Family Centre are offering a 6 week support group for individuals who are affected by death through suicide. The group aims to be a safe, non-judgmental and confidential place where people who have been bereaved through suicide can learn to cope as best they can.

Dates: Tuesday’s September 25th, October 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th.

Time: 8.00 p.m. – 10.00 p.m.

Facilitators: Fiona Thomas & Paula Sheridan

Contact: Fiona Thomas, Counsellor on 094 9025900 at the Centre prior to booking.

Cost: Donation

loss and bereavement

The Rainbows ProgrammeRainbows is a peer support group programme which supports children who have suffered a significant loss through death, separation, or divorce. It is available for children and young people from seven years to eighteen years of age. This is a new 9 week programme and requires all parents/guardians to attend the information evening.

Information Meeting for Parents/Guardians

The information evening will be held on Wednesday 26th September at 7.00p.m.

The Family Centre Rainbows Programme commences on:

Dates: Wednesdays, October 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, November 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th,December 5th.

Time: 6.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m.

Led by: Trained Rainbows Facilitators

Cost: Free of Charge

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Anam Cara

Anam Cara is a national organization who supports parents and families after the death of a child of any age and through any circumstance. They are holding two information evenings in Mayo this Autumn.

Venue: Family Centre, Castlebar.

Dates: Thursday 20th September Thursday 15th November

Time: 7:30pm-9:30pm

Cost: Free of Charge

Monthly Suicide Bereavement Support Group

For those who have previously attended our weekly Suicide Bereavement Support Groups over the years the Family Centre offers a follow up monthly support group for individuals who are affected by death through suicide. The group will provide a safe and confidential place to help you on your journey of grief and loss.

Dates: Thursdays, September 27th, October 25th, November 29th & December 20th.

Time: 8.00 p.m. - 10.00 p.m.

Facilitators: Fiona Thomas & Paula Sheridan

Cost: Donation

Contact: Fiona Thomas, Counsellor on 094 9025900 at the Centre prior to booking.

Ecumenical Service for those Bereaved through Suicide

This is an opportunity for members of the community to support those families in our midst that have been bereaved through the death of somebody they loved through suicide. It is also a time for families to remember their loved ones and commemorate their lives. There will be light refreshments following the service.

Date: Friday, November 9th.

Time: 7.30 p.m.

Venue: Church of the Holy Rosary, Chapel Street, Castlebar

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professional training

Understanding and Managing Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common sources of psychological distress. Yet despite being widespread, it often remains a perplexing experience that people find difficult to both understand and manage. This workshop will explore just what anxiety is, how it manifests in our body and mind, often in a myriad of different ways, the disorders that can arise from anxiety and the most effective ways to bring it under control.This presentation is intended for psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and similar therapists.

Date: Friday October 12th

Time: 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.

Presenter: Kevin Fehin: Senior Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist.

Kevin is currently employed in the Adult Mental Health Service with the HSE. Among other qualifications he holds a Masters in Psychoanalytic Studies and is trained and a trainer in both DBT and Schema Therapy.

Cost: €80

When Progress Seems Slow

There are times in the helping profession when we feel stuck and unable to move forward. Dr Marsha Linehan, a research Psychologist based in Seattle was interested in exploring why therapy and therapeutic interventions were not always effective for some clients. She noted common sets of behaviour patterns that emerged in the therapy room. These patterns caused dialectical dilemmas for both client and health professional. Her theories helped her formulate the therapeutic approach called Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

This workshop will outline her findings and how she developed DBT as a result. The practical DBT skills will be introduced and also strategies for when: 1) people frequently engage in problematic behaviour 2) people frequently refrain from engaging in effective behaviour. It will provide an opportunity to reflect on what may be going on for clients and what is being communicated to you. This workshop is suitable for counsellors, psychologists, social workers and other related professions.

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Breaking the Ties of ShameThese two days are intended for therapists, psychologists, psychotherapists, family support workers, social workers and other health care professionals. Each day is a stand-alone workshop. These workshops go beyond the theory, while there will be some theory inputs, most of the material will be explored through experiential exercises. CPD certificates by request.

Part 1 – Understanding Shame

In part 1 Jess will try to cast some light on our shame and deconstruct our internal working model that we are not good enough. She believes that shame is so deep rooted and hidden that we must first experience it for ourselves to help our clients. This workshop will explore: how toxic an emotion shame can be; how shame can keep us small and in the shadows; how it can keep us from seeking help and from being seen; how shame or the internal belief that I am not good enough gets layered on usJess will also examine the differences between shame and guilt and how some people are more prone to shame and some are more prone to guilt. We can inherit shame based beliefs from previous generations, through our culture, through growing up in shame based families, through abusive experiences such as bullying or abusive relationships. The victim in such relationships take on the shame of the abuser so those beliefs turn into a shame based identity.

Part 2 – Working with shame

In part 2 having explored the sources of shame in the first workshop this will be an opportunity to explore shame in more depth. In particular this day will focus on what our triggers are relating to shame. It will look at how shame can get played out in one to one relationships with our clients and learn some skills/exercises that we might use to uncover hidden sources of shame.

Dates: Part 1: Saturday, November 3rd Part 2: Saturday, November 24th

Date: Friday October 5th

Time: 10.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Presenter: Yvonne McCaffrey

Yvonne is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with P.S.I. She is also an Accredited Counsellor and Supervisor with I.A.C.P. Yvonne has 20 years experience working in the area of counselling in the HSE.

Cost: €80

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faith and spirituality

Monthly Meditation Group

Monthly Meeting Group: This will be offered on the first Tuesday of each month from September. Using audio visual aids, it will include teaching on Meditation / Centering Prayer.

Dates: Tuesdays, September 4th, October 2nd,November 6th, December 4th

Time: 7.30 p.m. – 8.45 p.m.

Presenter: Maura Flynn R.S.M.

Counsellor/Prayer Guide

Cost: Free of charge

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Strengthen Your FaithBy studying the Catechism of the Catholic Church our Faith is revived and renewed, leading us to Christ and life in Him. It teaches the Faith clearly, fully and unambiguously. The course will have 12 sessions

Time: 10.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.

Presenter: Jess Angland, (MBS, BBS, Cert in Addiction, Cert in Counselling, Cert in Supervision)

Jess has worked in training and education for the last 20 years. She has worked in organisations in healthcare, community development, as well as lectured for the National College of Ireland, IADT and UCC on their Professional Development Programmes. She currently, and for the last 9 years, has held responsibility for the development of support groups within ADAPT domestic abuse services in Limerick City and County. Jess in the past 5 years has taken an active interest in the dynamics of attachment in Adult Life and has explored same, under the tutelage of Dr Úna Mc Cluskey.

Cost: €75 for one workshop or €140 for both workshops

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1covering an introduction to Morality with emphasis on conscience and virtues.

Dates: Tuesday’s beginning September 18th with an introductory talk.

Time: 7.30 p.m.

Venue: The Monastery, Chapel St., Castlebar.

Facilitator: Liam Sadler

Liam is a retired teacher who has facilitated this programme for some years. The course was originally designed and organised by the Maryvale Institute, Birmingham and introduced into Ireland on a country wide basis at the Eucharistic Congress in 2012. (Spiritual Director: Fr. Seán Cunningham).

Cost: €25 to cover the cost of the notes and the Catechism.

For information and booking contact Liam directly on 098 25220 or 087 2639726

Nurturing the SoulLet the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground (Rumi)

This day is an opportunity to refresh tired spirits with a day of mindful presence and attention. Whether you are a beginner or have years of practice on the spiritual path it is always important to take time to reconnect with the soul’s deepest longing and to experience the spaciousness that comes with this. Throughout the day we will use guided exercises, meditative practices and sacred poetry to explore what it means be present in body, mind and spirit, to find the sacred within the ordinary and to carry that sense of mindful presence with us when we leave.

Date: Saturday October 13th

Time: 10.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.

Facilitator: Anne F. O’Reilly MA Theology, PhD. MA Creative Writing, MA Modern Drama.

Anne brings to this work many years of diverse training in spiritual development, voice, poetry by heart, sacred clowning, drama and meditation. She has over forty years’ experience of teaching both in academic and community contexts. Since her retirement as senior Lecturer in Religious Studies at St Patrick’s College Drumcondra, Anne has been facilitating workshops which explore the languages of the heart through poetry, creative writing and mindfulness practices. She is the author of the academic study Sacred Play: Soul Journeys in Contemporary Irish Theatre (Carysfort Press 2004) and is also a published poet.

Cost: €60

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• Individual/Marital/Family/Counselling• Mediation • Support Groups • Bereavement Care• Spiritual Guidance • Flourish - Social Prescribing Project • Mayo Suicide Bereavement Liaison Service (MSBLS) • Spring & Autumn Education Programmes

please refer to separate brochure, website or contact the centre.

for information on our other support services which include:

Family Life Services - enabling and empowering families

and individuals to develop their own resources for more creative

and effective living

We are keen to develop courses and support programmes in response to real needs. Should you have any

suggestions, ideas, advice to offer, please send them to:-

Máire Ní Dhomhnaill, Director, Family Centre, Chapel Street, Castlebar.

Telephone: 094 - 9025900 E-mail: info@thefamilycentre.com

Website: www.thefamilycentre.com

Car parking is generally available in the Church car park immediately opposite the Family Centre. The cost of parking is €2 irrespective of the length of time you have been parked there. At night

time there may be free parking along Chapel Street.