Aims of the group and retreats
• to be all we can be as men
• to develop positive attributes of men
• explore relationships
• develop communication
• improve intimacy
• be more open
• be more self aware
• be better able to express feelings and emotions
• learn to ask for what you want!
• give and receive support
• learn and practice new skills
• a friendly, relaxed, supportive and confidential group
Agreements for working together in the group and retreats
• Confidentiality
• Listening
• Respecting
• Being open and honest
• Being responsible for yourself and not for others
• Try to contribute
• Be non judgemental
• No lecturing
• No physical aggression
• Alcohol and drug free
• “I think”, “I feel” – own your own feelings
• Allow each other time – not being the “centre” of the group
• It’s ok to leave the room, indicate you need to leave, “time out”
• A speaking symbol
Content we have worked with in the group
- Relationship
- Identity
- Gender
- Sex
- Sexuality
- Loss
- Bereavement
- Grief
- Anger
- Rage
- Women’s anger
- Addiction
- Secrecy
- Fathers, sons
Structure of how we work together
- Group discussions
- Time spent in pairs, in small groups and individually
- A check-in and opening and closing circles
- Music and dance
- Practice sessions
- Walking in the woods
- Good food