The mothers in this group will develop the M1 belief in the whole self and M3 sense of belonging mindsets (American School Counselor Association [ASCA], 2014). Through M1 they will learn to maintain a balance between their own mental health, socialization, physical well-being, and their duties as a parent. Through M3 they will develop a sense of belonging via peer support as they share experiences and conduct community building exercises.

The behaviors that these mothers will develop include the B-LS 3 learning skill of time-management as they develop their abilities to manage their time as parents (ASCA, 2014). The next behavior will be the B-SMS 8 as they will learn to balance their home, work, and other activities. Lastly, they will develop their B-SS 6 behavior which is their ability to collaborate and cooperate as they communicate with and learn from the other moms in the group (ASCA, 2014).

These flyers and social media posts will include basic information such as ideal participant descriptions, dates, times, location, and what the participants can expect to get out of the group.

For the sake of The Balanced Moms Group pre-screening, we will distribute a questionnaire via email or mail to those that have reached out to sign up for the group.

This stage is the foundation of the group. It is when relationships and trust are built (Group Dynamics, n.d.).

In the first session, I will use icebreakers to help the group members to get to know each other. This will be something light-hearted to reduce anxiety and help the members to feel more comfortable. For example, participants could share something funny that their kids have done.

We will review the group rules together and allow the members to discuss and add to these rules together as they see fit. This helps to create a feeling of it being a safe space that they control.

I will also go over confidentiality again to ensure the members feel safe and secure with what they choose to share within the group.

Stage 2 (Norming):

In this stage the members have already become comfortable with each other and they are able to discuss more deep or intimate experiences (Group Dynamics, n.d.). This is also where they are starting to really learn the skills they have come for.

During this stage I will check in with the members periodically to ensure they feel they are getting from the group what they need. I will also continue to review learning outcomes that we have previously gone over and request for feedback as members would like to share.

In order to maintain group cohesion I will ensure to address any conflict between members in a calm and respectful way to ensure the group stays a strong, safe community where they can support each other.

Stage 3 (Closing):

As the last few meetings approach, the closing stage begins. This is when some members may become emotional due to the ending of the community they have built (Group Dynamics, n.d.). It is also where the group reviews progress and begins for planning life outside of the group.

We will, as a group, discuss the journey the members have undergone. This means they will reflect on what they have learned, what progress has been made, and where they plan to go from there. It is a celebration of their successes together.

In order to ensure the members feel they can go it alone after the group ends, we will go over follow up plans. The members will be recommended other ways they can connect with other moms and how they can support each other outside of a formal support group setting. Members may also choose to exchange contact information to stay in touch.

Even if members choose to stay connected they will still be reminded to maintain confidentiality of the group.

I have chosen this leadership style as the members are grown adults with children of their own. They do not need to be ‘babied’ and likely want to feel more in control when they frequently are at the mercy of their children and family during their everyday lives.

American School Counselor Association. (2014). ASCA mindsets & behaviors for student success: K-12 college- and career-readiness standards for every student. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/Standards-Positions/Standards/ASCA-Mindsets-Behaviors-for-Student-Success

Group dynamics. (n.d.). [PDF file]. Blackboard: Angelo State University.

Screening selection process. (n.d.). [PDF file]. Blackboard: Angelo State University.

Texas Administrative Code, Rule §681.41, General ethical requirements, 22 Tex. Admin. Code §681.41 (2019). https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=T&app=9&p_dir=N&p_rloc=191819&p_tloc=&p_ploc=1&pg=4&p_tac=&ti=22&pt=30&ch=681&rl=41

Yalom, I. D. (1995). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (4th ed.). New York: Basic Books.

Group Name: Balanced Moms Circle

The Balanced Moms Circle is a support group designed for mothers to share experiences, receive support, and learn coping strategies for balancing parenting, work, and self-care.

The group will meet every Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, starting on September 15th and ending on October 30th.

I understand that the group facilitator will keep all shared information confidential unless required by law to disclose. However, I also understand that confidentiality among participants cannot be guaranteed.

I understand that participation in this group is voluntary and that I can withdraw from the group at any time without penalty.

I understand that I may experience emotional discomfort when discussing personal experiences in the group. However, I will gain valuable support and coping skills to help manage stress and improve my home-work-life balance.

By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have read and understood the information provided above, and I consent to participate in the Balanced Moms Circle.

Participant’s Name: __________________________

Signature: _______________________________

Date: ____________________

Childcare will be supervised by staff who are experienced in working with children and who have undergone a background check.

The childcare will be provided in a nearby room, allowing easy access to children if needed.

I understand that while every effort will be made to ensure the safety and well-being of my child, the group facilitator is not responsible for the childcare services provided.

I understand that group discussions are confidential, but conversations between childcare staff and parents may not be covered under the same confidentiality protections.

Child’s Name: __________________________

Child’s Age: __________________________

Allergies or Special Needs: ___________________________________________

Emergency Contact Information: ___________________________________________

By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have read and understood the information provided above regarding participation in the Balanced Moms Circle and the on site childcare services. I consent to participate in the group and, if applicable, consent to the use of childcare services during group sessions.

Parent’s Name: __________________________

Signature (Parent/Guardian): _______________________________

Date: ____________________

What challenges are you struggling with regarding balancing work, parenting, and self-care?

What specific areas of stress management or self-care would you like to focus on?

How comfortable do you feel discussing personal parenting challenges in a group setting?

Are there any concerns or hesitations you have about participating in this group?

Have you participated in group counseling before? If so, how was your experience?

Are you able to commit to attending all the scheduled group meetings?

Do you expect any potential conflicts or barriers that might prevent you from attending?