Group Programs
Client Services offers a variety of group-based programs addressing the complex needs which can arise for individuals after brain injury.
We also create some customized groups for individuals who are experiencing similar journeys. These groups consist of 4-6 people who meet to discuss the experience of having a brain injury, learn and share post-injury strategies, and re-envision life after injury. Customized groups are held off-site and are by invitation only, as we work carefully to bring together clients with similar situations such as stage of injury, family dynamics, career history, etc.
NOTE: CLIENTS MUST PRE-REGISTER to attend group programs.
TO REGISTER FOR A GROUP PROGRAM or MAKE AN INQUIRY ABOUT A CUSTOMIZED GROUP, please call 250-762-3233, or send us an email.
Gentle Yoga and Meditation
Kelowna
The Yoga for Relaxation group is an opportunity for individuals at all levels of skill or experience to participate in a gentle, restorative yoga practice. In this class, the focus is on holding fewer poses for longer periods of time. Props are used to assist you with the poses, allowing you to completely relax and let go.
Benefits of participating in yoga for relaxation include:
- enhanced flexibility
- deep physical relaxation
- stills the mind
- soothing to the nervous system
- develops qualities of compassion and understanding toward others and self
- enhances mood state
This class is led by volunteer yoga instructor, Bonita Summers, and our Group Programs Coordinator. They provide a safe, nurturing environment tailored to the individual needs of those with brain injury.
This class will be of interest to those who:
- experience anxiety
- have difficulty quieting the mind
- struggle with balance, coordination, or flexibility
- have difficulty sleeping
This class takes place in a large, quiet space at the BrainTrust Canada offices. Yoga mats are provided. Class size is kept small.
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
Return to Balance
Kelowna
This group is based on balancing five pillars of wellness - the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of ourselves. Concepts covered in the group include:
- redefining self after brain injury
- adjusting to the 'new you'
- identifying what gives you meaning in your life
- tools and coaching for optimal living
- relationship strategies
The Return to Balance Group provides many opportunities to participate and share both successes and challenges. In hearing each other's stories group members find that they are not alone in navigating life with a brain injury. Strong friendships are often formed as both self-esteem and self-awareness increase.
This group is suitable for those who are:
- struggling to let go of their former life
- having difficulty understanding or accepting their brain injury
- seeking greater empowerment in their life
- wanting to be more social
- wanting support in learning how to regulate their emotions
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
Healing Art
Kelowna
The Healing Art Group meets weekly to explore opportunities for self-expression through art. This group is led by our Group Programs Coordinator and guest volunteers who provide participants an opportunity to become familiar with a variety of art materials and forms of artistic expression through a discovery-oriented approach. It is based on the understanding that anyone can be creative in some form or another - no previous art experience is necessary. Participants keep a collection of their work in a personalized mixed media art journal.
Members of the art therapy group have done such things as:
- painted abstract images on canvas
- learned to use alcohol inks
- experimented with creating Picasso-style cubist portraits
- collaborated as a group to create one abstract painting
The Healing Art Group is of interest to those who:
- are interested in 'playing' with art materials
- would like to discover their creative side
- want to share time with others in a friendly, supportive environment
- want a unique way to relieve stress
- had previous experience with any form of art (though this is definitely not required)
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
Peer Support Group
Kelowna and Vernon
The Peer Support Group is an opportunity to meet with other individuals with brain injury to discuss and share experiences that are related to both brain injury and the community at large. The content and activities of the group evolve with its members.
Participants in the peer support group may:
- receive resources and information for coping with life after brain injury
- examine and share new research in neurology
- host a guest speaker or attend a lecture in the community together
- co-facilitate a session for the other members of the group on a topic of shared interest
The Peer Support Group would be of interest to those who:
- had a professional career prior to their injury
- have an interest in current brain research
- are interested in 'paying it forward' by contributing in some way to the field of brain injury
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
Cognitive Enhancement Group
Kelowna and Vernon
The Cognitive Enhancement Group provides an opportunity for individuals with brain injury to receive assistance with cognitive rehabilitation in a group setting. It focuses on socializing, discussing community events/news, and participating in games which challenge one's thinking. It's also a safe space for individuals with acquired brain injuries to build relationships with others who have shared experiences.
Activities are tailored as much as possible to the needs of the group members, and address cognitive deficits that occur after brain injury such as:
- impaired attention
- decreased concentration
- easy distractibility
- impaired memory
- poor judgment
- poor executive function (goal setting, problem solving, time management, managing day-to-day tasks)
The Cognitive Enhancement Group fits those at any stage of recovery following brain injury whether the individual is newly diagnosed or sustained a brain injury years ago.
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
Walking Group
Vernon
Walking is a form of exercise that can help improve brain function as well as improve overall health, balance, and coordination. This group meets weekly at Polson Park and is an opportunity for individuals to get connected with the environment while building relationships with others who have shared experiences.
The Walking Group is of interest to those who:
- want to improve their physical wellness
- enjoy being outdoors
- are looking for companionship and opportunities to socialize
Potential benefits of the walking group include:
- improved balance and coordination
- improved cognitive function
- stress relief; uplifted mood
Clients must pre-register to attend this group.
For more information or to inquire about joining a group program
contact Gillian Games
Group Programs Coordinator, BrainTrust Canada