What are some of the subjects covered in our Life Skills classes?
Content for the classes are drawn from three areas: Psychology, Neurobiology and Contemplative Practices. Subject areas include:

• What is Abuse?
• Processing Difficult Emotions
• The Science of Healthy Brain Function
• Power of Mindfulness
• Reactive Lifestyles
• Brain/Mind/Social Relationships
• Mind Body Connection
• Guilt and Shame
• Attachment Theory
• The Power of Forgiveness
• Verbal Abuse – Impact on Children
• Healthy Intimate Relationships
• Cultivation of Happiness

Is it okay to be angry?
Anger is neither "good" nor "bad"... it just IS. The only thing that is "good" or "bad" is how we deal with anger. Left unresolved, anger builds within and is often expressed in negative and unhealthy ways that can be damaging to our self and others. Since everyone gets angry at some point in time, learning to understand and express anger in a healthy way is important to resolve differences and grow.

Why is the program 26 weeks long and why a group setting?
The program is designed to enable us to have time to learn the material each week and also have time to adequately process the information prior to the next class. We believe that personal growth takes time and in order to get the full benefit we need to slowly implement change into our lives. The group format helps people to form, possibly for the first time, close and supportive friendships, as well as learn from other people's life experiences.

I'm not in an abusive relationship, will this program benefit me?
Yes, often individuals come to us who are in very functional, loving relationships. They wisely know that relationships are important in life and they want to continue to improve their relational abilities.

I would like to able to control my anger with my kids, will the program be helpful to me or is it only for people trying to improve their marriages?
This program is designed to address any issue that relates to interaction with those we love the most. We have found that children typically get the brunt of our normal frustrations in daily life. As we grow in our ability to relate with others, most certainly our relations with our children will improve. Our class participants often experience very positive parenting changes.

Do you offer a class for couples?
Yes we do offer a modified 26 – week class for couples. This program is an excellent way for couples to learn new and healthier ways of relating to one another in a group format. Couples find that the class provides a safe and supportive environment to make small yet significant changes in their relationship. Note: Before taking this course it is important that is your relationship be stable and without risk of abusive behavior.

Do I have to be in a relationship to take this course?
No, in all actuality if you are not in a relationship, this course will give you the opportunity to become the person you want to be with less distractions. When you are single, it is much easier to focus on yourself and what you need to do to grow; which puts you in a healthier place to deal with potential future relationships.