2020 - How did that happen?

I hope it's not too late to wish you all a very Happy New Year!  I work on the basis that if I haven't seen someone it's never too late - So HELLO to 2020!

By the time you receive this newsletter, we will no longer be part of Europe but we will be heading towards longer days and a little more light even if the weather is a little dank and dreary as I write. Spring brings the promise of regeneration and refreshment - which is much needed.

IN THIS NEWSLETTER

We have a number of items in this newsletter that may be of interest summarised in brief below.  Click on the links to take you through to the full details.

INTRO TO: The Dyslexia Aware Therapeutic Approach

Talking about refreshment and regeneration - this introductory course is our flagship 3-day workshop taking place this spring on Wednesday 15th, Thursday 16th and Friday 17th of April - taking place just after Easter. It's aimed at professionals (counsellors, managers, teachers, psychologists, Senco's, working with or interested in neurodiversity).

We still have a couple of spaces free so, if you are a professional working in this field and want to understand how dyslexia impacts on the emotions, and develop strategies to use with your clients, this is the training for you.  We cover an enormous array of topics such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Poly Vagal Theory and Ego-State work.  Most importantly, we are renowned for providing a much-needed space for recharging and reflecting in our beautiful 'retreat style' setting. Have a look at the testimonials on our website www.grooops.org.

The cost of the course is £300. A £50 non-returnable deposit secures your place. Full payment required 6 weeks before the start date. Email Amanda for more information info@grooops.org.

We recently had a problem with a computer update that crashed our computers.  If you are familiar and comfortable with IT this may not be too distressing.  However, I am not and I became very aware just how stressful any change can be to that wonderful neurodiverse brain of mine.

The anxiety brought on by the crash put a huge demand on my working memory, which became non-existent and in turn, my energy.  I came across this link about dyslexia and the fear factor in the brain from Understood, which helped and which may be of interest.

Here at GroOops Dyslexia Aware Counselling, we are very familiar with the difficulties our clients can face in their place of work.  This is usually due to a general ignorance of dyslexia and the impact a work environment has upon it, especially if there is a focus on deficits rather than strengths. Universal Music UK has created a handbook for embracing neurodiversity in the creative industries. It is well worth a look.   

Download the PDF here and have a listen here.  

Staying with the workplace, the boss of Lloyds Banking Group comments generally on mental health issues.

Heads up to our colleague and neurodiversity warrior Thom Davies for his short film "I am Dyslexic" which is now winning awards.  Well done Thom. 

Watch the film here.

1.) Dyslexia show 2020 

Running on Friday the 20th and Saturday the 21st March this show is put together by our friend and colleague Arran Smith at Birmingham NEC.  It's free but you do have to pay if you want to attend any of the workshops.

 I'm presenting one on Saturday the 21st March at 10.30 in Seminar Room 2 entitled "The emotional rollercoaster of Dyslexia - and what you can do about it".  It can feel very isolating to be in the support role of parenting someone with dyslexia and this talk will look at helpful interventions and strategies to understand why family members react in the way they do and what you can put in place to minimise stress and anxiety. Read for more information here.
 

2.) Parents Day - SATURDAY 16th May

As always, we have had a lot of interest from parents as to how they can best support their dyslexic children.  Following on from the successful introduction of our Psycho-Social Sessions for Parents, this day will consist of a variety of presentations, film screenings, general discussion and, as always with GroOops Dyslexia Aware Counselling, it will have a focus on how parents can support not only their children but themselves as well.  A day of respite, companionship, homemade soup and salad lunch. Cost £50. Limited spaces. The day will run from 10.30 am through to 4.00 pm.  If you are interested in the above please contact Amanda for further information info@grooops.org.

3.) Network Reunion Day - SUNDAY June 14th

This day is open to all our professionals who have joined the Dyslexia Aware Therapeutic Network (whether you are taking clients or not).
£10 to cover costs.  Bring your own lunch.  Limited spaces.

If you are interested in the above please contact Amanda for further information info@grooops.org.

What you need to know if you care about someone with dyslexia
by Pennie Aston

Showcasing the ND Workplace
by The British Dyslexia Association

Showcasing the ND Workplace (PDF Version)
by The British Dyslexia Association

As a dyslexic person I find picture books very helpful to give me a grasp of a subject.  Here are a couple of my favourites. 

At GroOops Dyslexia Aware Counselling we incorporate aspects of ACT in our approach. The 'Happiness Trap Pocket book' is an illustrated easy-to-read introduction to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). 

'Listen' is a beautifully illustrated book to inspire empathy by exploring what it means to be connected to everything, including the natural world.
 

If you are interested in 1:1 counselling please contact us for a referral form or to discuss further.  If you have any difficulties with completing the form we are more than happy to help complete it over the phone.  As well as working from our base in Finchley we have a number of therapists now in various parts of the country. 

That's all for now.  Don't hesitate to make contact if you want any further information about anything in the newsletter.  We love hearing from you.

All the best..........