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International Cultic Studies Association
Articles:
other
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The
History of the American Family Foundation
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Michael D. Langone, Ph.D. |
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Vol. 1, No. 1,
2002
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History of the American Family
Foundation 9/10
Appendix C: AFF Workshops
AFF offers regularly scheduled and specially arranged
small-group workshops for former members of abusive groups, and the families,
spouses, and friends of people involved in abusive groups.
The workshops offer extensive interaction between workshop leaders and
participants. Typically, 10-25
people will participate. The workshops provide practical information and a healing
atmosphere for individuals struggling with the sometimes long-term
aftereffects of an abusive group experience or the confusion, frustration, and
fear that people often experience when a loved one becomes involved in an
abusive group.
All sessions are led by individuals knowledgeable about
group psychological abuse and the special needs of former members of abusive
groups and family and friends concerned about group members or former members.
Some workshops are a part of AFF conferences. For information on
upcoming workshops, contact AFF.
Ex- Member Workshops
These workshops are for former group members only, not
family or friends (AFF has other workshops for these persons).
Topics discussed typically include:
- The nature of psychological manipulation and abuse
- Conditions of thought reform programs
- General recovery needs of former members
- Coping with depression and guilt
- Effects of hypnosis and trance techniques
- Coping with feelings of anger
- Coping with anxiety
- Decision-making
- Reestablishing trust in yourself and others
- Dependency issues
- The grieving process
- Reintegration/identity issues
- Spiritual and philosophical concerns
The workshops are organized and coordinated by Carol
Giambalvo, a thought reform consultant, former member of a controversial
group, and author/editor of Exit
Counseling: A Family Intervention and The
Boston Movement: Critical Perspectives on the International Churches of Christ
(Herbert L. Rosedale, co-editor). Ms.
Giambalvo serves AFF as Director of Recovery Programs, which include
workshops, special publications, professional liaison, and outreach.
Family Workshops
Topics discussed typically include:
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The nature of psychological manipulation and abuse
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Why people join and leave high-control, abusive groups
- How to assess your situation
- How to communicate more effectively with your loved one
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Problem-solving
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Formulating a helping strategy
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When exit counseling might be appropriate and how to prepare
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Ethical issues
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Special concerns of spouses
- How to help your loved one after he or she leaves the group
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How to cope with apparent helplessness without losing hope
AFF Family Workshops are organized and coordinated by
Livia Bardin, M.S.W., a therapist in private practice. Ms. Bardin serves on AFF’s Social Work Committee and Family
Education Service Advisory Board and is editor of the newsletter of the
Greater Washington Society of Clinical Social Workers.
She is author of Coping with Cult Involvement: A Handbook for
Families and Friends.
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Last revised:
February 10, 2008
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