This 12-week therapeutic group is designed for participants with disabilities, chronic illness, neurodivergence/neurodiversity, and/or anyone who experiences ableism. Group discussions will explore shared experiences and include time to process—sharing and reflecting on current challenges, identities, and connections. Group members will also learn, practice, and share concrete skills to support emotional well-being and resilience.  

Through group discussion and skill-building, members will strengthen self-advocacy, practice community care, and explore ways to cope with stressors related to disability and ableism. This group is rooted in disability justice values, particularly interdependence, recognizing wholeness, and cross-disability solidarity, as outlined by Sins Invalid. This group will be co-facilitated by two counselors who identify as disabled/part of the disability community. 

Group Composition

• The group will consist of two cofacilitators and up to 10 group members. 

• Group members must be 18+ and located in Illinois during the group session.

• Group members can be current or new CWHC clients. 

• This group is open to people of all gender identities and expressions. 

The commitment to group therapy differs from individual counseling. By signing up for a group, you agree to attend all group sessions. You have three sessions to decide if the group is a good fit for you. If you choose to leave before the fourth session and notify the facilitators, you will not be charged for the remaining sessions.

To Join the Group: Fill out our Contact Request Form and one of the group facilitators will reach out to schedule a phone screen. These free calls are for us to answer any questions you have about the group, gather some information about you and your interest in the group, and address payment and paperwork. 

When and Where

• Mondays from 6pm to 7:30pm CT

• Weekly from October 8th through January 14th (Note: some weeks are skipped, this group does not meet for 12 consecutive weeks.)

• Join online via Zoom

Payment and Insurance Information

This opportunity is available to individuals’ using insurance or accessing our sliding scale. No one will be turned away based on their ability to pay.

Insurance: We can bill Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans. Group members will be responsible for any remaining copay that their insurance plan determines.

Sliding Scale: The sliding scale for group sessions is $60-$15 per session. The fee can slide down below $15 based on household income, household size, and what is affordable for the client. For any questions about payment or group information, please contact counselinginfo@chicagowomenshealthcenter.org.