The practices and approaches used in this program draw from Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and aim to support participant’s relationship to stressors as parents and caregivers via mindfulness practices. Mindfulness and related practices can be highly effective and most people that try it benefit from it, especially with regular practice, support, and appropriate facilitation.
However, transparency is important for ethical practice. Misconceptions and misinformation about mindfulness exist. And, at times, thoughts and feelings that arise during mindfulness work can result in varying degrees and types of discomfort. To support your experience and expectations please read the information below and complete the acknowledgement of your understanding and waiver of liability.
- Mindfulness does not replace mental health therapy or medication.
- The instructor leading this program is trained in mindfulness, but unless otherwise stated, is not a trained mental health professional.
- Many people find relief and growth in developing a mindfulness practice, but there are times when mindfulness may not be appropriate or may require individual considerations, such as if an individual:
- Has had adverse reactions to meditation in the past,
- Is experiencing certain psychiatric conditions such as severe depression or psychosis,
- Is newly in addiction recovery, or
- Has unresolved or newly experienced trauma.
- Mindfulness is not a tool or method to remove the issues in a person’s life. Rather, it is a way to develop a healthier relationship with the inevitable stressors of life. Given that, sometimes unwanted or unexpected thoughts and feelings arise from bringing mindful meditation and habits into one’s life. Each individual is accountable for their responses to what arises for them as a result of mindfulness practice and habits.
Acknowledgement of Understanding
To register for this program, you must confirm each of the following statements:
- I understand that these classes do not constitute therapy and that the facilitator is not a mental health professional. I understand that I am responsible for seeking appropriate support from a qualified mental health provider, should the need arise.
- I understand that if I am currently engaged in mental health therapy and/or under the care of a medical health provider, I will continue care under my provider(s) and will not make changes to my care without consultation of my medical provider(s).
- If I find that I am struggling or suffering while participating in this series, I will contact the facilitator/teacher to help me determine a plan of action with regard to this course.
Optionally, you may also indicate: I would like to speak with the facilitator/teacher prior to beginning this course to help me determine if this is a good time for me to participate.
Required Waiver of Liability
I do not/will not currently or in the future hold Gifted New York State, Inc. or Amanda Christy liable for unwanted or expected feelings, thoughts, behaviors or events that may arise as a result of participating in this series.
How to complete this acknowledgement: when you register for the program, the checkout form will ask you to check each required statement, type your full name as a digital signature, and enter the date for both the Acknowledgement of Understanding and the Waiver of Liability. Registration cannot be completed until all required items are confirmed.
