Shora Family Support Group

Group Details

  • Ages: 8–14 (flexible based on fit)
  • When: Thursdays, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • Start Date: September 10, 2026
  • Insurance: Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicaid
  • Enrollment: Enroll by September 1st for the Fall 2026 cohort. The following enrollment period will then open for January, 2027.

The Shora Family Support Group is a weekly therapeutic community for families who homeschool or who are struggling to get their needs met within traditional school settings.

Many families come to us feeling isolated, exhausted, or unsure where they belong. Some children are experiencing anxiety, school refusal, frequent suspensions, or difficulties accessing appropriate accommodations. Others are thriving outside of traditional school environments and are looking for meaningful opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside other families.

This group is designed to provide a supportive space where children and caregivers can build relationships, strengthen social-emotional skills, explore interests, and develop a greater sense of belonging.

Who Is This Group For?

This group may be a good fit for families with children ages 8–14 who:

  • Homeschool or use alternative educational approaches
  • Are experiencing school refusal or significant anxiety related to school
  • Have struggled to access appropriate support or accommodations
  • Are navigating bullying, behavioral challenges, or other school-related difficulties
  • Are seeking opportunities for connection, community, and growth
  • Have neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, sensory differences, or other unique learning needs

Parent or caregiver participation is an important part of the group experience.

What Makes This Group Different?

Our approach is child-centered, relationship-based, and responsive to the unique needs of each family.

Rather than focusing solely on compliance or behavior management, we work to understand children's strengths, interests, developmental needs, and learning styles. Group activities are designed to support emotional regulation, relationship building, communication, problem-solving, self-advocacy, and confidence.

We recognize that participation can look different for different people. Children are encouraged to engage in ways that feel safe and meaningful to them.

What Will We Be Doing?

Each week follows a predictable structure while allowing flexibility to respond to the needs and interests of the group.

Activities may include:

  • Movement and sensory-based activities
  • Creative and art-based projects
  • Cooperative games and challenges
  • Interest-based learning opportunities
  • Social-emotional skill building
  • Problem-solving and conflict resolution
  • Parent discussion and support
  • Small breakout groups focused on specific goals or challenges

As relationships develop, families will help shape the direction of the group based on their interests, strengths, and needs.

Accessibility

We are committed to creating an environment that is welcoming and accessible for a wide range of sensory, communication, and support needs.

Participants will have access to:

  • Movement and sensory supports
  • Quiet spaces for regulation and breaks
  • Flexible participation options
  • Multiple ways to engage and communicate
  • Individualized support when needed

Enrollment & Payment Options

Families interested in joining the group will participate in an intake process before enrollment. This helps us learn about your family's strengths, goals, interests, and support needs, while also ensuring that the group is a good fit for everyone involved. The intake process typically includes a parent interview and an opportunity for us to meet with your child so we can better understand your family's goals and determine how best to support participation in the group.

For families using insurance, participation in the group requires a clinical intake assessment and a mental health diagnosis, as insurance companies require a diagnosis to cover therapeutic services. We are happy to discuss this process and answer any questions you may have.

Families who prefer not to use insurance are welcome to participate through our self-pay option. Sliding scale rates may be available based on financial need.

We believe financial barriers should not prevent families from accessing support and community. If cost is a concern, please reach out to discuss available options.

Enrollment is ongoing through September 1, 2026, with group sessions beginning September 10, 2026.

Interested in this program?
Fill out our interest form