GARRETT CENTRE "SUPPORT GROUP"

Just got back from my Garrett Centre "Support Group" interview, which is also being used to pre-screen to see if you need to see Dr. Sidhu, if you have not already done so..  This will not be an actual WLS Support Group; but instead it will be groups of 10 people (put together after lengthy interviews with lots of paperwork to fill-out) to attend 11 weekly classes (60-90 min./class), involving weekly "homework", to offer information about dealing with feelings & difficulties with food issues, etc, and how to make changes in your life, in these areas.  It will not be groups of people being able to discuss issues, as they go along through their journey to weight loss or pre-op/post-op issues.  There will not be open discussions amongst the group attendees.  But, there will be short question/answer periods regarding the information offered, at the end of the classes.  It is not what I thought the support group would be, so I did not choose to join these classes.
Barb

Hi Barb

Thanks for the information... What is the charge if any for these classes

And It sounds like it is optional.. not sumthing that we have to do ..

I have my appointment scheduled for the 7th

Do you know when the weekly classes start and at what time they are being held

There are already quite a few support groups and we can always start out own!

Blaze online has a good directory of alot of the meetings...

anyways Thanks again for sharing this info

Sandra

The OT did not say if there would be a cost involved, and yes it is optional.  They are hoping to start classes by the end of August..  I think the classes are in the middle of the afternoon, around rush-hour.
Barb

Hi,

I'm guessing it was with the occupational therapist at Garrett Wellness? I recieved a call last week regarding scheduling an appointment with the OT for some sort of pre screening. I did schedule a appointment but its in a few weeks (by choice)  

rush hour in richmond .. how convient!

Hey everyone,

I've been away from the forums for a few weeks with work and summer etc.  Glad to be back though :)

Is the group called "Change Ways"?  Dr Sampath mentioned it to me last month but I hadn't heard anything more about it since.

It sounds like something I need.

Yes, I am quite sure that is what the group will be called, "Change Ways".

Changeways is an 11 week group which has a topic to cover each class. There is great discussion re: specific issues pertaining to the topic at hand. After the 11 weeks there is a maintenence group which is a little more "free form" which is held once a month, but available for those who have completed the 11 week program.

The timing of changeways is changing to accomidate those whowork.
To be admitted to the program or if you have questions, please contact Robyn, OT for more details [email protected] or 604 278-9711 ext. 4341.
There is an interview associated for admission, to qualify for an interview you must be one of the Richmond program clients.