LINKS + RESOURCES

Autism

Autism: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability defined by diagnostic criteria that include deficits in social communication and social interaction, and the presence of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities that can persist throughout life. It is estimated that about 1 in 59 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to estimates from CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. ASD is about 4 times more common among boys than among girls.

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/ss/ss6706a1.htm

https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis-aba-0

Services

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (MA): A GUIDE FOR DETERMINING YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE HEALTH CARE COVERAGE THRU MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (MA). Available through the PA Health Law Project. 800-274-3258, 215-625-3663, PA Health Law Project Help Line: 800-274-3258. http://www.phlp.org.

MA–GETTING MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR A CHILD (UNDER 21) WITH A SEVERE DISABILITY, MENTAL ILLNESS OR BEHAVIORAL DISORDER UNDER THE “LOOPHOLE” (2008 EDITION)- Guidebook from the PA Health Law Project, www.phlp.org.

PA HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CENTER RESOURCE: www.facebook.com/HelpinPA with weekly updates from Dept. of Insurance, Health, Public Welfare, and Aging. Please join the community.

AUTISM ROADMAP: www.carautismroadmap.org This Roadmap is a website containing almost 400 articles about Autism Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan. Whether you are just starting out with a diagnosis or have been living with ASD for years, there’s something for you! The Roadmap also includes a searchable Resource Directory with over 1000 listings, so you can find therapists, support groups, and other resources in the tri-state area.

CHESTER COUNTY EARLY INTERVENTION AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES MAP. Download the service map for more information about services provided to children in Chester County. http://www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/19242

CHESTER COUNTY ADULT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES MAP Download the service map for more information about mental services provided to adults in Chester County. http://www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/19240

CHESTER COUNTY INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES SERVICES MAP Download the service map for more information about services provided by Chester County. MH/IDD. http://www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/19238

://www.able-now.com

AUTISM-TRANSITION PLANNING HANDBOOK for INDIVIDUALS with AUTISM – Online resource for families in PA.

JOB LOCATOR SERVICES: PA Career Link for Chester County job seekers. Website: www.pacareerlinkchesco.org. Phone PA CareerLink-Chester County 610 384-9393

INTRODUCING ABLE NOW

More independence, greater financial security and a better quality of life – that’s the future ABLEnow is building. ABLE accounts are a new way to help individuals with disabilities save money and pay for qualified disability-related expenses. For the first time ever, that means tax-advantaged savings, usually without endangering eligibility for the means-tested benefit programs critical to the health and well-being of many with disabilities. For more information visit, https://www.able-now.com/

EASTER SEALS – Easter Seals provides exceptional services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities. Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 90 years. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals. http://asterseals.com

Support / Advocacy Groups

AUTISM GROUP FOR FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS OF ADULTS ON THE SPECTRUM, coordinated by Adult Services Committee of the ASA of Greater Phila. Chapter for those with loved ones on the autism spectrum 17 years old and above. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FamiliesOfAdultsAutism-ASAphilly.

AUTISM – TACA (TALK ABOUT CURING AUTISM). National non-profit now holding monthly meetings in PA. 1st Fri./mo. at Saint Alban Episcopal Church, 3625 Chapel Rd., Newtown Square, 19073. Co-coordinator: Honey, 610-405-5388, honey.rinicella@tacanow.org, www.tacanow.org.

AUTISM website: The Help Group http://www.thehelpgroup.org/. Downloads and articles.

AUTISM – DELCO FAMILY “PASS” (PDD/Autism Spectrum Support). Monthly support meetings, newsletters, scholarships, and parents-only listserv. barbzimmerman@delcofamilypass.com. 610-626-9511.

Pennsylvania’s Waiver Program for adults living with Autism

In addition to Medical Assistance, the Department of Public Welfare also provides the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver Program which is also known as the Waiver program. The Waiver program provides funding for supports and services to help individuals with disabilities live in their homes and communities permitting Pennsylvania’s Department of Public Welfare to use the same funds allocated for Medical Assistance to provide supports and services for individuals in their own communities.

The Department of Public Welfare administers several Waiver programs with each waiver having its own eligibility requirements, including but not limited to income, resource, age, and level of care requirements, and its own specific set of services it provides. Some of the Waiver programs provided by the Department of Public Welfare are as follows:

Autism Waiver – Provides supports for adults, who are at least 21 years old, with Autism.
COMMCARE Waiver – home and community-based program created for individuals who experience a medically determinable diagnosis of traumatic brain injury.
Consolidated Waiver for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities – Provides home and community-based services to eligible individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Independence Waiver – Provides services to eligible persons with physical disabilities.
OBRA Waiver – Provides services to individuals with severe developmental physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy or similar conditions.
Person/Family Directed Support Waiver– Provides services for individuals with a diagnosis of an intellectual disability

Emails of organizations supporting adults with Autism

http://www.arcofchestercounty.org/resources/links/

Ascending Group for Autism – www.ascendgroup.org

Autism Advocacy Network – www.autisticadvocacy.org

National Alliance on Mental Illness – www.nami.org

https://www.autismhandbook.org/index.php?title=Support_Services_and_Waivers_-_Pennsylvania

Diagnoses/Resources

Anxiety

These institutions, many of which study anxiety disorders, can provide valuable information on the nature of these conditions and how to cope with them.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-NAMI (1-800-950-6264)

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): 1-240-485-1001

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): 1-866-615-6464

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Mental Health (CDC): 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636)

American Psychological Association: 1-800-374-2721

American Psychiatric Association: 1-800-357-7924

Anxiety Disorders Association of Americawww.ADAA.org

Depression

Most people feel low and sad at times. However, in the case of individuals who are diagnosed with depression as a psychiatric disorder, the manifestations of the low mood are much more severe and they tend to persist. Depression occurs more often in women than in men.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/treating.aspx

Anxiety and Depression Association of America This site offers blogs by experts and patients, educational webinars and help finding a support group near you, or information on how to start one if none are available.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). This organization offers support and educational material for those who have or are contemplating suicide, or love someone who has.

Erika’s Lighthouse 847-386-6481. This site builds awareness around teenage depression.

https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/apa-blog/2017/03/preventing-recurrence-of-depression-with-mindfulness-based-cognitive-therapy

Bipolar I

Bipolar I disorder is the classic form of the illness, which involves recurrent episodes of mania and depression. People with bipolar II disorder never develop severe mania; instead, they experience episodes of hypomania that alternate with depression.

When four or more episodes of illness occur within a twelve-month period, a person is said to have rapid-cycling bipolar disorder. Some people experience multiple episodes within a single week, or even within a single day. Rapid cycling tends to develop later in the course of illness

https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/bipolar-disorder-treatment-care

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance 1-800-826-3632.

https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/bipolar-disorder-resources-1

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Many people with OCD recognize that their obsessions and compulsions are not rational. Nevertheless, they still feel a strong need to perform repetitive behavior or mental compulsions. They may spend several hours every day focusing on their obsessions, performing seemingly senseless rituals. If left untreated, OCD can be chronic and can interfere with a person’s normal routine, schoolwork, job, family, or social activities.

https://peaceofmind.com/resources/organizations-affiliates/

The International OCD Foundation
www.iocdf.org

The Peace of Mind Foundation
www.peaceofmind.com

OCD UK www.ocduk.org

Beyond OCD www.beyondocd.org

From Adversity to Advocacy(A2A) www.a2aalliance.org

NAMI www.nami.org

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a serious accident, a terrorist act, war/combat, rape or other violent personal assault.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4663500/

Children with disabilities and organizations for inclusion

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY)

http://www.nichcy.org/

Whole Schooling

http://www.wholeschooling.net/

Inclusion in Science Education for Persons with Disabilities

http://www.specialeducationalneeds.com/
InclusiveCurricula/Sc.htm

Wrightslaw

http://wrightslaw.com

Circle of Inclusion

http://circleofinclusion.org/

Temple University, Institute on Disabilities

http://disabilities.temple.edu/

Links to the Federal Government

The Federal Resource Center for Special Education- www.rrfcnetwork.org

Internal Revenue Service – www.irs.gov

Medicare – www.medicare.gov

National Institute of Mental Health – www.nimh.nih.gov

The Office of Special Education Programs – http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html?src=mr

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Resources (OSERS) – http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/index.html

Social Security Administration – www.ssa.gov

Social Security Handbook – https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.html

U.S. Government – www.usa.gov

U.S. Department of Education – www.ed.gov

What Works Clearing House – http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/

Leisure activities for those with disabilities

Equine Assisted Therapy

RIDING – BARN AT SPRINGBROOK FARM– Animal-assisted activities for children with disabilities. Children can have fun while interacting with farm animals. Gains in knowledge, confidence, and self-esteem. Location: Locust Grove Rd., West Chester. Info: 610-793-1037, www.springbrook-farm.org.

RIDING – HOPE SPRINGS EQUESTRIAN THERAPY – equine therapy for autistic and challenged riders. Weekly group and individual sessions and summer camps with special education professionals combining riding and classes (June and July). At: Green Lane Rd, Malvern. Info: Jeannie Knowlton 610-827-0931, greyhorse22@gmail.com, www.Hope-Springs.org.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY – Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy, www.hope-springs.org, 610-827-0931, Malvern, director@hope-springs.org.

RIDING – Lasata Farm and Lasata Non-Profit Organization – http://www.lasata.org/ Lasata Farm provides balanced seat riding instruction for beginner through advanced riders, using our horses or yours. Our facility is capable, qualified, and certified, to work with riders with disabilities. We hold certifications in Centered Riding, PATH International and Thorncroft Equestrian Center’s Certification for Riders with Disabilities, with extensive studies in horse communication and natural horsemanship approaches. At this time, we are capable of accommodating many populations of riders with disabilities. Please contact us to see if our facilities can serve your riding needs. Phone: 484-459-5585 email: info@lasata.org

RIDING – MAKING STRIDES HIPPOTHERAPY & THERAPEUTIC RIDING– programs and instruction for both typically developing children and adults as well as those with disabilities. Individual programming and flexible schedule with physical therapist. Location: Brinton’s Bridge Rd., West Chester. Call: 610-656-8438, Robin.Langerhans@comcast.net.

RIDING – QUEST THERAPEUTIC SERVICES, INC. – Full-range of pediatric therapy services, including hippotherapy with flexible scheduling of OT/PT/Speech for children with special needs. Indoor arena heated and ventilated for year-round use. Some insurance reimbursable. Location: 461 Cann Rd., West Chester. Info: 610-692-6362, www.QuestTherapeutic.com.

RIDING – THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING – REINS of LIFE. Non-profit organization located in Landenberg, PA provides therapeutic horseback riding services for children, young adults, and adults with special needs and life challenges. Disabilities served are varied and include: Down Syndrome, autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, ADD, emotional challenges, learning differences, speech, hearing, or visual impairments. Social situations, such as school bullying, starting in a new school, family situations involving a loss of a loved one, or pet, or divorce. Program operates weekdays from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. and weekends. Call for specific times which may vary due to season. 610-274-3300. Ask about our “Sibling Riding Program”. Reins of Life has a fee for its therapeutic horseback riding program. For Information: Judy Hendrickson, Founding Director. Office: 610-274-3300 or Mobile: 610-724-5305. Website: www.reinsoflife.com Email: reinsoflife@verizon.net

Faith-Based Services

WORSHIP SERVICE – MH CONSUMERS ATTEND TRADITIONAL SERVICES. Residents of long-term structured residence (LSTR) in the northern part of Chester County are welcomed for worship, food, and fellowship by the congregation of Marsh Creek Church in Exton, 101 Crump Rd. Exton, PA 19341. Phone: 610 594-9277

WORSHIP SERVICE – “My Service Sundays” – Sundays – 11:00 a.m. Avondale Presbyterian Church. Designed particularly for individuals with disabilities, caregivers, youth, young adults, families and others. 420 Pennsylvania Avenue (Route 41), Avondale. EPIC (Experience Personal Intimacy with Christ) service will include the EPIC PRAISE band. Info: www.avondalepc.org/EPIC.htm or (610) 268-2919.

WORSHIP – REJOICING SPIRITS WORSHIP SERVICE – Innovative inclusive ministry that reaches out to enrich the spiritual lives of persons with developmental disabilities, together with their families, friends and other supportive community members. The ministry is designed to acquaint and educate congregations about individuals with developmental disabilities, resulting in an accepting atmosphere. Services typically include lots of music and joyous singing, along with brief, meaningful messages conducted in a shush-free environment. Special Sunday worship services at various locations. Lots of music, refreshments, and fellowship follow the service. Info: 610-363-6264, info@rejoicingspirits.org, www.rejoicingspirits.org. All faiths are welcome!

Exton – St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 104 South Village Avenue, (610) 363-6264, 4:00 p.m., on the second Sunday of each month.

Media – Reformation Evangelical Lutheran, Church, 102 West Rose Tree Road, (610) 891-0600, 4:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month.

Pottstown – St. James Lutheran Church, 1101 East High Street, (610) 326-2810, 7:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month.

Gilbertsville – New Hanover Lutheran, Church, 2941 Lutheran Road, (610) 326-1335, 3:00 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

West Chester – Calvary Lutheran Church, 730 South New Street, (610) 696-2475, 4:00 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

Social Skills/friendship

BUDDY / FRIENDSHIP PROGRAMS: INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES (IDD) – Best Buddies Pennsylvania and e-Buddies matches people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with those without to create one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with IDD. Info: (610) 992-9400. Website: http://www.bestbuddies.org

ACCESS PASS – FREE LIFETIME PASS TO NATIONAL PARKS for permanent residents with a permanent disability. Phone: 888 275-8747

FRIDAY NIGHT OUT! 2nd Fri, Ages 5-12, 6:00pm – 8:30pm. Cost: Your child won’t even realize that through the games and various activities they are LEARNING! Executive Functioning activities and academic activities. $40/child. Location: FICK Educational Services, West Chester. Regis/info: Cris at (610) 457-2199, fickeducation@gmail.com.

Weekly activities: – Ages 18 yrs. and up. Weekly activities. Community-based barbecues, zoos, outdoor games, dances, bowling, train rides, etc. Costs vary by activity. Call: Lori at The Arc of Chester County 610-696-8090, lmeyers@arcofchestercounty.org.

SELF-ADVOCACY – PA YOUTH LEADERSHIP SELF-ADVOCACY – monthly conference calls to explore topics of interest to young self-advocates. 1st Sunday of each month from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Call 1-309-946-5255. Access code 376191#. Visit the PYLN website at www.pyln.pbwiki.com for additional information.

Sports

BOCCIA LEAGUE at ALFRED I. duPONT HOSPITAL. Boccia is a Paralympic sport intended for, but not exclusive to, players with Cerebral Palsy and other neurological impairments. Location: Nemours/Alfred I. DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE. Wednesday nights, all abilities, ages 8-21. Information: Boccia Flyer. For questions, call: Brie or Katherine at 302-298-7490 or email brianne.sheppard@nemours.org or ke0013@nemours.org

KARATE – TAE KWON DO CLASSES FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS – Regular, private or semi-private classes offered, and kids are included with kids without special needs, as appropriate. Provides a structured program for kids who love to run, jump, and play who would benefit from peer interaction, but are less likely to have success with team-oriented sports. Benefits self confidence, self-control, focus, coordination, social skills, body control, core strength, FUN. Held at United Sports, Downingtown. Families may have BT, TSS accompany children. Classes Monday through Friday for ages 4-6 years at 5 p.m. ages 7-11 years at 6 p.m. Saturday Classes, ages 4-6 years at 9 a.m., 7-11 years, at 10 a.m. Info/regis: Mr. Fox at 717-469-5876, www.unitedsportstkd.net

SOCCER – WEST BRADFORD YOUTH ATHLETICS CHALLENGER SOCCER – Soccer league for children with special needs so all children can have the fun and experience of playing soccer. For children 7 – 21 years of age. Held at the WBYA Soccer fields in West Bradford. Starting in April with games on Saturday for one hour. Info/regis: John Gallagher 610-486-6842, Johnfgall1@verizon.net. Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available!

SOCCER – CHALLENGER SOCCER IN SEPTEMBER – West Bradford Youth Athletics second season of Challenger Soccer for children with special needs. For ages 7-21 yrs. No previous soccer experience necessary. Children grouped based on ability, not age. Fosters fun and inclusive atmosphere. Saturdays at noon beginning Sept 10th. Info/regis: John G. 610-486-6842 or johnfgall1@verizon.net. Sign up at www.WBYA.org and register under “Challenger Soccer” Regis, fee $35. Scholarships available. Come for the fun!

SOCCER – HIGH 5 SOCCER for Players with Special Needs ages 5–19 yrs. Sponsored by the Glenmoore Eagle Youth Association Program based on US Youth Soccer’s TOP Soccer model. A community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized by youth soccer association volunteers. No cost. For ages 5-19yrs.

Safari & Teen Camp

The Arc of Chester County’s Camp Safari is a special place for children between ages 4 to 12 to experience outdoor activities regardless of disability. Teen Camp is open to teens age 13 to 19.

Both camps offer:

New experiences and fun with peers

Activities including fishing, canoeing, swimming, sports, crafts, and nature study

Respite for family members and caregivers

Teen Camp and Camp Safari are both week-long summer day camps that operate from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Each camper has a one-on-one teen volunteer or an Arc Staff member. All staff and volunteers are supervised by the Family Support Services Manager of Community-Based Services.

For more information about Teen Camp- Click Here
For Teen Camp’s registration form – Click Here

For more information about Camp Safari- Click Here

If you are interested in volunteering at Teen Camp or Camp Safari- Click Here for the volunteer application and download the information form.

Click here for an Arc Intake Form. Intake forms are required for all campers.

Parents of children receiving funding through the Chester County Department of Mental Health/Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities are encouraged to contact their school district or supports coordinators for funding for Camp Safari and Teen Camp. Private pay options are available for children not receiving county or school funding.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Family members and individuals living with a mental health issues in Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Although we make an effort to keep this information up-to-date, we strongly encourage you call or email the contact listed prior to attending a group to verify the date, time, and location of the meeting. NAMI, WRAP, and DBSA are three of the most common support groups. NAMI support groups are sponsored by one of the local affiliates of the National Alliance on Mental Illness and can be for either family and friends or individuals with Mental Health issues. WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plans) meetings are for people who have a WRAP or those who would like to develop a WRAP. A Wellness Recovery Action Plan is a way to plan out and monitor what you need to do to stay both mentally and physically healthy. DBSA groups are sponsored by one of the local chapters of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance and are available for family and friends as well as individuals with depression or bipolar disorder.

Chester County | Family Member Support Groups

Foundations for Parents is a parent support meeting every Monday from 7-8:30 p.m. at Center for Families, 101 Phoenixville Pike in Malvern, PA. This weekly peer-led parent meeting is a safe, confidential environment where parents with children dealing with substance use concerns come together to support one another. This meeting is open to any parent concerned about their child’s substance use. For more information, please contact Nicole Flanagan: 610-228-0670 or Nflanagan@CenterforFamilies.com.
Northeastern Chester County Family Support Group, sponsored by NAMI Chester County, meets on the second Thursday, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Penn Psychiatric Center, 601 Gay Street, Suite 6, in Phoenixville. For more information, please call 484-947-5643.
Parents Helping Parents, a support group for parents with children who have special needs, meets on the fourth Thursday of every month from 5:30-7 p.m. (dinner provided) at Devereux Community Services, 1041 W. Bridge Street in Phoenixville. For more information, please call 610-933-8001, x2216 or email adannunz@devereux.org.
Parent Peer Support Group meets on Wednesday nights from 6:45-8:15 p.m. for parents with a middle or high school child who is challenged with mental health symptoms. The group is facilitated by Nancy Dever and Debbie Gillespie and will be held at Wayne Presbyterian Church, Room 207, 125 E. Lancaster Ave, Wayne. For questions or to RSVP, contact Nancy Dever at nancydever@comcast.net or call 610-574-3319.
Serenity for Parents is a parent support meeting every Wednesday from 7-8:30 p.m. at Center for Families, 101 Phoenixville Pike in Malvern, PA. This weekly peer-led parent meeting is a safe, confidential environment where parents with children dealing with mental health concerns come together to support one another. This meeting is open to any parent concerned about their child’s mental health. For more information, please contact Nicole Flanagan: 610-228-0670 or Nflanagan@CenterforFamilies.com.
Southern Chester County Family Support Group, sponsored by NAMI Chester County, meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 7:30-9 p.m. at Friends Meeting House, Rt. 82, in Kennett Square. For more information, please call 484-947-5643.
Survivors of Suicide (S.O.S.) meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Willistown Room at Paoli Memorial Hospital. For more information, please call 215-545-2242.
West Chester Family Support Group, sponsored by NAMI Chester County, meets on the first Wednesday of the month, from 7-9 p.m. at Community Crossroads Peer Support Center, 825 Paoli Pike in West Chester. For more information, please call 484-947-5643.

Chester County | Support Groups for Individuals with Mental Illness

Depression/Bipolar Support Group meets on Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. at Community Crossroads Peer Support Center, 825 Paoli Pike in West Chester. For more information, please call 610-429-1702.
Double Trouble, a support group for those recovering from addiction and mental health problems, meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. at Community Crossroads Peer Support Center, 825 Paoli Pike in West Chester. For more information, please call 610-429-1702.
Eating Disorders Support Group for individuals aged 13 and older, family members, and supporters, meets every Thursday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Brandywine Hospital, 201 Reeceville Road in Coatesville. For more information, please go to brandywineeatingdisorders.com.
Transition Aged Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (TADBSA) support group meets on Tuesdays, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Community Crossroads Peer Support Center, 825 Paoli Pike in West Chester. This support group is led by and created for youth and young adults (ages 14 to 25) living with a mood disorder. Contact Adessa Washington for more information at 484-706-2110 or awashington@childandfamilyfocus.org.

Delaware County | Family Member Support Groups

The Bryn Mawr Family Member Support Group, sponsored by NAMI PA, Main Line, meets the first Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in Bryn Mawr. If you have a family member or loved one with mental illness and are interested in this support group, please contact Diane at 610-247-4545 for more information.
DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Delaware County meets every Monday from 7-9 p.m. at Riddle Hospital/Rothman Building, 1118 Baltimore Pike in Media on the second floor in Conference Room 2. Please call 484-442-0086 for more information.
Family-to-Family Support Group, sponsored by NAMI Delaware County, meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Lima United Methodist Church, 209 N. Middletown Road (Rt. 352) in Lima, PA. Please contact the moderator, Jean Shatoff, with any questions at 610-325-9623.
Havertown NAMI Family Support Group, sponsored by NAMI PA, Main Line, meets on the third Tuesday of every month, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Llanerch (211 Lansdowne Rd. in Havertown, PA 19083). This is a free, confidential and safe group of families helping other families who live with mental health challenges. In this support group, families join a caring group of individuals helping one another by utilizing their collective lived experiences and learned wisdom. Family members can achieve a renewed sense of hope for their loved one living with mental health challenges. For more information, please contact Nora at nora@huntjohnson.org.
Parent Peer Support Group meets on Wednesday nights from 6:45-8:15 p.m. for parents with a middle or high school child who is challenged with mental health symptoms. The group is facilitated by Nancy Dever and Debbie Gillespie and will be held at Wayne Presbyterian Church, Room 207, 125 E. Lancaster Ave, Wayne. For questions or to RSVP, contact Nancy Dever at nancydever@comcast.net or call 610-574-3319.

Delaware County | Support Groups for Individuals with Mental Illness

DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Delaware County meets every Monday from 7-9 p.m. at Riddle Hospital/Rothman Building, 1118 Baltimore Pike in Media on the second floor in Conference Room 2. Please call 484-442-0086 for more information.
Hearing Voices Support Group for Young People meets on Mondays, from 4:30-6 p.m. at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Avenue, in the Middleton Center, Room 203. For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432.
Hearing Voices Support Group meets on Wednesdays, from 3:30-5 p.m. at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Avenue, in the Middleton Center, Room 203. For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432.
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group meets weekly on Tuesday evenings in Bryn Mawr. This is a free, peer support group for individuals living with mental illness. For more information please call Hannah Cooper at 215-806-6178 or Danielle Sulpizio at 484-880-0660.

Montgomery County | Family Member Support Groups

Abington Family Support Group meets on the second Thursday of each month, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Abington Presbyterian Church, 1082 Old York Road in Abington, PA 19001-4593. For more information about this group, please contact NAMI Montgomery County at 215-361-7784 or nami-montcopa@verizon.net.
The Bryn Mawr Family Member Support Group, sponsored by NAMI PA, Main Line, meets the first Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in Bryn Mawr. If you have a family member or loved one with mental illness and are interested in this support group, please contact Diane at 610-247-4545 for more information.
Crisis Planning for Parents meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month, from 8:15 – 9 p.m. at Horsham Clinic – Manor Hall, First Floor Conference Room, 722 East Butler Pike in Ambler, PA 19002. This meeting time will include a discussion of elements of effective crisis planning for families, and the application of these elements. We will also talk about crisis supports available through the Children’s Crisis Support Program, and how families in Bucks and Montgomery Counties can access these The meeting is open to parents in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. For more information, please contact Eric Smith, Director of Children’s Crisis Support Program, at esmith@accessservices.org.
Hearing Voices Family Support Group. Meets the first Tuesday of the month from 7-8.30 p.m. at Horsham Friends Meeting, 500 Easton Rd, Horsham, PA 19044. For more information or to attend, please email tristaff@verizon.net or Klaws@mhasp.org
Lansdale Family Support Group meets on the first Tuesday of the month, beginning at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Main Street and Richardson Ave. in Lansdale. For more information about this group, please contact NAMI Montgomery County at 215-361-7784 or nami-montcopa@verizon.net.
Lower Providence Family Support Group meets on the first Monday of the month, from 7-8 p.m. at Lower Providence Presbyterian Church, 3050 Ridge Pike in Eagleville. For more information about this group, please contact NAMI Montgomery County at 215-361-7784 or nami-montcopa@verizon.net.
Parent Peer Support Group meets on Wednesday nights from 6:45-8:15 p.m. for parents with a middle or high school child who is challenged with mental health symptoms. The group is facilitated by Nancy Dever and Debbie Gillespie and will be held at Wayne Presbyterian Church, Room 207, 125 E. Lancaster Ave, Wayne. For questions or to RSVP, contact Nancy Dever at nancydever@comcast.net or call 610-574-3319.
Parent Support Group – Family Mentor meets Mondays 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Holcomb, 400 Creekside Dr, Pottstown, PA 19464. For more information contact Kizmect Meade at 267-559-9218.
Pottstown Family Support Group meets on the first Monday of each month from 7-8:30 p.m. at Creative Health Services Building, Room IOP #3, 11 Robinson Street in Pottstown, PA 19464-5438. For more information about this group, please contact NAMI Montgomery County at 215-361-7784 or nami-montcopa@verizon.net.
Serenity for Parents is a parent support meeting every Monday from 7-8:30 p.m. at Center for Families, 1225 Montrose Ave. in Bryn Mawr. This weekly peer-led parent meeting is a safe, confidential environment where parents with children dealing with mental health concerns come together to support one another. This meeting is open to any parent concerned about their child’s mental health, regardless of age. For more information, please contact Erin Ziegelmeyer: 610-675-9077 or eziegelmeyer@centerforfamilies.com
Voices Learning Community meets the second Thursday of every month at Creating Increased Connections 18 E. 4th Street, Bridgeport, Pa 19405 from 6-7:30 p.m. The group welcomes all persons- voice hearers, providers, supporters, family, friends and allies- who have an interest in the experience of hearing, seeing or sensing things that others do not. For more information contact Berta Britz at 484-681-9432 ext 203.

Montgomery County | Support Groups for Individuals with Mental Illness

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – (Teen Community Support Group) meets every other Thursday from 7-8 p.m. at Radnor House Condominium, L-10, 1030 East Lancaster Avenue in Rosemont. Act is a free coed support group for teens ages 15-18. The aim of the group is to allow for open adolescent discussion. It is not a substitute for therapy nor intended to be therapy. The group is facilitated by Andrew J. D’Amico, PhD Psychologist. It runs every other Thursday from 7-8.15 p.m. and accommodates 10 adolescents. Attendance is voluntary and enrollment is open. For more information or to register, go to andrewdamicophd.com.
Hearing Voices Support Group meets on Mondays, from 3-4:30 p.m. in Norristown at Norristown Friends Meeting (20 E. Jacoby Street) . Hearing Voices Support Groups are for people who experience auditory hallucinations, visions, or other unusual experiences. These groups are run by CIC (Creating Increased Connections). For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432.
Hearing Voices Support Group for Young People meets on Mondays from 4:30-6:00 p.m at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church. 625 Montgomery Ave. in the Middleton Center, Room 203. For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432.
Hearing Voices Support Group. This group meets Mondays 7:00-8:00 p.m. in Giant Food Store 2nd floor meeting room. 315 York Rd, Willow Grove PA 19090. Contact Berta Britz at 484-681-9432 ext 203.
Hearing Voices Support Group for Young Adults meets on Tuesdays, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Braccia Building (2935 Byberry Road in Hatboro), 1st floor across from Dance Arts. Hearing Voices Support Groups are for people who experience auditory hallucinations, visions, or other unusual experiences. These groups are run by CIC (Creating Increased Connections). For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432 ext 203.
Hearing Voices Support Group Lansdale. Meets at Lansdale Public Library on Tuesdays from 4:30-6 p.m. 301 Vine St, Lansdale 19446. Ph: Berta Britz at 484-681-9432 ext 203 for more information.
Hearing Voices Support Group meets on Wednesdays, from 3:30-5 p.m. at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Avenue, in the Middleton Center, Room 203. For more information call Berta Britz at 484-681-9432.
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group meets weekly on Tuesday evenings in Bryn Mawr. This is a free, peer support group for individuals living with mental illness. For more information please call Hannah Cooper at 215-806-6178 or Danielle Sulpizio at 484-880-0660.
NAMI Connection, a peer-run support group for individuals living with mental illness, meets on the first Monday of the month, from 6:15–8 p.m. at William James Memorial Library, 4051 Joshua Road in Lafayette Hill. For more information about this group, please contact NAMI Montgomery County at 215-361-7784 or nami-montcopa@verizon.net.
New Directions Bipolar Support Group meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month 7:30-9:45 p.m.at Willow Grove Giant Supermarket. 315 York Rd, Willow Grove 19090. Day time meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10-11.30 a.m. For more information about this group, please call 215-659-2366.
Peer Run Bipolar Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Pottstown Peer Resource Center, 249 E. High Street in Pottstown.
WRAP meets on Wednesdays from 6–7:30 p.m. in Norristown at Hopeworx, 1210 Stanbridge, Suite 300. For more information call Robert Martin at 484-681-9432.
WRAP meets on Wednesdays from 1:30–3 p.m. in Lansdale at Public Library, 301 Vine Street in Lansdale. For more information call Robert Martin at 484-681-9432.
WRAP meets on Mondays from noon-1:30 p.m. at Ludington Library in Lower Merion. WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plans) meetings are for people who have a WRAP or those who would like to develop a WRAP. A Wellness Recovery Action Plan is a way to plan out and monitor what you need to do to stay both mentally and physically healthy. These groups are run by CIC (Creating Increased Connections). For more information call David Son at 484-681-9432. Lansdale location meets on Wednesdays from 1.30-3 p.m. at Lansdale Public Library. 301 Vine Street, Lansdale PA 19446.

Philadelphia County | Family Member Support Groups

DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Northeast Philadelphia (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) meets every Wednesday, from 5:45–7:45 p.m. at PATH, 8220 Castor Ave., Philadelphia, 19152. Family members and individuals with mental illness typically meet at the same time in different groups. Email Caryn Kuhner at kuhner@gmail.com or call her at 267-343-7558 for more information.
DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) HUP Support Group (Hospital of the U of PA) meets every second and fourth Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. Please contact Denis and Fran Hazam at FHazam@mhasp.org or 215-545-0403 for more information. Meets First Floor of Founders Building of the McCurdy Conference Room. You can get directions at the main desk on the ground floor.
Educational Support Group for Family and Friends of Persons with Hoarding Behaviors, meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Belmont Hospital, 4200 Monument Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19131. There will be a focused discussion followed by a support group. Free for everyone. Registration is preferred but not required. To register or for more information, please contact 267-507-3865 or TECinfo@mhasp.org.
Educational Support Group for Adult Daughters, Sons and Siblings of People with Mental Health Disorders meets on the third Tuesday of every month from 7-9 p.m. at Belmont Center, 4200 Monument Road (Room 139), Philadelphia PA 19131. There will be a focused discussion followed by a support group. Free for everyone. Registration is preferred but not required. To register or for more information, please contact 267-507-3865 or TECinfo@mhasp.org.
Educational Support Group for Family Members & Friends of People with Traits of Borderline Personality Disorder meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month from 7-9 p.m. at Belmont Center, 4200 Monument Road (Room 139), Philadelphia PA 19131. There will be a focused discussion followed by a support group. Free for everyone. To register or for more information, please contact 267-507-3865 or TECinfo@mhasp.org.
Morning Family and Friends Support Group meets on the third Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. – noon at 1211 Chestnut Street (11th Floor Conference Room), Philadelphia, PA 19107. This is a group sponsored by the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania (MHASP). The group consists of a discussion topic followed by a support group. Registration is preferred but not required. Free for everyone. To register or for more information, please contact 267-507-3865 or TECinfo@mhasp.org.
NAMI Philadelphia offers a Family Support Group Program on the second Saturday of the month. It will be held from 10.30 a.m. – 12.00 p.m. at Trinity Memorial Church 22nd and Spruce Street, Philadelphia. For more information, contact NAMI Philadelphia Facilitators Lynn Czarniecki Ph: 908-217-6365 Revlynn22@gmail.com, Vicki Hunt Ph: 321-961-9064 Lovn_hart@hotmail.com.

Philadelphia County | Support Groups for Individuals with Mental Illness

Borderline Personality Disorder Group meets twice a month at Belmont Center in Philadelphia. For more info contact Talya (ta-LEE-uh) Lewis at bpdsupport@comcast.net or (267) 357-5565.
DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Northeast Philadelphia (formerly Friends for Friends) meets every Wednesday, from 5:45–7:45 p.m. at PATH, 8220 Castor Ave., Philadelphia, 19152. Family members and individuals with mental illness typically meet at the same time in different groups. Email Caryn Kuhner at kuhner@gmail.com or call her at 267-343-7558 for more information.
DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) HUP Support Group (Hospital of the U of PA) meets every second and fourth Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. Please contact Denis and Fran Hazam at FHazam@mhasp.org or 215-545-0407 for more information.
NAMI Connections is a recovery support program that offers respect, understanding, encouragement and hope. It is run by trained facilitators living in recovery themselves. Meetings are held every Tuesday at 11 a.m. and last for 90 minutes. Meetings are held at the NAMI Philadelphia office- 520 North Delaware Ave, 7th Fl, Philadelphia, PA19123. Ph: 267-687-4381 or email Carly Banes at cbanes@pmhcc.org.
Pink & Blues Philadelphia is a free peer-run recovery & wellness support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender adults living with mental health conditions. The group meets every Wednesday, from 7-9 p.m. at The Church of St. Luke and The Epiphany Blue Room, 330 S. 13th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107. Contact Mark A. Davis at 215-627-0424 or madpride@ymail.com.
Well Spouse Association is a peer-run, free support group for spouses and partners of people with chronic illness or disability. This group will meet on the 4th Tuesday of the month from 6.30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m. at Center on the Hill, Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118. Call or email David Hale for further information. dhale@temple.edu or Ph: 267-977-7711.

Local Online Support Group

or go to 888-601-3515Free Online Support Group for Parents with Mental Health Challenges meets every Wednesday from 6-7 p.m. This is an opportunity for parents with psychiatric disabilities to connect with other parents and enjoy a community of support. Topics of discussion may include parenting, stigma, recovery, peer support, wellness resources, health care reform, etc. To join the support group, call www.uberconference.com/childandfamily or 267-368-7772. Please contact Child and Family Connections with questions at info@childfamilyconnections.org.