New Mental Health Support Groups for Disability Affirmation, Anxiety Coping Skills, and Teens
Facilitated by Licensed Clinical Social Worker Minnelly Vasquez, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Minnelly Vasquez, LCSW, will be running three new support groups starting in August and September 2025. The support groups are offered virtually for patients residing in New York or Connecticut. For enrollment, please see details below and contact cpcenter@cumc.columbia.edu or 212-305-2700.
Disability Affirmation Circle (6 Weeks)
Thursday nights | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Limited to 12 participants
Dates: August 7, August 21, August 28, September 11, September 18, September 25
Location: Virtual Platform
This group offers a space to explore and affirm disability identity through shared discussion, reflection, and learning. Each week, we will engage with materials such as articles, podcasts, or films centered on the lived experiences of people with disabilities. Topics will include key moments in disability history, from periods of injustice and resistance to milestones of progress and ongoing advocacy. Together, we’ll process the emotional, social, and personal dimensions of disability and build community through collective affirmation and dialogue.
Anxiety Coping Skills Group (5 Weeks)
Tuesdays | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Limited to 10 participants
Dates: September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23, September 30
Location: Virtual Platform
This group uses a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to help participants identify a personal goal that has been impacted by anxiety. In a supportive space with others living with cerebral palsy, participants will explore and practice proven CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure exercises, relaxation training, and thought-challenging strategies. The group will focus on building practical coping skills to reduce anxiety symptoms that may be interfering with progress, while fostering connection, support, and accountability.
Support Group for Teens with CP (6 Weeks)
Tuesdays | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Limited to 10 participants
Dates: September 16, September 23, September 30, October 14, October 21, October 28
Location: Virtual Platform
This group offers a safe and welcoming space for teenagers with cerebral palsy to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Through open conversations, fun activities, and peer connection, teens will have the opportunity to build friendships, explore identity, and talk about the challenges and strengths that come with living with CP.
Learn more about our mental health program.
