Parent Support Groups

Support Groups

We are honored to host several support groups for you to attend on your journey of parenthood.  You cannot do this alone!  Each group is facilitated by survivor parents and you are sure to receive a compassionate, empathetic ear when you attend.  Prenatal parents are very welcome to attend so you can meet the community that will be there to support you once your baby arrives.  Each group is free and there is no registration required to attend.  Groups meet both in person and virtually.  Please join our private Facebook page, Sentara Martha Jefferson Motherhood, to receive links, or you can e-mail lesalvat@sentara.com to be placed on our e-mail list to receive links and updates for group meetings.

Welcome to Motherhood

This gathering of all birthing persons meets in person the 1st and 3rd Thursday morning of each month from 10:30-12 pm and virtually the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 10:30-12pm.  We discuss a wide range of topics – whatever the group needs most!  We share resources, use group-think to problem-solve, and most of all encourage one another.  Many folks have discovered the power of relationship and vulnerability in this group.  In person meetings are held at 595 Martha Jefferson Drive, Suite 330.

Out of the Blues

This group is proudly affiliated with Postpartum Support Virginia as a resource for any birthing person who has experienced or is currently experiencing for the first time any symptoms of Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorders (PMADs).  PMADs encompass anxiety, OCD, depression, and PTSD.  Symptoms of these disorders are the #1 complication of pregnancy, affecting 1 in 5 of those giving birth.  The effects of PMADs are not always felt soon after birth, but often within the first year.  As a social support group, it is facilitated by survivors, not professional therapists.  No official diagnosis needed to attend.  Meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Thursday mornings of each month, 10:30-12 pm.  Meetings are held at 595 Martha Jefferson Drive, Suite 330.

Parenting Support for Survival

Welcome to all parents, this group meets virtually the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 7:30-8:30pm.  Each week a Mom and Dad will be co-facilitating the group. We can divide into groups if needed. We may have occasional guest speakers lead our conversation, but that is what this is – a conversation. We are a space for you to check-in, help normalize your current reality, receive support from others, and be seen and heard. Parenting cannot be done alone.

Both parents are encouraged to attend and babies/toddlers are welcome, of course!