Classic Program: Starter Facilitator Handbook for Healing Groups

P: Tell me what happened. M. It’s a horrible scene in my head . We were going up a hill, a car came over the hill into our lane, speeding. There was no time to react. I swerved and spun and ended up in a ditch upside down. I smelled gas. My wife and daughter were unconscious and bleeding. I got out and was screaming for my family. I managed to get them out from under the car. I was afraid the gas would explode. P: It’s amazing you could think clearly . Were you in pain? M: I don’t know. It was a blurry nightmare. I think I was in shock. P: How did you feel? M: I was worried about our new suitcases. I know that sounds crazy. P: That’s not crazy. Maybe it kept you from being overwhelmed . M: I hadn’t thought about it like that. P: Tell me more. M: Well, first I was glad to have survived, but now I have bad thoughts and feelings. I’m confused. I felt so helpless and wanted to kill the driver . He died, but I wish I could have killed him myself. I shouldn’t feel this way. P: I’d probably feel that way, too . M: Really? Helpful to hear . I just don’t feel thankful, even though my family survived. I’m not sleeping well. I know cars are probably safe, but I’m afraid of them anyway. I’m feeling very angry for no reason . I should feel thankful my family is recovering, right? P: Well, it’s normal to have all these feelings after what you’ve been through. What was the hardest thing for you? M: The worst was seeing my daughter and wife injured. P: Yeah. You said you felt helpless? M: Totally. I’m a man, you know, and I couldn’t do anything. P: What helped you cope so far? M: My family needs me. P: Yeah. We love you too. We can talk again next week, okay? M: Thanks. It really helps to talk about it . Do you want to see my family? They’re awake now. P: Yes, let’s.

The Lessons

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