AGE - Age Group Explorations

Erik Erikson, (1902-1994).

"Generativity" is a relatively new concept for me, which I picked up from Kenneth S. Schultz's - "Happy Retirement - the Psychology of Reinvention." Originally coined by Erik Erikson to explain a human need to "contribute to the world." Unlike "generosity," which normally means sharing one's wealth or financial means, generativity is about sharing one's gifts, skills, experience, expertise and ... wisdom!

Following this impulse, I thought, I could try to share some of the skills that I acquired during the forty years of professional practice as psychologist. More so than "passing on the flame" to young generations, I would like to offer my skills to the people of my age - "young at heart" retirees or about retirees.

Thus, I am starting a new program, called AGE - Age Group Explorations. The idea is to give people of my generation an opportunity for "meaningful conversation" about some of the challenges of our stage of life. One of these challenges is progressive social isolation, which I hope to counter through weekly group encounters. The purpose is to help people communicate about what they experience, find meaning and a sense of connectedness with others, as well as a sense of reconciliation with the past and with the world.

AGE is not meant to be a psychotherapy group. I do not make assumption that there is anything wrong with the prospective participants. I consider my role to be of "facilitator" rather than "therapist." I look forward to learn from the people who will attend these groups. AGE is also not a palliative care, neither a medical advice nor retirement planning group. The concept is more of an "encounter group."

For start, I will offer two 12-week long programs in association with the Lessard Community League, 17404 - 57 Avenue in Edmonton. "Polish group" will meet on Tuesdays, from 1 to 3 pm, starting on 17 September. "English group" will meet on Thursdays, also 1 to 3 pm, beginning on 19 September. I plan to accept about 10 persons in each group. Once the group is formed, it will be "closed" to allow people to establish sense of security with each other. New people will however be admitted when the groups "roll over," every 3 months.

Is there a cost? Yes, there is. The program will cost $60 a month (with, per average, 4 sessions offered) or $150 for three months. To put this cost in perspective - according to the fee schedule of Psychologists' Association of Alberta I should be charging $60 ... per session!

Let me know if this program is of interest for you, or if you have any questions. Or, perhaps, you will have some suggestions for me? If inclined to try the program, reserve your spot by sending me email to rajski.piotr@gmail.com, preferably with the e-transfer of the fee. Also, let others know - perhaps someone close to you could benefit.

In Truth, Simplicity and Love, Piotr.

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