It Begins With Us

No. While this space and community can feel healing and supportive, it is not a therapy service, and we will not be entering into a formal therapeutic relationship. This is a psycho-educational, self reflective, and guided cohort based program focused on self-awareness, coping skills, mindfulness, resourcing, and shifting behavioral patterns. Psychotherapy, in contrast, treats mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, and involves diagnosis and clinical treatment planning under a health and medical model. Traditional therapy is where you would seek services and treatment to reduce or alleviate mental health symptoms related to a formal diagnosis (mentioned above). Many participants find it helpful to pair this group with individual therapy, or join after completing therapy to maintain growth and connection.

Sharing is encouraged, but you are not required to speak in every activity or answer every question. We do ask that participants attend on time, keep cameras on (as appropriate), and engage actively by listening and participating at a level that feels authentic. If you’re not ready to engage at a moderate level, we can explore if this is the right time for a group during a free introduction call.

Homework (or intention-setting exercises) is optional, but strongly recommended. These practices help you apply what we cover in group to your daily life. Those who engage with the between-session reflections generally experience deeper growth and more lasting change.

We understand that life happens. If you miss a session, we encourage you to email Kara to review any materials shared and continue with the next meeting. A follow up email is sent out in between each group meeting/session with any resources shared in group, as well as homework/intention work prompts. Meetings are not recorded for replay due to the intimate and private nature of the space. Although this is not considered a "therapy" group, I still value privacy and confidentiality standards.

Refunds or make-up sessions are not offered for missed groups/meetings, but there are two monthly days/times to choose from each month for access and flexibility. You may attend one or both meetings as an IBWU member. Consistent attendance helps you and the group get the most benefit.

This community is for women who want to reconnect with themselves, strengthen self-trust, and shift patterns like people-pleasing or self-abandonment. It’s a supportive space for women navigating stress, life transitions, or simply wanting to live in more alignment with their values. It is not a fit for those needing crisis support or clinical treatment for severe mental health conditions.

Group size is intentionally kept small, typically 10 or fewer participants, to create a sense of safety, connection, and individualized support within a community setting.

Participants are asked to honor group confidentiality and not share others’ stories outside the group. However, because this is not a therapy group, confidentiality is based on mutual trust and agreement rather than legal privilege. I take your privacy seriously and create clear guidelines to protect our space.

We offer a free 15-minute introductory call to help you determine if this group meets your needs and it is a good fit. This is a chance to ask questions, share what you’re hoping for, and see if the group’s focus aligns with your goals at this time. This call is required to determine if It Begins With Us is a good fit for you.

That’s completely normal! Many women feel a little anxious about joining a community or group setting. This is a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can go at your own pace. Most participants find that initial nerves ease as they get to know the group and feel welcomed. Many studies show that a group or safe community setting can be highly effective in promoting connection, integration of skills learned and validation of experiences. It can also be a more cost effective way of receiving professional support.

It Begins With Us live meet ups are held twice/month, with the exception of holidays and some pre arranged dates by Kara. We meet for about 60 minutes. Each live meet up includes self reflection, group discussion and support, skill-building exercises, and take-home practices designed to help you integrate what you’re learning.

More specific details can be provided during a 15 minute intro call, if you wish.