Freedom Center Support Group

The Freedom Center Support Group is a volunteer, peer-run group that supports informed choice and self-determination regarding medication, other psychiatric treatments, and holistic alternatives.  We are based in Harm Reduction philosophy and support everyone's choice in their own recovery and lives as they define it for themselves: many Freedom Center members are currently taking psychiatric drugs, some are taking alcohol/recreational drugs, others are taking no drugs. We respect diversity, and emphasize the need to listen to people's own experiences as they understand and express them for themselves, free of intrusion or interpretation by authority figures, therapists, or doctors. 

Our Support Group is a place where people come to share their stories and personal experiences in a safe, non-judgmental environment. These experiences can range from past and current traumas to the personal effects of their treatment in the “mainstream” mental health system.  We have “regulars” who come every week, some who come occasionally, and others who choose to become more involved with Freedom Center activities. Our meetings are open to people labeled with mental disorders, survivors of psychiatric abuse, and people struggling with extreme states of consciousness/suffering. Allies and supporters willing to share their personal experiences are also welcome (mental health staff allies are welcome but should contact us first).   

We make an effort to share the most accurate information possible about psychiatric medications, information ranging from side-effects to long term effects, as well as withdrawal effects and alternative options for treatment (holistic remedies, etc.) We believe that by sharing as much information as openly and honestly as possible, we help ourselves and each other make informed choices and take more control over our own paths to recovery. 

As a peer-run group we are non-hierarchical and there are no “doctors” or “therapists” in charge. We usually have 1-2 peer facilitators present to lead the group but we are all equals. 

The Support Group meets on Thursday nights from 7-9 PM at 43 Center Street, Northampton, MA.

Meetings are wheelchair accessible and near public transit. Because of chemical sensitivities, please do not wear fragrances.

Please enter through the door up the stairs on the left side of the building. The meeting will take place either in the first room you enter or in a larger room toward the middle of the building - follow the lights and open doors until you find the group.

For more information please call 877-677-6424.

Support Group Guidelines

•Please try to come to the group on time and stay for the entire meeting. If you have to leave early please let us know at the beginning of the group.

•If you wish to take support time it is important that you arrive at the group before 8:00. Doors will be locked at 8:30. If you come in late, please take a seat quietly.

•Each person has a maximum of ten minutes to take support time, with optional time for group feedback afterward (we will try to limit feedback to five minutes.)

•Confidentiality is a key aspect of this group. Please respect others’ rights to privacy and keep what is said in the group within the group. Also, do not bring up personal information about group members without their permission.

•A key aspect to this Support Group is listening with respect. Please listen to others quietly without interrupting. Respect others’ choices, cultures, and communication styles.

•If you are experiencing intense emotional states that may lead to other group members feeling uncomfortable you may ask a facilitator to talk with you 1-on-1 outside of the room. 

•If you are unable to stick to the group guidelines it may be necessary to leave the group and try again another time.

•This group is for survivors of the mental health system, people who have experienced extreme emotional states, and our allies. If you are affiliated with the mental health system (as a therapist, social worker, etc.) please identify yourself as such at the beginning of the meeting.