Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Acceptance & Commitment Training Skills Group will run from April 5 through May 10. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) is an evidence-based approach that uses mindfulness and other strategies and experiences to reduce the impact of difficult or unpleasant thoughts and feelings. The goal of ACT is to help you learn through experience how to strengthen your mind and create psychological flexibility, which includes:
- the ability to be fully present (that is, to be aware of what you are thinking and feeling, as well as what is going on around you)
- being willing to accept what you are thinking and feeling, even if it is uncomfortable, unwanted or unpleasant
- the ability to direct your behavior to do what matters to you.
This is accomplished through six core processes:
- Contact With the Present Moment: being fully aware and present in your here and now experience vs. getting lost in thoughts or trying to control feelings.
- Acceptance/Willingness: making room for unpleasant feelings, thoughts etc., without trying to change them
- Cognitive Defusion: stepping back from, and observing thoughts and feelings, without being caught up in them.
- The Observing Self: contact with part of you that is an observer of thoughts, feelings, memories
- Values: clarifying what matters to you, the person you want to be, the things you want to do
- Committed Action: Life is in the doing; considering your values and your willingness to experience some discomfort can help you to do what matters.
Research has proven ACT can be effective with a diverse range of people, (including autistic and neurodivergent individuals) and those with a range of conditions (including ADHD, trauma, substance abuse and psychosis).
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodivergent individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Acceptance & Commitment Training Skills Group will run from April 5 through May 10. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) is an evidence-based approach that uses mindfulness and other strategies and experiences to reduce the impact of difficult or unpleasant thoughts and feelings. The goal of ACT is to help you learn through experience how to strengthen your mind and create psychological flexibility, which includes:
- the ability to be fully present (that is, to be aware of what you are thinking and feeling, as well as what is going on around you)
- being willing to accept what you are thinking and feeling, even if it is uncomfortable, unwanted or unpleasant
- the ability to direct your behavior to do what matters to you.
This is accomplished through six core processes:
- Contact With the Present Moment: being fully aware and present in your here and now experience vs. getting lost in thoughts or trying to control feelings.
- Acceptance/Willingness: making room for unpleasant feelings, thoughts etc., without trying to change them
- Cognitive Defusion: stepping back from, and observing thoughts and feelings, without being caught up in them.
- The Observing Self: contact with part of you that is an observer of thoughts, feelings, memories
- Values: clarifying what matters to you, the person you want to be, the things you want to do
- Committed Action: Considering your values and your willingness to experience some discomfort can help you to do what matters.
Research has proven ACT can be effective with a diverse range of people, (including autistic and neurodivergent individuals) and those with a range of conditions (including ADHD, trauma, substance abuse and psychosis).
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are small group skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodivergent individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to the event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Updated: Registration for Skills Groups is now closed. Our next Executive Functioning Skills Group will run from April 4 through May 9. The application window for that group will open in early March. Stay tuned for updates to our event calendar.
Do you struggle with unexpected changes?
Do you have trouble getting started on tasks?
Or maybe you have trouble stopping things you like to do when it’s time to do something you don’t like to do?
Have you ever avoided an experience or a person because of anxiety?
How about when you have a great idea, but have trouble creating and acting on a plan to get it done?
If so, learning more about Executive Functioning (EF) may be beneficial for you. Research has shown us that the skills underlying Executive Functioning can be taught, practiced and improved on. When EF skills are working, we tend to be happier and more productive.
We are excited to invite self-advocates and individuals who identify as autistic to attend this six-week Skills Group focused on Executive Functioning (EF). We will discuss and practice skills including: Cognitive Flexibility, Getting Started, Staying Present, Bringing your Anxiety along for the Ride, and Organization/Planning.
In this group, participants will learn about the importance of EF and how to improve EF skills through specific practice within a safe and supportive environment.
What are Skills Groups?
Skills Groups are skill development workshops that are facilitated by two Sinneave staff members (one is an autistic self-advocate). In each 90-minute workshop, participants learn a variety of strategies that are foundational to success in various aspects of daily life. They are then given opportunities to practice the strategies with the support of the facilitators and other group members.
Are Skills Groups for Me?
Skills Groups are best suited for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who…
- Are 15 years of age and older.
- Self-identify (or have been diagnosed) as being neuro-diverse and/or autistic.
- Are able to commit to 6 weeks of programming (90 minutes to 2 hours) once weekly.
- Are interested in learning and practicing key strategies that can have a positive impact on their daily routines.
- Can communicate verbally.
- Are willing to practice reflecting and sharing their thoughts with the group.
- Can reliably and independently participate in a group setting (e.g., arrive on time, communicate with group leader if you are unable to attend, do not require a one-to-one assistant).
- Will commit to keeping an open mind, and actively participating in program activities.
- Have reliable transportation arrangements to and from the program
If you can answer “Yes” to each of the statements above, our Skills Groups may be a good fit for you.
How Do I Apply?
Because we keep the groups small, Skills Groups are in high demand. Enrolment is limited to 4-6 participants per group and individuals may only register for one group at a time to allow for the greatest participation.
All applications are completed online. The online application portal opens three weeks before the start of the next Skills Group. When the application window is open, the link to apply will be LIVE on this page. (If you don’t see a link, we are not currently accepting applications.)
Please Note: Skills Groups are not intended for support workers, aides, caregivers, or other professionals.
If you would like more information about a particular group, please contact us at 403-210-5000 or info@sinneavefoundation.org to book an Information and Navigation meeting to learn about other programs and services.
Have you ever experienced challenges when trying to communicate or make a connection in social situations? Does the thought of joining a conversation with someone new make you anxious? This workshop is for people interested in learning easy strategies for entering conversations in social situations.
Wednesday, July 13 – 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
This workshop is part of our Drop-In Summer Workshop Series covering different topics that provide tips and strategies to help improve your ability to connect and thrive in social situations. Participants will have opportunities to learn and practice new skills, as well as receive feedback and mentorship.
There is no registration required. The workshops take place on various days and at different times of day, so please make sure you take note of these details.
Workshops will take place at The Ability Hub – #300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB – and will start promptly at the posted start time. To make the most of the group, please plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Parking Instructions: For those of you who will arrive in your own car, The Sinneave Family Foundation is pleased to cover the cost of your parking during the workshop. When you arrive, park your car in Lot 53 and do not buy a ticket. Come up to our reception desk on the 3rd Floor and let them know you are here for a Summer Series workshop and need a parking pass. Please ensure you allow enough time to take the pass back to your vehicle and return to the 3rd Floor before the workshop start time.