Support Groups 

Programs

header-title-decorationSupport Groups 

Rancho patient support groups are co-facilitated by mental health providers or rehabilitation professionals along with KnowBarriers peer mentors. The collaboration of trained ‘life experts’ or peer mentors and clinical professionals offers patients and family members a safe place to share their feelings, learn essential coping strategies and resources to assist with the reintegration process. Support groups are offered in English and Spanish language or an interpreter may be available.  Support groups may occur on campus or virtually via Zoom.   

Visit the Don Knabe Wellness Center website for details. Rancho Virtual Wellness 

Adult Brain Injury Support Group 

The Invictus group meets weekly and is led by KnowBarriers peer mentors who have personal experience with recovery from acquired brain injury. Once a month, a Rancho Psychologist specializing in this patient population leads the group with participation of peer mentors. Survivors of acquired brain injury and family members are welcome to participate. 

 Aphasia Support Group 

A licensed speech and language pathologist and a peer mentor living with aphasia co-facilitate this group. Participants have the opportunity to socialize with peers and practice strategies to improve their communication skills. There is an English language and a Spanish language group; each meets weekly. 

 COPE – support for individuals battling addiction  

A licensed clinical social worker specializing in addiction facilitates the weekly support group. Participants can expect to learn about the dangers of addiction, discover coping skills and learn about additional resources to support their recovery.  

 For more information contact Rancho Clinical Social Work (562) 385-7867.  

 Pediatric / Adolescent Support Group 

Dealing with a life-changing injury or illness can feel overwhelming for pediatric patients and their families. The bi-monthly support group provides a safe environment for patients and family members to discuss challenges and find solutions. The group is led by clinical health care professionals with support from a KnowBarriers peer mentor with specific training to work with adolescents. Rancho inpatients and outpatients, ages 10-24 years old, are encouraged to participate. 

For additional information contact Julie Helgren, Recreation Therapist (562) 385-6745 

 Spinal Injury Support Group 

KnowBarriers spinal injury peer mentors lead this weekly support group. Individuals with a spinal injury and family members have the opportunity to share their journey of adjustment and learn about invaluable community resources, recommendations for equipment, updates on research, etc. There is an English language and a Spanish language group; each meets weekly. 

 Stroke Survivor Support Group 

Stroke survivor and founder of the Stroke Association of Southern California and KnowBarriers stroke peer mentors facilitate this weekly support group. Stroke Survivors and family members have the opportunity to share their journey of adjustment and learn about invaluable community resources, recommendations for equipment, updates on research, etc. There is an English language and a Spanish language group; each meets weekly. 

 Women with Disabilities Support Group 

Co-facilitated by a female Psychologist and female KnowBarriers peer mentors, this weekly support group is open to all women with a disability. Participants speak on a variety of topics related to their recovery journey and aspects of their experience that may be unique as a woman. 

Additional Support Groups on Campus 

Rancho also provides a meeting location for the following support groups that are not associated or facilitated by Rancho; but are beneficial for our patients and their families. 

MS Society of Southern California (MS) 

This weekly 4 hour self-help day program for individuals of all ages, and ability levels, living with MS.  The program is facilitated by individuals living with MS and guest licensed mental health professional and licensed fitness instructor. Participants explore strategies for daily living, movement, cognitive and emotional health.  

For additional information contact MS Society at 1 (800) FIGHTMS. 

 MS Youngsters 

This monthly self-help group is sponsored by the MS Society of Southern California for individuals age 17 and under, living with MS, and their family members. The group and meets the 4th Saturday of each month.  

 For additional information contact the MS Society at (310) 743-7289. 

 Youthful Peers Group- for Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis. 

Individuals in their 20s and beyond, currently living with MS and their family members, are invited to attend this monthly self-help group. The group is sponsored by the MS Society of Southern California and meets the 2nd Saturday of each month.  

 For additional information contact the MS Society at (310) 743-7289.