Relational Unmasking
Relational Unmasking explores increasing neurodivergent authenticity. This can be liberating, relieving, joyful and validating. But what happens when my unmasking impacts another person in an unwanted way? Should my unmasking be solely for my own liberation, or does my impact on others factor in to the process?
What is it like to unmask in a relational way? How can I stay curious about my impact as I unmask and attend to it, while also staying true to myself? How can this inherent tension lead to healthy conflict, conflict in which we stay relational as we negotiate the various, sometimes opposite, needs?
Because the answers to these questions are not black and white, built into the Relational Unmasking model is a commitment to relational repair. In the Relational Unmasking groups we guide, we actively give and receive feedback about impact. My unmasking will likely impact others I care about. I want to know about that and take care of it. And I am also interested in being more and more myself in the face of others being more and more themselves in a way that is different than me. The negotiation of that space is Relational Unmasking.
Relational Unmasking group testimonials-
“I loved the inherently inclusive nature of the group - it became a really special place where I could show up and feel a safety that is often hard to find, let alone intentionally sit in community with for a dedicated few hours every week. In some ways it became a meditative process that served as an invaluable reminder that we (ND folx) exist and deserve to be witnessed lovingly as ourselves. Really appreciated being in the ND Center too - neat space (not wild about the new bed layout) - but pretty cool to have a dedicated community gathering space. Jenny, I really appreciate your facilitation style - I felt like it offered a nice framework and guided movement to the group process without personally leading too much. You created space for group convos and interests to naturally evolve and brought us back together in kind and gentle ways. " SG
“I liked the location, timing (Friday afternoon), length of each session, topics, the way Jenny facilitated, and the incorporation of somatic movement. I really appreciated how Jenny modeled unmasking and created a safe space for us to do the same. I’ve never felt safer in a room of relative strangers. I felt like each person’s experience was genuinely valued.” MP
“It's the most authentic communication I've had. The groups were so welcoming and understanding, I felt seen and respected by people who can relate to my experiences. It feels like finally finding my people, those I understand and who understand me. For as long as I can remember, I've walked away from social experiences feeling like something was missing. Now I actually know what that thing was and I've experienced connection that truly fills my cup. " AM
