FAQ
Below are some of the most common questions we get about our program. If you don't see your question listed, reach out and we'll be glad to help!
Index
What is CTHVN?
The Connecticut Hearing Voices Network is a peer-run network of free support groups for people who hear voices, see visions, or experience other altered states of reality. Our aim is to provide a space where people can discuss what's going on for them safely and without judgment.
What is a voice-hearer?
We use the term 'voice-hearer' as an umbrella term to cover a wide variety of experiences. CTHVN is here to support people who hear voices, see visions, have tactile sensations, experience paranoia or alter selves, and any other form of altered state. That's a mouthful, though, so we shorten it to 'voice-hearer'.
Are CTHVN groups therapy?
CTHVN groups are non-clinical, and are not therapy. Our groups are run by facilitators (many of whom are voice-hearers) who have received training in order to provide a confidential and supportive environment. There is no attendance taken, and you aren't required to talk if you don't want to. We believe listening to the stories of others has just as much value as sharing your own.
Who can attend CTHVN groups?
Our main support groups are limited to people with lived experience hearing voices. Our Friends and Family group is limited to people who are in non-clinical support roles to voice-hearers. Currently all of our groups are for people 18 and older, though we hope to eventually have groups for young people as well.
Where are CTHVN groups located?
We're adding new groups all the time, and if there isn't one near you, we have a lot of virtual groups that run as well. The best way to stay up to date is to check out our list on our Find A Group page. Click here to find a group near you!
I'm family, a friend, or a clinician. Can I attend with the voice-hearer I support?
Our main support groups are limited to people with lived experience hearing voices. As such, family, friends, and clinicians of voice-hearers are not able to attend. If you are dropping someone off, you are welcome to wait in a waiting room (if available) or in your car. For virtual meetings, you are allowed to be in the same room as the individual so long as you are unable to see their screen and they are wearing headphones which prevent you from hearing the meeting, but we recommend they be in a room by themselves if possible.
I'm a family member or friend of a voice-hearer. Where can I get support for my experience?
We believe that everyone deserves safe, confidential support for their experience!
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While our regular support groups are limited to only those who have lived experience hearing voices, seeing visions, etc., we know that the friends and family in their lives need support, too.
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Our virtual Friends and Family group is for people who are in support roles to voice-hearers. This group is a place to talk about your experiences, ask questions about voice-hearing, learn strategies of support, and more.
Our friends and family group is currently on hold. Please check here for updated group times.
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If you're a friend or family member looking for support in your personal experience, we invite you to join us at our friends and family group when it returns!
My family member and I both hear voices. Can we attend together?
In cases where two (or more) family members both have lived experience, we strongly encourage them to attend separate groups as we have found it increases people's ability to share freely about their experience.
I am a researcher, reporter, or need to observe a support group for training. Can I observe an HVN group?
We do not allow anyone into our groups for the purposes of clinical observation, research, or media, as it violates our charter and the privacy of the people we support. Our staff are happy to speak with you regarding any questions you have, including potential connections with voice hearers who are comfortable being interviewed for research purposes.