Participants then break into small groups, each led by a facilitator. Participants are mixed by age and sex because each brings a different perspective to the small group. They stay with the same group throughout all 10 weeks to maintain continuity and to build trust. Anything discussed within a small group stays within the group. Members of the small groups are encouraged to keep in touch between sessions.
Many people maintain the friendships they develop during the seminars long after they finish.
The sessions cover eight topics. The first topic is adaptation. This session addresses the behavioral patterns people bring with them from their childhood and family of origin. The team members stress how important it is to understand the dynamics of the family of origin. Next is the grieving cycle.