Group activities

The VIP team offers a variety of group activities. The following is an overview of the current options. Want to learn more or to sign up for a group? Talk to your therapist.

Starter group

Our starter group is for anyone who has recently started treatment with the VIP team. It is an informal, accessible group where we discuss a different topic each week. Examples include finding meaning, medication, exercise or sleep. The aim is to talk to one another about the week’s topic. The group meets every Thursday from 15:30 to 17:00 throughout the year.

The Young Ones

The Young Ones is a group for young adults who have noticed that they are getting stuck due to stress, depression, anxiety, mistrust, worrying or low self-confidence. During seven meetings, we learn ways to deal with difficult emotions and negative thoughts in a safe, informal and open environment. We talk about topics relevant to this stage of life such as work, relationships, symptoms, self-image, dreams and the future. There is room to share your experiences, complete practical exercises and have a meal together. The Young Ones is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT is a practical form of therapy that teaches you a different way of dealing with difficult thoughts and emotions, so that you can do more of the things you truly care about.

Bipolar group

This is a group for young adults who want to gain a better understanding of bipolar symptoms or their vulnerability to bipolar disorder. During seven meetings, we reflect on topics such as mood, mania, depression, recovery, treatment, medication, stress, self-management and stigma. You will learn to recognise early signs that things may not be going so well, receive practical tools to help track your moods and think about what keeps you more stable. There is room to share your experiences, ask questions and explore together what recovery means to you. We also hold one meeting for the people close to you, to help them understand what is going on and how to support you.

ReGrip

This is a group for people who want to stop using drugs or reduce their drug use responsibly. You may still have doubts, be unsure how to go about it, have noticed that drug use sometimes has drawbacks, or want more control over situations where you find it difficult to say no. Before joining the group, you will have an individual meeting to discuss your reasons, goals and expectations.
In seven meetings, we reflect on topics such as the pros and cons of drug use, setting goals, recognising high-risk situations, self-control, dealing with cravings, preventing relapse and saying no when offered drugs. There is room to share your experiences, do practical exercises and discover what works best for you step by step.

Get Togethers

Experiencing psychosis can be something that ultimately makes you stronger, but getting to that point isn’t easy. How can you regain your balance? What will help you feel well again? During GTGs, we talk with each other about topics such as work, relationships, meaningfulness, self-confidence, guilt, shame, stigma and self-care. You will find understanding and support in a group of young people who have been through similar experiences. Hearing other people’s stories can provide inspiration on ways to address certain things in your own life. There are seven meetings in total, taking place at the VIP team on Fridays from 15.30 to 17.00. This is an open group, so you can attend whenever you wish.

VIP Wordt Fit (Get Fit)

Ready to get moving? Are you receiving treatment from the VIP team and is being more active one of your goals? Interested in trying new things, working on your health and meeting new people? Join our multi-activity group! From kickboxing to football, bootcamps and other fun activities. We offer you easy ways to get fit and feel good about yourself. You can also get individual guidance to help you discover the best sport for you. The group meets every Tuesday from 16:00 to 17:00 at Sportcentrum De Pijp, Lizzy Ansinghstraat 88.

Please also take a look at our brochure We also have group activities for family and friends