What are HVN Groups?
Hearing Voices Network groups are non-judgemental, open-minded spaces designated for people who hear voices, see visions, experience wild energy or have other unusual or unshared sensory experiences. Strictly speaking, HVN groups are not support groups. The reason why we don't identify them as support groups is because not all voice hearers view their experiences as a problem in need of support. Some view this phenomenon as a gift -- as something to be shared and explored, not treated and eliminated. We value the dialogue between different frameworks and attitudes about what these experiences mean. We firmly believe we are entitled to view our experiences using whatever framework we choose. If you believe the voices you hear are a sign of mental illness, you are just as welcome to attend an HVN group as someone who believes their voices are a sign of a spiritual presence. We honor your experiences no matter how you interpret them. HVN facilitators do not force any particular framework on anyone. Instead, we encourage each other to share our experiences in an atmosphere of mutual respect. The result can be transformative.
What makes HVN groups different than other "mental health" groups?
Plenty!
First, in HVN we make no assumption of illness. The choice of whether to believe these experiences are a sign of illness is a sacred right, one that belongs to each of us. Voices, visions and other unusual experiences are regarded as real and potentially meaningful. The group is a place where all beliefs are welcome.
Second, we don't impose any particular framework or belief system on group members by using diagnostic language in our name. Instead of a name like "Schizophrenics Anonymous" - a name that assumes participants believe in the concept of Schizophrenia, Hearing Voices groups are open to all frameworks. HVN facilitators promote an atmosphere of personal choice and self-empowerment, recognizing that what framework we choose to use is an individual right and that we also have the right to change our minds at any time.
Third, Hearing Voices groups are neither pro nor anti-psychiatry. HVN was actually founded on the work of a psychiatrist, Marius Romme, who became critical of his own training when he realized the traditional approach toward voices wasn't very useful.
Instead of assuming all participants have the same attitude, HVN groups encourage an open-minded and respectful atmosphere where anything can be discussed, including the benefits as well as risks of mental health treatment and medication. There are a wide range of experiences and attitudes in HVN groups. Some people appreciate their relationship with mental health professionals and the effects of psychiatric drugs. Others choose to withdraw from the system as well as its treatments. HVN groups do not offer medical advice. What we do offer is a space where we can learn from one another and think for ourselves.
What makes HVN groups different than other "mental health" groups?
Plenty!
First, in HVN we make no assumption of illness. The choice of whether to believe these experiences are a sign of illness is a sacred right, one that belongs to each of us. Voices, visions and other unusual experiences are regarded as real and potentially meaningful. The group is a place where all beliefs are welcome.
Second, we don't impose any particular framework or belief system on group members by using diagnostic language in our name. Instead of a name like "Schizophrenics Anonymous" - a name that assumes participants believe in the concept of Schizophrenia, Hearing Voices groups are open to all frameworks. HVN facilitators promote an atmosphere of personal choice and self-empowerment, recognizing that what framework we choose to use is an individual right and that we also have the right to change our minds at any time.
Third, Hearing Voices groups are neither pro nor anti-psychiatry. HVN was actually founded on the work of a psychiatrist, Marius Romme, who became critical of his own training when he realized the traditional approach toward voices wasn't very useful.
Instead of assuming all participants have the same attitude, HVN groups encourage an open-minded and respectful atmosphere where anything can be discussed, including the benefits as well as risks of mental health treatment and medication. There are a wide range of experiences and attitudes in HVN groups. Some people appreciate their relationship with mental health professionals and the effects of psychiatric drugs. Others choose to withdraw from the system as well as its treatments. HVN groups do not offer medical advice. What we do offer is a space where we can learn from one another and think for ourselves.
I Want to Start an HVN Group!
Fantastic! We are happy you're interested in spreading this worldwide movement into your local community. We strongly encourage you to consider taking a 3-day facilitation training in order to have the tools and skills necessary to facilitate an HVN group.