How does a person start an In-Person Hoarding Support Group? In this article, we'll find out from Beth Johnson, an accomplished support group organizer and leader.

What Works

• Practice non-perfectionism: Don't wait for the "perfect" time, place or meeting materials (such as meeting flyers).

  For example, make up a flyer, even if done in simple handwriting, and post it everywhere with contact information for the group. The key words "Clutter" and "Overwhelmed" will draw people to the group.

• Have a strong committed group leader who will keep the group going through the lean times.

• If attendance is falling, introduce occasional guest speakers ... or theme topics ... or video ... or survey forms ... or a new exercise.

• Have a scheduled time in place for "action items," in addition to talk.

  Examples of action: (a) letting go of an item to trash or donation (no swapping allowed), or (b) taking the time to pair people up to work together outside of the group.

• Focus on the positive accomplishments and applaud every victory, no matter how small. Become a cheerleader for the group.

• Repeatedly give credit to group members for their successes and shower re-enforcement to build self-esteem.

• Pass around a "networking sheet" so members can phone or visit each other outside of the group for support.

• Have a "sharing portion" with discussion of successes and difficulties.

  (Note that we use the word "difficulties" instead of the word "failures." The use of language nuances within a group setting is important.)

• Limit "sharing time" so that one person doesn't dominate the group.

  (Members of this group may be very verbal. Use of a visual three-minute timer is good for this purpose. The leader should make a "time out" sign if speaker runs over. No cross-talking during the sharing segment should be allowed.)

• Because of "time clutter" issues, be willing to make "nudge" phone calls and e-mails to members before the next support group. This can make all the difference in the success, or failure, of your group.

• Reserve a time for the all-important goal-setting portion.

• Because of "shame issues" involved, find a private meeting place. (Meeting at members' homes has been one of the successful challenges of my group. We believe in the slogan, "Break the isolations to increase the motivation.")

  Finding a private meeting place has proven itself to be healthy and helpful in releasing shame issues. It is done on a voluntary basis. Those who do agree to participate, reap the benefits of a half-hour's worth of group help after the meeting. This sometimes has the feeling of a party, or as "Bucket Brigades" where people help each other tidy up.

• Respect confidentiality at all times.

What Doesn't Work

• A group that is all talk and no action.

• A group that is unstructured.

• Having a group that only concentrates on nonproductive "moan and groan" aspects.

  (Example: A dumping ground for negative thoughts and feelings.)

• Getting discouraged if people don't come. You have to be inventive with new ways of outreach and encouragement.