Kids’ Play/Art Support Group
Offered by Dr. Diana Bermudez
Connected While Away
Group consists of 6 sessions of 55 min.
Starting 2/25/25 and ending 4/2/25.
Weekdays at 4 or 5pm (TBD to fit with majority).
2219 N Columbus St, Arlington, VA.
Children ages 6-10 who are separated from a primary caregiver meet and bond with peers in similar circumstances, using play, art making and mindful movement.
Separation from caregiver could be due to parents’ divorce/separation, overseas work posting, military deployment, inability to be caregiver and others.
With Dr. D’s facilitation and interaction with their peers, children will be supported to cope with the caregiver’s absence, and practice forms of strengthening their long-distance connection.
For children who do not live with their biological parent(s), we require legal documents stating that the legal guardian who is registering the child for the group can make decisions about the child’s extra-curricular activities.
Group Size
The group’s size is small (4-7 participants) in order to guarantee individualized attention.
Leaders
Dr. Diana Bermudez (aka Dr. D) will facilitate the group sessions with assistance from an intern (senior student in high school), who has completed Advanced Placement (AP) psychology and related courses, and has experience working with young children, and training/supervision by Dr.D.
Steps for Registration
1. E-mail Dr. D to schedule a 10-minute screening over the phone, to ensure the group is the best option for your child. Alternative forms of counseling will be provided if needed. Please specify the best times and number to reach you.
2. Attend a 60-min intake with your child to discuss background information, sign consent form, and become familiar with Dr. D and her play/art office.
Timing
There will be 6 consecutive weekly sessions of 55 minutes, expected to happen between 2/22/25 and 4/22/25, at 4pm or 5pm on a week day. The specific time and day of the week will be determined according to the availability of the majority of interested participants. Consistent weekly attendance is essential for building relationships and benefitting from the group.
Cost
The cost of the initial intake session is $200. A subsequent payment of $800 for the 6 sessions of the group is due 1 week before the group begins. These fees are typically not covered by health insurance plans. Discounted rates are available upon request for families with financial need.
Inclusion Intent
The group is design to welcome participants of all gender expressions, neurodiversity, ethnicities, immigration status, physical uniqueness, races, and religions. Unfortunately, Dr. D’s office is not wheel-chair accessible, as the building does not have an elevator or wheelchair bathroom. However, front stairs consist of only 7 steps.