Group sessions are a shared space built on empathy, trust, confidentiality, and mutual respect. By joining a group, you agree that/to:

• Everything that is shared in the group is confidential, unless you state harm to yourself or others. You may share other’s lived stories or experiences outside of the group if that is beneficial to your healing journey, but without any names or identifying information.

• Speak from your own experiences and not others points of views.

• Active listening. We listen to other group members and do not cause any distractions amongst the group.

• Ask before we give advice or suggestions, and respect the other group members' boundaries.

• Create a supportive and nonjudgmental space for all participants.

• Individuals from all races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientation, abilities, religions, ages, socioeconomic status’s, backgrounds and family identities and experiences are welcome. I commit to using inclusive and affirming language, and ask that all participants do the same.

• Group discussions may include sensitive topics like fertility struggles, pregnancy loss, egg/sperm/embryo donation, adoption, trauma, grief, relationships, sexuality and sexual health including but not limited to sexually transmitted infections. Clients are encouraged to take space, step away, or reach out for one on one support if needed.

We will go over group agreements at the start of every session and I reserve the right to remove any participant whose behavior compromises the emotional or physical safety of the group.

If services are offered to minors (under age 18):

• A parent or legal guardian must provide written consent prior to the first session or group. Unless it is part of a school or other group, then it is up to the facilitators discretion what forms are needed or not for their participants.

• The minor’s privacy will be respected, but any concerns for their safety will be shared with their guardian and/or appropriate authorities, as required by law.

• Group participation for minors will be age-appropriate.

• Your privacy is deeply respected. 

• Information shared in our sessions and groups will be kept confidential, except as required by law or in situations where there is an imminent risk of harm to the client or others. I am a social worker, which means I am a mandated reporter. 

• As previously stated, personal information shared during sessions will be treated with care and confidentiality. However, our services are not bound by HIPAA laws. We encourage clients to share only what they feel comfortable disclosing.

• For online sessions, I use secure platforms, but please know that no digital system is 100% guaranteed. Use a private space where you feel comfortable and safe during our time together. Reach out if you want to use a different platform.

• Intellectual Property: Mariah Tuffy has copyright and ownership of her educational products. Clients may use the information they gain during the sessions for their own personal use. They are not permitted to share, modify, or resale.

• I am committed to providing a supportive, inclusive, and respectful environment for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, religion, age, socio economic status, or background.

• Participants are expected to engage with empathy, kindness, openness, and a willingness to honor the experiences and identities of others.

• Discrimination, harassment, or disrespectful behavior of any kind will not be tolerated in one on one sessions, group settings, trainings, or any form of communication related to these services. 

• If at any time these values are not upheld, services may be paused or discontinued at my discretion to maintain a safe and affirming space for all.