Bullying has been an issue that was, up until somewhat recently, not taken seriously. The act of bullying can leave a person with lifelong effects, including his/her ability to trust others. It can lead to avoiding social situations and feeling depressed. For children, it can affect a child’s approach and grades in a school setting and, for adults, can affect their work and relationships. Some research has shown that individuals with disabilities are two to three times more likely to be bullied on a regular basis (PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, 2015).

The Psychotherapy Center of New Jersey, which facilitates group therapy, also specializes in many departments, such as youth and adolescent counseling, individual counseling, and family and couple therapy. The Psychotherapy Center of New Jersey has established a two-part series to address bullying behaviors through educational and interactive sessions that will teach the participants how to recognize bullying and what actions they could take in different situations. Each participant will leave with a skill set of how to advocate for themselves and their friends, and more knowledgeable of some of their rights.

If you would like more information on this interactive workshop, you can access the flyer through their website, as well as register online at www.psychotherapycenterofnj.com.

The cost per session will be $50 per person, which includes light refreshments. This interactive bullying workshop is to be held at the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades, in Tenafly, on February 2 and February 9, from 6 until 7:30 p.m.

It is open to ages 16 and up, and groups will be divided according to age. For questions, please email [email protected]. Registration must be completed by January 26, 2016, and is on a first-come basis.

By Stephanie Shapiro