Being There Now

We are currently working hard on the production and publication of our work book Being There Now.Here is the introduction taken from the work book.  As soon as its published it will be on sale here, eBay and hopefully in download format too. I’ll keep you updated on our progress… Marty.

To do anything effectively demands knowledge, training and practice. Caregiving is no exception. The authors have written this manual to achieve those objectives by creating a training program for the non-professional caregiver.

One of the unique characteristics of this program is its interactive format. The instructors and the participants will engage in exercises and dialogues that are designed to be interactive, and are meant to help the participants practice the skills being taught.

The authors have built the program around the concept that people wanting to be caregivers are already motivated to help others and that they have the personal life experiences that will allow them to become effective caregivers. As a result, this manual elicits from the participants their thoughts and feelings about the principles and skills that form the foundation for the work of caregiving. This aspect of the program also contributes to its interac­tive dimension.

Being There is a program that is “person centered.” It is centered first on the needs of the person seeking support or help, and secondly on increasing the self-aware­ness of the caregiver. At the same time, it strives to point out and clarify the skills, knowledge and boundaries that the caregiver needs in order to be effective.

This manual is intended to address the increasing demand for properly trained women and men who find themselves by choice or even by happenstance in the role of caregiver. Good intentions may not be enough, but they are the all-important first step on becoming an effective caregiver.
Robert Jones
Derek Smyth