“Teen Mosaics” offers a safe space for teens with divorced parents to gather

Designed specifically with the needs of teens in mind, Doylestown’s Divorce Recovery Center is offering a support group for young people experiencing the struggles of divorcing parents.

“Teen Mosaics” will hold its first meeting from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Sept. 12, at the center’s office at 95 W. Court St. The meetings will continue on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

Teenagers 14 and older are welcome to attend the gatherings, where the center will have water, snacks and supplies for a variety of art projects. “Teens can expect to create different projects either individually or in collaboration with their group in a team-building project,” said Denise Palmer, DRC’s director of programs and outreach.

“We recognize that teens today are struggling on multiple levels with countless issues. We know that when you factor in the uncertainty and upheaval of divorce it only increases the difficulties of middle and high school students.”

While teens may resent going to a counselor, going to a support-type group like the DRC’s can be a reprieve for them, said Barbara Simmons, a DRC board member.

“If parents are fighting, they are often caught in the middle, and they tend to hide their pain and anger,” Simmons said. “Teen Mosaics” provides a place to meet others who are experiencing similar situations, and through art and activities, find a safe place to escape.

“Teens,” noted DRC board member Nell Bowers, “are mostly “groupies,” especially in a difficult situation. They don’t want to go anyplace alone, but will go most anyplace with a friend. A support group gives them a safe, confidential place to express, understand and process the myriad contradicting emotions they experience.

“Teen Mosaics” hopes to create just such a “welcoming community,” Palmer said.

The sessions are free, but teens will need to register to attend. Visit www.divorcerecoverycenter.org or call 800-242-6712 for information.

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