FAQ

What will I learn in the CircleTalk™ Leader Course?

The CircleTalk™ Leader Course prepares participants to skillfully lead structured and meaningful conversations in any setting where older adults gather. Our virtual training program is interactive with a focus on teaching and strengthening a variety of skills to effectively lead small groups in high engagement discussions so you can:

  • Understand group dynamics best practices to form healthy groups, promote meaningful engagement, and maximize participation.

  • Create a universally accessible environment for full group engagement (i.e., hearing loss, vision loss, and cognitive and memory challenges, etc.).

  • Effectively guide structured conversations that foster a sense of belonging and connection within the group.

  • Create a positive and open environment so that participants can share personal stories, insights, and feelings.

How long does it take to complete Leader training?

It only takes 2-3 hours per week – for 4 weeks – to complete Leader training. Upon completion, you will have all the tools you need to start holding your own Circles!

How do I start a Circle after I get trained? Will CircleTalk™ help me with marketing and support once I start a group?

We provide resources and information to help you get started, conduct outreach, attract participants, and organize your Circles.

Where are the best places to lead CircleTalk™ programs?

CircleTalk™ has been successfully adopted in many different kinds of settings where older adults gather, including:

  • Independent Senior Living Communities

  • Assisted Living Communities

  • 55+ Communities

  • Memory Care Communities

  • Senior Community and Recreation Centers

  • In-Home Care Settings

  • Houses of Faith

  • Senior Apartments

  • Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities • PACE Adult Day Programs

How will I know when I am ready to lead a group?

By the end of the CircleTalk Leader Course you will have the skills necessary to begin circles! Please use the videos on the academy available to you (for a limited amount of time) in the course and you will see how other leaders facilitate connection in a circle.

What is the ideal group size?

Most CircleTalk™ Circles are 8-12 people. In some settings, it makes sense to have smaller groups. We are happy to consult with you about all program details and how to make CircleTalk™ a success in your setting.

Is there a way for me to see a group in action?

Yes. We have CircleTalk™ groups in our video library. Contact Us if you need more information.

Do I have to take the CircleTalk™ Leader Training to use the Curriculum?

Yes. We have invested thousands of man hours creating and field-testing the CircleTalk™ Curriculum and want to be sure you are properly prepared to engage with older adults in their stories and memories. You will receive the first 13 weeks of the CircleTalk™ Curriculum when you complete the CircleTalk™ Leader Course along with program materials. Two followup sets of CircleTalk™ Curriculum are available for purchase.

Can I train my staff to do this?

We offer group discounts to organizations that want to train their staff. Please contact us if you would like to bring CircleTalk™ to your organization.