The purpose of this program is to provide educational information, facilitated discussion, and peer community for individuals living with chronic illness and pain.

This program is intended to support learning, self-reflection, nervous system education, and community connection. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the following:

I understand that all information presented during this program is provided for educational purposes only.

I acknowledge that participation in this program does not establish a therapist-client relationship, physician-patient relationship, counselor-client relationship, or any other licensed healthcare provider relationship.

I understand that Abby Lopac is participating in this program in the role of an educator and facilitator.

Although Abby is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist, no massage therapy, manual lymphatic drainage treatment, diagnosis, assessment, or hands-on healthcare services are being provided through this program.

I understand that Abby is not acting as a licensed mental health therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, physician, or other licensed mental health or medical provider during this program.

I understand that the information shared during this program is not medical advice, mental
health treatment, psychological counseling, diagnosis, or individualized healthcare
recommendations.
I agree that I will consult my own qualified healthcare providers regarding medical or mental
health concerns.

I understand that I am solely responsible for my own physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing
before, during, and after participation.
I agree to participate only to the extent that feels appropriate for my own body and nervous
system.

I acknowledge that I may pause, leave, or discontinue participation at any time.

I understand that this program may include breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, gentle
movement, body awareness exercises, journaling, visualization, and other educational nervous
system practices.
I acknowledge that these activities may bring up unexpected emotions or physical sensations.
I agree to participate voluntarily and discontinue any activity that does not feel appropriate for
me.

I understand that this program is not intended to provide crisis intervention.
If I am experiencing thoughts of harming myself or others, a medical emergency, or a mental
health crisis, I understand that I should immediately contact emergency services, my healthcare
provider, or an appropriate crisis resource.

I understand that every individual responds differently to education and personal growth programs.
No guarantees or promises have been made regarding outcomes, symptom improvement, emotional wellbeing, or health improvements.

I voluntarily choose to participate in this program.

I understand that participation involves personal reflection and discussion that may evoke emotional responses.

I knowingly assume responsibility for my own participation and any resulting outcomes.

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, I voluntarily release and hold harmless Abby Lopac and her business from claims, liabilities, damages, losses, or expenses arising out of my voluntary participation in this program, except where liability cannot legally be waived or results from intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

I understand that participants may choose to connect with one another outside of scheduled group meetings.

I acknowledge that Abby Lopac does not supervise, monitor, or assume responsibility for relationships, communications, advice, meetings, or interactions that occur outside of official program activities.

I assume full responsibility for my own decisions regarding contact with other participants outside of the program.

I understand that while the facilitator will make reasonable efforts to encourage confidentiality among participants, confidentiality cannot be absolutely guaranteed because other participants are independent individuals whose actions are outside the facilitator's control.

I understand that Abby Lopac reserves the right to remove any participant whose behavior violates the Community Participation Agreement or compromises the wellbeing, safety, or integrity of the group.

I understand that removal decisions will be made at the facilitator's reasonable discretion.

I certify that:

• I have carefully read this document.
• I have had the opportunity to ask questions.
• I understand the nature and purpose of this program.
• I understand that participation is voluntary.
• I understand that I may discontinue participation at any time.
• I freely and voluntarily agree to these terms.