Finding
Fatherhood
A Support & Education Group For New & Expectant Fathers
What is Finding Fatherhood?
Let’s be real. The transition to fatherhood is one of the biggest life changes you will ever experience. If not the single biggest. It’s nothing short of an existential shift. Do you want an event like that to forge you or fray you? Because it can assuredly do either. Finding Fatherhood is a therapeutic support and education group for expectant dads and fathers of children under 12 months of age. If you want to use the birth of your child to become a better husband, father, and human, it might be exactly what you need.
You’ll Get…
Peer Support
Meet other new fathers going through something similar to what you are. Show up for these men and allow them to show up for you.
Essential Knowledge
Learn how to form a secure relationship with your child and support your family from an emotional standpoint.
Partner Support Skills
Build the skills to strengthen your relationship and better support your partner through their experience of becoming a parent.
Self-Care Skills
Develop tools to self-regulate, manage stress, and prioritize your well-being during this chaotic time.
Communication Skills
Enhance your ability to communicate effectively with your partner, family, and even your newborn.
Questions Answered
Get answers to all your pressing questions about becoming and being a dad.
Hi. I’m Erik.
I'm the guy behind Finding Fatherhood and a mental health counselor. More importantly, I’m a dad. Since we’re being real—I’m not a perfect father, nor do I claim to be a parenting “expert.” I am, however, committed to the hard work of becoming a better father every single day. Through that commitment, I’ve picked up a bunch of valuable insights and skills. Skills and insights that I wish I’d had sooner! Finding Fatherhood is my way of helping other men in the Roaring Fork Valley make their own journey into fatherhood as smooth as possible.
Logistics
Five In-Person Sessions on Tuesday Nights in Carbondale
Dates & Times:
November 12th, 19th, (No session Thanksgiving week)
December 3rd, 10th, 17th
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Investment:
$100 for the full series with a commitment to attend at least four out of the five sessions.
Location:
Mountain Town Mental Health
1941 Dolores Way, Carbondale, CO 81623
Note:
This is an intimate group, limited to 6 participants. Applications are due by November 8th—secure your spot early!
FAQs
Why should I participate?
Because, if we are being real—fatherhood can be amazing, but it’s also a wild and bumpy ride. And, our society isn’t set up to support new fathers so that they can then turn around and skillfully support their new families. That’s why this group exists. It’s intentionally designed to give new fathers the kind of support and tools they need to make the early days of parenthood just a bit more manageable.
Is it worth it?
Past participants have reported it to be a highly valuable experience. Especially the support group aspect of it. You really have very little to lose and potentially everything to gain when you choose to participate.
How will this group help me connect with my new baby?
In the group, we will focus on emotional awareness and attachment, which are key to bonding with your baby. You’ll learn how to self-regulate, be present, and be patient. And, you’ll learn how to connect in meaningful ways—whether through small daily interactions or deeper emotional attunement.
How will this group help me connect with my partner?
This group will provide you with valuable tools and techniques for effective communication and emotional support, helping you understand and respond to your partner’s needs during this turbulent time. By sharing experiences with other dads, you'll also learn strategies to strengthen your relationship and create a more cohesive parenting team.
Is this a therapy group?
Yes. This is technically a therapy and psychoeducation group. However, I invite you to think of it as a supportive space where you can connect with other dads, learn practical skills, and share your experiences in a relaxed, confidential setting.
What if I can’t make every session?
Life happens! While I encourage consistency to get the most out of the group, I understand that things come up. You are asked to attend a minimum of four out of the five sessions. And, if you get sick and can’t make it to all four or your kiddo has a blow out in public place right before group and you can’t make it, that’s okay too. The more you come, the greater the impact it might have on your life.
Is this group open to fathers that already have children?
Yes! If you already have a kid/kiddos, but have another on the way or have a new one under a year old, this group is open to you. You may just learn a thing or two that will help your with your slightly older kids, or something that will make your relationship or job as a parent just a bit easier.
Will we learn the “hard skills” of being a new parent?
Not exactly. While you’re welcome to ask the other dads for tips on things like swaddling, burping, or diaper-changing hacks, that’s not the core focus of this group (plus, the local hospitals offer great classes for that). Instead, we’ll dive into the "soft skills"—the emotional and relational tools that help you navigate the ups and downs of fatherhood, build strong connections with your partner, and stay grounded through it all.
What if I have more questions?
Please email erik@mountaintownmh.com with any additional questions.