+ What is a Contemplative Circle?

Contemplative Circles are founded on wisdom traditions and practices that emphasize discernment, deep listening, authentic connection and creative perspective. Circles meet in small groups, in-person or via Zoom, for support and community around similar issues related to various fields.

The Contemplative Circle approach is a method aimed to create a process of shared exploration around personal and vocational questions and challenges. The process brings about the imagination, wisdom, courage, and connection of the group, both individually and collectively. We believe that supporting the inner development of leaders and practitioners is what will help transform our outer world. Circles are an investment in yourself, your group members, and the impact you will have in the world.

+ Who facilitates the Circle?

A knowledgeable and skilled facilitator guides the group throughout the process. Our facilitators have been trained in a combination of coaching, leadership development, psychology, counseling, adult education and spiritual direction. Your facilitator is trained to guide the group throughout the process and create a supportive atmosphere for authentic sharing and connection.

+ Who participates in the Circle?

A Contemplative Circle is comprised of 4-8 participants plus a Circles International facilitator. Groups are intentionally capped at 8 participants to ensure quality and depth of the program. Each Circle has a unique focus area to meet the needs of a particular field or vocation. We take care in matching you to a Circle that will have shared resonance, as well as helpful outside perspectives and neutrality to broaden your horizon.

We take confidentiality very seriously when forming a new Circle. Each member of the group commits to confidentiality at the beginning of the process. This ensures that mutual trust and respect can be fostered from the beginning and even after the end of the program.

+ When and where do Circles meet?

Our Contemplative Circles cohorts meet monthly, at a mutually agreed upon time, either bi-monthly or monthly, for 75 minutes. Groups commit to meeting 6 times over the course of 3-6 months. At the end of the program, the group can collectively decide to extend their time together and for what length of time. Groups meet online via Zoom, to allow for greater access to those interested in participated.

+ Can I request a Circle of a specific demographic (gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, etc.)?

Absolutely. We value diversity in all of our programs and will generally attempt to match you with a diverse group. However, our primary aim is to create a safe space for you to explore your inner and outer life, for whatever is arising at this point in your life. Please feel free to state any additional preferences in your Interest Form and we will do our best to accommodate your requests.

+ What if I need special accommodations?

We aim to create a space that supports and serves each member of the Circle, regardless of ability or disability and prior life experiences. Please let us know if you require any special accommodations to make the Circle more comfortable for you. All information is kept confidential to the facilitator and internal Circles International team.

+ What is included and what is the cost of participating?

The full tuition for the 6-month program is $800, which includes all pre-meeting correspondence to match you with the right circle, your Circle "orientation" session, six 75-minute Circle meetings, optional email and phone check-ins between meetings with your facilitator, logistics and administrative support.

We are committed to making our programs accessible regardless of financial status, and offer a sliding scale rate of $500-$800. This includes the full program offerings stated above. We ask that participants discern their financial need and pay at the top of their financial ability, to allow us to keep our programs as financially accessible as possible.

If cost remains a barrier for you to participate, please email us at info@circlesinternational.org. Both financial aid and work-trade options are available. We will work with you to find an option that is right for you. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

+ How do I join a Circle?

Ready to join a Contemplative Circle? The first step is to apply below! A member of our team will then contact you directly by email with next steps on connecting you to a Circle that meets your needs. We may request a 15-minute phone conversation to better discern your needs and desires for joining so that we can connect you with the right group. We are committed to connecting you with a Circle that will support your unique inner growth and development. If needed, we may place you on a waiting list until we find the right circle for you.