Support Groups

Are you looking for ways to connect with other parents/caregivers? A cornerstone of the WSA's programming is our virtual Support Groups. Our topic-specific networking groups allow parents and caregivers of people with Williams syndrome who have a specific need to meet and discuss challenges and strategies. Our support groups gather virtually monthly to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer private "peer-to-peer" support. The groups are usually facilitated by a volunteer member of our community, although sometimes the focus of the group requires a WSA staff member or professional in the specific area of focus. Groups are created based on the needs in our WS community.

Not sure if Support Groups are your thing? Check out this video.

If you would like to join or lead one of these networking groups or request that a specific support group be formed, go to our volunteer page, or email familysupport@williams-syndrome.org.

Calendar

Click on the meeting to join!

Current Groups (In Alphabetical Order):

NEW HOST! 4 & Under Group

For Parents/caregivers of children with WS ages 4 and under

The first years with Williams syndrome are a whirlwind. Some families have piles of hospital trips and surgeries, while others juggle different therapies and family drama. This meeting is the monthly video chat for parent/caregivers of a child age 4 or under Williams syndrome. We will gather as parents/caregivers to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meeting Dates (Third Monday of each month)*

Monday, March 16 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, April 20 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, May 18 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, June 15 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, August 17 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, September 21 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, October 19 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, November 16 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Raschell Couch (4 & Under): Raschell Couch has a five year old son with WS. She believes connection and support are vital to the success of our loved ones with WS! Join this support group to help each other navigate some of the obstacles we face and connect with other families who understand you!

Adult Sibling Group

For Adult siblings of individuals with Williams syndrome

We recognize that siblings share the concerns and successes of their loved ones with Williams syndrome. This group will be a place where adult siblings can gather to share fears, frustrations, and ideas as they navigate this life-long, ever-changing journey.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meet Dates (Third Sunday of each month)*

Sunday, January 18 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, February 15 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, March 15 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, April 19 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, May 17 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, June 21 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, August 16 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, September 20 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, October 18 @ 8 PM ET
Sunday, November 15 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Varun Indugula (Adult Siblings) is a student at UNC studying neuroscience and developmental disorders, who lives with his family, including his brother Prannoy (WS)

Anxiety in Adults Group

For Parents/Caregivers of Adults with WS with Anxiety

Anxiety and Williams syndrome seem to fit together like a hand in a glove. However, anxiety can quickly build and take over the life of someone with WS. This meeting is the monthly video chat for parents/caregivers of adults with Williams syndrome and anxiety. We will gather to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meeting Dates (4th Thursday of each month)*

Thursday, January 22 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, February 26 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, March 26 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, April 23 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, May 28 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, June 25 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, August 27 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, September 24 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, October 22 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, November 19 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Melissa Hunt (4 & Under, Anxiety in Adults): Melissa is a mother of four—including a child with Williams syndrome. She and her husband live in the Charleston area of South Carolina. Melissa is a consultant for a communication firm, specializing in organizational psychology, and is also the owner of gourmet cookie and soda shop. She holds a degree in Clinical Psychology and previously worked at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute, the National Ability Center, and in private practice. Her clinical background includes a focus on Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and she holds certifications through PATH and EAGALA. She currently serves as Chairperson of the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council, sits on the South Carolina PTA Board as the Low Country District PTA President, and is in her third year as PTA President at her children’s elementary school. Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Melissa enjoys horseback riding, surfing, snow skiing, reading, and oil painting. Her greatest joy is spending time with her husband and children—especially teaching them to ride, playing at the beach or pool, and exploring new places together.

Anxiety in Kids Group

For Parents/caregivers of Children (18 & under) with WS and Anxiety

Anxiety and Williams syndrome seem to fit together like a hand in a glove. However, anxiety can quickly build and take over the life of someone with WS. This meeting is the monthly video chat for parents/caregivers of children (18 & under) with Williams syndrome and anxiety. We will gather to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support.

This group is on hold due until we are able to find a host/moderator. If you are interested in leading this group, contact Joel Liestman at joel@williams-syndrome.org

CCFC: Complex Communicators and Feeding Challenges Group

For Parents/caregivers of children with feeding issues and/or complex communicators

Some individuals with WS take a bit longer to develop speech, muscle tone for feeding, and listening and speaking skills. However, these individuals still eat and have ideas and opinions to share! The Complex Communicators and Feeding Challenges (CCFC) Family Support Network is where parents and caregivers of individuals with WS who are non-verbal, have speech or feeding issues or use non-traditional methods of communication can share ideas, support each other, and meet with professionals.

2026 Meeting Dates (Second Monday of each month)*

Monday, January 19 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, February 9 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, March 9 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, April 13 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, May 11 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, June 8 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, August 10 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, September 14 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, October 12 @ 8 PM ET
Monday, November 9 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Bianca Corozzo (CCFC) is a NYS Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with over 23 years of experience in the field. In addition to her credentials in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, she holds a NYS School Building Leader Certification, demonstrating her commitment to educational leadership. Throughout her career, Bianca has held various roles, including Speech Therapist, Assistant Principal, Speech Evaluator, and Consultant. Her expertise lies in diagnosing and treating speech, language and behavioral challenges in both preschool and school-age children.

Challenging Behavior Group

For Parents/caregivers of adults with challenging behaviors and/or moods

There is no "one way" to have Williams syndrome. Williams syndrome is a spectrum with lots of amazing victories and often some extremely difficult challenges. This meeting is the monthly video chat for the parent/caregiver of an adult with Williams syndrome exhibiting challenging behaviors and/or moods. We will gather to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support.
- This group is on hold due until we are able to find a host/moderator. If you are interested in leading this group, contact Joel Liestman at joel@williams-syndrome.org

Host:
TBD

Craft and Convo Group

For Any Parents/Caregivers of Individuals with WS

Do you like to Sew-cialize with other WS parents/caregivers? Are you hooked on crochet? Are you up for a soap-er fun time? Scrap on over to the Craft and Convo Group! ALL KINDS OF CRAFTING WELCOME! Learn a new skill! Show off what you're working on! Ask questions about WS, crafting, or anything! Spend an hour with other parents and caregivers de-stressing from the daily chaos. Sometimes we all needle little help!

Better Know This Support Group Here!
- This group will be back in 2026.

Want to start crafting, but not sure what you want to do? Check out this handy list and start exploring!

Host:
Christina Fitzgerald (Craft and Convo) is a Williams Syndrome mom, bonus mom, and grandma. My crafts of choice are: counted cross stitch, wire-wrapped jewelry, and knitting. My mother taught me counted cross stitch when I was in grade school. I studied jewelry design and fabrication in high school and college, and I taught myself to knit in 2005 from the time-tested book, “Knitting for Dummies,” wherein I discovered the hard way that knitting through the back loops (TBL) and just plain knitting (K) are not, in fact, the same thing – turns out deciphering two-dimensional images is just as hard as doing math in public.

…attempted crochet, but my left hand got jealous. And using my sewing machine is just as challenging as remembering how to play gin rummy and dancing the 2-step – someone has to re-teach me every time I try it. Let’s craft!

Melissa Davis is the Director of Communications and Social Media for the WSA. She is also an expert in Junk Journaling.

Dual Diagnosis Group (Autism & WS)

For Parents/caregivers of children and adults with a dual diagnosis of Williams syndrome and Autism

There is no "one way" to have Williams syndrome. That is especially true when WS is paired with Autism. This meeting is for parents/caregivers of individuals with Williams syndrome who have also been diagnosed with Autism. We will gather to discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support. Periodically, a medical advisor experienced with adults with Williams syndrome who have also been diagnosed with ASD will join the discussion.

Better Know This Support Group Here!
- This group will return in 2026

Hosts (Rotating):
Dr. Elizabeth Barnhardt (WS & Autism) is a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician and Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University. She currently serves as a Co-Director of the Williams Syndrome Clinic at Nationwide and has a special interest in supporting children with both Williams syndrome and ASD and their families. She is also interested in medical education and is engaged with the Ohio State University College of Medicine as the Director of Competency in Interprofessional Collaboration and the Interprofessional Education Champion. She also has a passion for collaboration with primary care providers regarding the care of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and is engaged in several projects related to developmental screening and primary care provider training to care for children with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dr. Bonnie Klein-Tasman (WS & Autism) is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She has conducted research about the development of children with Williams syndrome about common behavior challenges, anxiety, personality, and also about overlaps in behaviors with autism spectrum disorders.

Dr. Rebecca (Becca) Lyren, PhD (WS & Autism) is a licensed psychologist in integrated primary care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She also is part of the Williams syndrome clinic team at Nationwide Children’s. In both roles, Dr. Lyren aims to improve access to quality care for children with disabilities and their families.

Grandparent Group

For Grandparents of individuals with Williams syndrome

Grandparents walk an exciting and wonderful tightrope: you love and care for your grandchild with WS, and you also want to help support your kid trying to parent the child. If you're a grandparent/caregiver of a child with Williams syndrome, join our WS Grandparent Family Support Network. This group will discuss experiences, share thoughts, and offer support. There will also be opportunities to talk with experts about navigating complex family dynamics where a person with Williams syndrome is involved.

Better Know This Support Group Here!

2026 Meeting Dates (First Thursday of each month)*

Thursday, January 8 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, February 5 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, March 5 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, April 2 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, May 7 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, June 4 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, August 6 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, September 3 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, October 1 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, November 5 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Julie Oglesbee (Grandparent) is a Family Support Specialist in Ohio and has been a long-time WSA volunteer at camps, national conventions, and regional WS awareness events. She is the grandmother to Grayson (WS) and a passionate supporter of the community.

Grief Support for Parents/Caregivers Who Have Lost Someone with WS

Grief Support for Parents/Caregivers Who Have Lost Someone with WS

Throughout the grief journey, many parents/caregivers find value in coming together with others who can understand and appreciate the intense grief of losing a loved one with WS. This is an opportunity to join with others who understand how difficult loss can be. Sometimes just being present in such a setting can be comforting. There is no pressure to talk — we understand the value of simply gathering together.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meeting Dates (Third Thursday of each month)*

Thursday, January 15 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, February 19 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, March 19 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, April 16 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, May 21 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, June 18 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, August 20 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, September 17 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, October 15 @ 8 PM ET
Thursday, November 19 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Right now, we are only offering this to Parents and Caregivers. A grief support group for individuals with WS who have lost loved ones is currently in the planning stages.

Host:
Lana Hughes is a longtime WSA volunteer who began her grief journey in 2022 when her son, Spencer, passed away suddenly. She continues to be a fierce advocate and remains close to the adult WSA community.

The Open Discussion Group

Open Discussion Group for ANY AND ALL Parents/Caregivers of Individuals with WS

This virtual support group is for any and all parents and caregivers of individuals with Williams syndrome. It’s a welcoming space to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who understand the unique joys and challenges of raising someone with WS. Whether you’re brand new or have been on this journey for years, you’re not alone—we’re in this together.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meeting Dates (First Wednesday of each month)*

Wednesday, January 7 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, February 4 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, March 4 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, April 1 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, May 6 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, June 3 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, August 5 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, September 2 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, October 7 @ 8 PM ET
Wednesday, November 4 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Joel Liestman (Open Discussion Group, WSA Director of Family Support) lives in Maple Grove, MN, with his wife, Jennifer, and their son, Bennett (WS).

Michelle Self (Transition to Adulthood, 'Think College' Programs) has worked for over 20 years with families of students with Williams syndrome to help them access an appropriate education and achieve their full potential. She started her career as a Materials Engineer in quality assurance, and then she opted for a career change and completed a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Special Education. She has worked as an adjunct professor at Bowling Green State University teaching junior-level students how to assess all types of learners, to write effective IEPs, and to assist in students’ transition from high school. At the same time, she regularly consulted with hundreds of families across the country. She is also one of the primary educational consultants for the WSA.

NEW GROUP! School Age Kids (age 5-12)

For Parents/Caregivers of School Age Kids with WS (age 5-12)

This monthly group is a space for families raising school-age children with WS to connect, share, and problem-solve together. We’ll talk about everything from IEPs and behavior to sleep struggles, food battles, friendships, and the everyday wins in between. Come as you are, ask questions, swap ideas, and leave knowing you’re not doing this alone.

2026 Meeting Dates (1st Tuesday of each month)*

Tuesday, March 3 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, April 7 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, May 5 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, June 2 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, August 4 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, September 1 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, October 6 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, November 3 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Melissa Hunt (School Age Kids, Anxiety in Adults): Melissa is a mother of four—including a child with Williams syndrome. She and her husband live in the Charleston area of South Carolina. Melissa is a consultant for a communication firm, specializing in organizational psychology, and is also the owner of gourmet cookie and soda shop. She holds a degree in Clinical Psychology and previously worked at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute, the National Ability Center, and in private practice. Her clinical background includes a focus on Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and she holds certifications through PATH and EAGALA. She currently serves as Chairperson of the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council, sits on the South Carolina PTA Board as the Low Country District PTA President, and is in her third year as PTA President at her children’s elementary school. Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Melissa enjoys horseback riding, surfing, snow skiing, reading, and oil painting. Her greatest joy is spending time with her husband and children—especially teaching them to ride, playing at the beach or pool, and exploring new places together.

Transition from High School Group

For Parents/Caregivers of an individual with WS preparing to transition from High School.

Some have described life after High School for people with WS as falling off a cliff. This support group hopes to create a softer landing by discussing tools, resources, and opportunities for families.

Better Know This Support Group Here

2026 Meeting Dates (Second Tuesday of each month)*

Tuesday, January 20 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, February 10 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, March 10 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, April 14 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, May 12 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, June 9 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, August 11 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, September 8 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, October 13 @ 8 PM ET
Tuesday, November 10 @ 8 PM ET

*meeting dates subject to change

Host:
Michelle Self (Transition to Adulthood, 'Think College' Programs) has worked for over 20 years with families of students with Williams syndrome to help them access an appropriate education and achieve their full potential. She started her career as a Materials Engineer in quality assurance, and then she opted for a career change and completed a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Special Education. She has worked as an adjunct professor at Bowling Green State University teaching junior-level students how to assess all types of learners, to write effective IEPs, and to assist in students’ transition from high school. At the same time, she regularly consulted with hundreds of families across the country. She is also one of the primary educational consultants for the WSA.

Learn more about our Support Groups

Support Groups

Not sure if Support Groups are your thing? Check out this video.

Calendar

This group is on hold due until we are able to find a host/moderator. If you are interested in leading this group, contact Joel Liestman at joel@williams-syndrome.org

This group is on hold due until we are able to find a host/moderator. If you are interested in leading this group, contact Joel Liestman at joel@williams-syndrome.org

This group will be back in 2026.

This group will return in 2026