you deserve space
Programs for Dads
Your whole life has changed!
We have programs to help normalize new challenges that are unique to fatherhood, make connections & friends, and support you during this phase and beyond. Join us at any of our classes or in a dad group.
Dear Dads, There is a reason birth or mom is not in our name - this is your space, too! Parenting spaces should not default to women only. Whether in one of our many programs or a dad group, we are here for you. love, The Family Room
Playgroups for Dads & Littles
Held once a month, our casual playgroups for dads and little ones are an opportunity to get out of the house, meet other dads, and make a friend! The drop-in groups are not only fun for babies & toddlers, but for dads, too.
Stay tuned for days and times!
Dad Support Groups
Led by Marriage and Family therapists Rob Novickas (LMFT) and Hunter Pritchett (AMFT) and dads themselves, the 8-week series will explore topics touched by fatherhood from loss of identity, to balancing family and work pressure, breaking negative family patterns from your own childhood, reconnecting with your partner and more.
Meet the Dad Group Leaders
Rob Novickas, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
"Having my now five-year-old daughter inspired me to run dads groups. The group holds space for dads to process their parenthood journeys. It's a space for dads to connect in meaningful, supportive ways that may not occur in your daily life. Whether you're a brand-new or veteran dad, I look forward to seeing you in Toluca Lake!"
Hunter Pritchett, Registered Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
"As a father of a young child, I have a particular interest in working with new dads to navigate the often-socially suppressed emotional, relational, and psychological challenges that come with new parenthood. I am excited to create community and a space for dads to connect at the San Marino location."
reasons why dads need support:
#1 Your whole life has changed too. From your identity to responsibilities, to relationships and more, fatherhood changes everything.
#2 Dads can experience postpartum depression. Often overlooked and not discussed, fathers can experience postpartum depression and anxiety, as well.
#3 It can often be harder for dads to find ways to connect with peers. Cultural norms, a lack of social networks, and less spaces for dads all contribute to isolation in fatherhood.
#4 It won't get better for mothers, unless we include fathers in parenting and caretaking roles. It doesn't serve women to exclude fathers from support or promote the idea mothers are the best caregivers.
The Family Room believes all parents should have access to education + community and that it is actually critical to the health of a family.
