Classes & Support Groups

A new diagnosis can create a swirl of emotions and plenty of questions, whether you’re the patient, a caregiver, or a family member.

At the Ayer Neuroscience Institute, we provide resources that empower you with knowledge and support. Below, you’ll find resources --from webinars with experts to support groups with other patients and family members --to help answer your questions about diet, exercise, how to manage symptoms, and calm any fears.

We also offer classes to educate patients on the latest advances in minimally-invasive and robotic-assisted procedures so that you feel comfortable before undergoing treatment.


  • Free
    Wednesday, Aug 27, 2025, 1:30PM - 3:00PM

    Spine Pre-Operative Education Class for St. Vincent's Medical Center

    This class is for patients who will undergo spine surgery at Connecticut Orthopaedic Institute at St. Vincent's Medical Center, providing [...]

    St Vincent's Medical Center - Hawley Conf. Center 3A
  • Free
    Wednesday, Aug 27, 2025, 2:00PM - 3:30PM

    Spine Pre-Operative Education Class for MidState Medical Center

    This class is for patients who will undergo spine surgery at Connecticut Orthopaedic Institute at MidState Medical Center, providing [...]

    Midstate Medical Center (Conference Rooms 2&3)
  • Free
    Tuesday, Sep 02, 2025, 1:00PM - 2:00PM

    Spine Surgery Pre-Op Class - Backus/Windham Hospital

    This class is designed to educate patients having spine surgery at Windham & Backus Hospital and their support person to prepare you for [...]

    Backus Medical Office Building - Conference Room 130
  • Free
    Tuesday, Sep 09, 2025, 4:00PM - 4:30PM

    On Site: Barre for mental health

    Join Kristina Pelletier, certified Barre instructor, as she guides you through each invigorating session. Barre is a graceful and effective [...]

    Institute of Living - Clarke Social Room
  • Free
    Thursday, Sep 18, 2025, 10:15AM - 10:45AM

    On Site: Yoga for Mental Health

    Join Andrew Carazza, certified yoga instructor, as he guides you through each mindful session. Yoga is a gentle and restorative practice [...]

    Hartford Hospital - Institute of Living - Commons Bldg
  • Free
    Tuesday, Oct 07, 2025, 6:30PM - 7:30PM

    Webinar: Chronic Conditions that Cause Low Back Pain

    Join us to learn about chronic conditions that cause low back pain. Join board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. [...]

    MidState Medical Center
  • Free
    Thursday, Oct 09, 2025, 5:30PM - 7:00PM

    Webinar: Get relief from neck pain

    We invite you to attend a free presentation on Neck Pain, led by Dr. Karan Patel, distinguished orthopedic spine surgeon.

    Dr. [...]

    Windham Hospital
  • Free
    Thursday, Oct 09, 2025, 5:30PM - 6:30PM

    Webinar: Let's talk about fixing your back pain

    Join us for a FREE webinar to learn more about fixing your back pain. Board certified orthopedic spine surgeon and Director of Orthopaedic [...]

    Hartford Hospital
  • Free
    Thursday, Oct 09, 2025, 5:30PM - 7:00PM

    On Site: Get relief from neck pain

    We invite you to attend a free presentation on Neck Pain, led by Dr. Karan Patel, distinguished orthopedic spine surgeon. Dr. Patel is a [...]

    Windham Hospital - Bernard-Desrosier Rooms
  • Free
    Tuesday, Oct 14, 2025, 6:30PM - 7:30PM

    Webinar: Surgical options for back pain

    Join us to learn about spinal discomfort and symptoms and when it's time to see a specialist. Join fellowship-trained and board-certified [...]

    Hospital of Central Connecticut

Ayer Neuroscience Institute