This space is for BIPOC folk, specifically geared to survivors of genocide and colonization. This includes the children, grandchildren, and great grand children who have also endured intergenerational and ancestral trauma.
*this is NOT a psychotherapy group. Though it will be co facilitated by LCSW & MSW healing artists. We will use expressive arts and alternative healing modalities that are evidence-based.*
This group runs for 75 minutes and slides from $25-$50 per group.
*Given the political climate, I want to ensure affordability and accessibility to Arab Immigrants and those most intimately impacted by Palestinian Occupation. Please consider your financial ability and personal healing needs, as this group is offered twice a year.*
Description:
Join our 8-week Ancestral Healing Group designed to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore and address ancestral trauma. This group will meet for 75 min each week and will incorporate various therapeutic modalities, including expressive arts, Reiki, and play interventions, to promote healing and integration.
Each session will begin with an emotional check-in, allowing participants to share their feelings and experiences in a non-judgmental environment. This will be followed by an expressive arts or play intervention, where participants will engage in creative activities such as visual arts, movement, music, or storytelling to explore and express their emotions and experiences related to ancestral trauma. These activities are aimed at providing both verbal and non-verbal outlets for processing difficult emotions and experiences, allowing for deep exploration and expression in a safe and supportive environment. Finally, the group will close with an integration period, where participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and discuss insights gained during the session.
The group will be facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker with expertise in trauma-informed care and expressive arts therapy. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and to gain support and insights from the group process. Together, we will create a nurturing community where healing and growth can take place.
Why Expressive Arts and Play are Healing for Ancestral Trauma:
Numerous studies and experts in the field of psychology and trauma therapy have highlighted the healing potential of expressive arts and play interventions for addressing ancestral trauma. According to the American Psychological Association, expressive arts therapy has been shown to be effective in helping individuals process and integrate traumatic experiences, including those passed down through generations. The use of creative expression can provide a safe and non-verbal outlet for exploring complex emotions and experiences, allowing for a deeper understanding and release of trauma-related emotions.
Furthermore, the National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine (NICABM) has highlighted the role of play and creative expression in rewiring the brain and promoting healing from intergenerational trauma. Engaging in creative activities can activate the brain's reward systems, reduce stress, and promote the release of neurotransmitters associated with healing and resilience.
By incorporating expressive arts and play interventions into our Ancestral Healing Support Group, we aim to provide participants with a holistic and effective approach to processing and healing from ancestral trauma. Through creative expression and connection with others, participants can begin to unravel the impact of intergenerational trauma and embark on a journey of healing and transformation.
