Story Group Level 1

Often when  we experience difficult moments in life we lack healthy avenues to express and process the experience. We might not have language for the powerful feelings that arise or we might be too ashamed to even bring up the experience with another or just not have safe people in our life. Whatever the reason, these experiences remain hidden in the shadows of our heart. Hidden but not silent. The hidden experiences of our heart often wield unrecognized power over us and create structures of shame and self contempt in our lives. These places of shame are painful and so we create defenses around them to protect ourselves; unfortunately, these defenses further bind us.

When we courageously choose to lower our defenses and allow access into the hidden places in our hearts; change becomes possible. Telling our stories to one another in a supportive environment brings us into contact with our unprocessed emotions. It is at this point we can finally grieve and honor our experiences.

Telling our stories also offers us a way to see ourselves more clearly. With this increased clarity we are able to understand what has gotten in the way of our ability to give and receive love. As we do the hard work of reconnecting with the hidden parts of ourselves we gain a greater capacity to participate in and create more life giving relationships. Seeing ourselves from this new perspective also helps us identify and live out our calling.  This is what we offer in our story groups!

Format:  Our time will consist of teaching, reflection exercise and group process.  Each group member will write and bring a written personal narrative to read and receive feedback during the 12 week workshop.  Each workshop is limited to 8 participants.

Topics Covered:

• Why Story? A Framework for Understanding your Past, Present and Future
• How Story Works
• How to write a story and hold others stories well
• When wholeness is shattered through abandonment, betrayal and shame
• Styles of attachment
• Uncovering the hidden messages at the heart of your story
• How you invite and participate in reenactment of your core wounds
• How to grieve your story
• Journey towards wholeness

All therapists leading Level 1 groups have advanced training in Narrative-focused Trauma Therapy from either the Allender Center in Seattle, WA. and/or The Trauma Focused Narrative Group Training with The Art of Living Counseling Center in Crystal Lake, IL.

This workshops will meet virtually or in person at the Art of Living Conference Center.  Please start by completing the application form below which is accessible through the “Apply Now” button.  It takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete the form. Once we receive your application, you will receive a notification regarding your application status.

Dates for our next Level 1 Groups. will be posted soon!

Level 1 Groups currently in session:

• New dates coming soon!
• coed, virtual
• Facilitators: Facilitator: Cyndi Mesmer, LCPC

Due to the intimate nature of this workshop, we ask that you consider the time, financial and emotional commitment when agreeing to participate in this workshop.

The cost of the 12-week workshop is $960, and payment will be required with your application.

The deposit is refundable if cancellation is given in writing two weeks prior to the workshop. Should you have any questions feel free to contact Cyndi at artofliving2@me.com.