For women looking to grow, expand and heal in their relationships. This group will explore here and now, relational concerns and desires as they arise in real time with others in the group. Connection and application made to life outside of the group.
Emptiness
LaTasha Smith
Therapy is successful when one feels heard, understood, and accepted. Regardless of circumstances, my priority is to help you feel comfortable enough to explore unfamiliar territory. My role is simply to guide you towards asking the hard questions, in becoming curious about your life and encourage you to explore new behaviors and ways of thinking. You and I will address your most immediate and important concerns, while also paying attention to underlying issues and reworking old behavioral patterns and ways of living that you feel are no longer helpful to you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received a Master of Social Work degree from Loyola University Chicago and a PhD from Smith College School for Social Work. My experience is based on of post graduate training, professional experience and lived experience. My work has involved working with trauma survivors of all ages, as well as the conditions that are most commonly associated such as eating disorders, self injury, behavioral addictions (shopping, emotional eating, gaming etc.) and depression.
My mission is to help those who have experienced trauma rebuild from brokenness, thereby creating more meaningful lives and relationships. Although trauma is commonly associated with life threatening events, I use a broader definition in my work. I believe that any experience that has a negative impact and interferes with healthy functioning, can be traumatic. I am honored to walk alongside you in this journey.
Teen Empowerment Group
For teens who are survivors of violence, sexual abuse, neglect, bullying, school or community violence, parental substance abuse, who have witnessed violence in their home, or have experienced any other child maltreatment.
This group focuses on self-esteem building, healthy relationships, gaining a sense of community and skills for growth, and helping teens access their own strength and courage to claim a healthy and positive future.
Parents, the reality of teen trauma is painful and overwhelming. Figuring out how to begin the healing process can be confusing. You want to protect your teen and ensure their safety and happiness. When you see your child suffering, it hurts.
We understand, and we are here to help.
Any of this sound familiar in regards to your teen:
– Anxiety or worry
– Falling grades
– Persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in sleep or appetite, withdrawing from normal activities, or feeling “down”
– Changes in self-care, such as paying less attention to hygiene, appearance, or fashion than they usually do
Our Teen Empowerment Group is hands down the best way to help your teen:
– Understanding of the symptoms of trauma to support self-regulation
– Develop greater understanding of themselves and their needs in a safe and supportive community so that they can set self-directed boundaries
– Experience mindfulness-based practices to induce and deepen relaxation
– Increase self-compassion in order to reduce self-criticism and self-blame
We are here to help your teen engage in the body and mind through arts based expression in order to heal and re-connect with joy and purpose.
NEXT Step? Email our office to schedule a brief phone chat with leaders Melissa or Megan. We would be delighted to answer any questions you have about the group. We look forward to hearing from you!
Expressive arts is an evidence based practice that provides practical tools for healing and emotional growth. Some art modalities we will use include; drawing, painting, collage, mixed media and digital art or photography. No experience or skill with art making is necessary to benefit from art therapy.