Programs
WEEKLY PROCESS GROUP
Healing happens in community. In individual therapy work, we have often wished we could help clients get the support and community that would be so valuable in healing. This group is an opportunity to receive support and connect with others, as well as a way to receive weekly therapy.
The group is currently being offered virtually on a weekly basis and is being offered to current clients of Bloom Healing.
Cost is $25.00 per week, billed monthly in advance.
JOIN INTEREST LIST
THERAPEUTIC WRITING CLASS
STARTS MAY 4, 2023
Join host Andrea Parks as she hosts a therapeutic writing group, with the aim of helping members foster insight and self-awareness as well as to generate support from others through the process of writing. The writing process allows unknown or repressed material to emerge into the conscious mind. That is why we begin the writing periods with journaling prompts, which serve as a tool to prod the unconscious. This process is further supported by the technique of stream-of-consciousness writing, which serves to circumvent our natural tendency to censor our thoughts and feelings. Engaging with oneself on the page in this way can help bring about new insights and meaning–old stories are often told in new ways.
WHY JOIN A THERAPEUTIC WRITING GROUP?
We live in a culture that has very few tools for processing and integrating the complexities of the human experience. Francis Weller, who is an author, therapist and expert on soul work says: “It is our unexpressed sorrow, the congested stories of loss, that, when left, unattended, block our access to the soul. To be able to freely move in and out of the souls, inner Chambers, we must first clear the way.” Therapeutic writing, especially done in a safe group format gives us a way to clear and heal all the sorrow and stories that block our access to the soul.
WHAT IS THE THERAPEUTIC WRITING GROUP ENVIRONMENT?
The therapeutic writing group environment, protected by principles of confidentiality and non-judgement, creates a uniquely safe space for vulnerable, hidden/edited material to find expression. We will begin each session by dismissing the inner critic – which often prevents free expression, creativity and the joy and release that therapeutic writing can give us. Paying attention to what the writing reveals and then further validating and processing it within the group has a powerfully beneficial therapeutic effect. An added benefit of group therapy is that people can discover that there is a universal quality to our most vulnerable and private perceptions and impulses. This insight can reduce a sense of isolation, shame, anxiety, and depression; it fosters a deeper sense of connection with others as well as, ultimately, with oneself. While encouraged, sharing your writing with the group is completely voluntary.
DO I NEED EXPERIENCE AS A WRITER/CREATIVE WRITER?
No experience needed. The idea is to use writing as a tool to facilitate self-awareness, it’s not intended to be performative. The group avoids critique and pays no attention to grammar, spelling or structure. In fact, the intention is to leave all that behind.
HOW DO I KNOW THAT THE THERAPEUTIC WRITING GROUP IS RIGHT FOR ME?
The group is suitable for individuals who wish to know themselves more deeply through the process of writing therapeutically. In order to determine whether the group is an appropriate fit I welcome any questions. Feel free to reach out with any questions you still have.
WHOLEHEARTED RELATIONSHIPS GROUP
NEXT GROUP STARTS SOON!
The Wholehearted Relationships Group, hosted by Andrea Parks, incorporates a mix of connection, support, and sharing from other group members along with teaching each week on concepts valuable to healing our relationships. It is for individuals who are wanting to work on themselves and grow personally. With over 14 years experience working with individuals and groups, Andrea has found that romantic connections are just one of the relationships that need healing. This group also will be useful for understanding and improving relationships with parents, children, co-workers, etc.
Topics covered include:
- Roles we play in relationships
- Drama triangle
- Enmeshment
- Three pillars of healthy relationships
- Creating and maintaining boundaries
- Influence of nervous system and inner child
- Much, much more
Handouts will be provided and there will be “assignments” to practice skills and topics taught. We will allow space in the sessions to share experiences with each other, which is an important part of the interactive group experience.
Cost for the 8-week course is $400.00 per participant. If you are interested in attending the group, click JOIN INTEREST LIST and complete the form. For more details, send us an email.
Why did you decide to start this group?
After a decade of sitting with people in the most tender and vulnerable parts of their lives, I have noticed patterns that seem to be universal. Many of us know what we want in our relationships, but are not exactly sure how to get it. This group is a result of many years of me thinking, “I wish there was one place where all of this healing and these tools could be accessed.”
How do groups compare to individual therapy? What can I expect in the group setting?
I love doing individual therapy, but the most incredible growth happens in a community – with fellow travelers who are also looking for healing. You can expect to be pushed and to meet really incredible people who will help you along the way. You will also gain tools to connect more deeply with yourself and those in your life.