In group therapy sessions we will address themes that are specific to the members, using the group as a source of support while creating a safe and containing place to develop resources and learn more about how we impact and are impacted by others.
The therapy group becomes a type of social microcosm, where members of the group come to represent the various types of people or relationships in your life and the boundaries in place allow group members to explore different patterns of relating without fear of judgement, while having the added benefit of feedback from the other group members.
Members of the group take on many different and ever-shifting roles – witness, protector, mirror, leader, support, instigator, peacemaker, or cheerleader, to name a few. As the group forms an identity, members begin to trust the safety of the group and feel more at ease taking risks, whether that means sharing something vulnerable, trying out a new style of relating, or bringing more of themselves to the group space.
In DMP group sessions, we will often begin with a verbal/movement check-in, followed by a group warm-up, movement exploration around specific themes (individually, in pairs, or as a group), verbal reflection, and a group ending. Some things you might find in a DMP therapy group include: creative movement, the use of props to facilitate movement experiences, vocalizing, mirroring explorations to foster empathy, the use of music or rhythmical group dances, and group discussions. To learn more about DMP group work, check out this blog post.
The group program will be constantly developing to meet the needs and interest of the community. I am currently offering:
*Group offerings are currently on hold due to COVID-19. I aim to offer groups again in the New Year if it is safe enough to do so.
Weekly DMP process groups take place in 12 week terms on Friday evenings. These groups offer a safe space where you can bring your strength, vulnerability, hopes, and needs, and deepen your relationship with yourself and others in an embodied and creative way. Using dance as a medium for self-discovery, the process groups are a place to explore your personal growth, receive support, and access your creative impulses towards healing. The groups will provide a space to connect, reflect, and find acceptance, wherever you are in your journey.
Groups take place at Toronto Yoga Co (1768 Danforth Ave) from 7:30 to 9:30pm.
The cost for the groups will be $480* for 12 sessions. Membership will be closed (no new members once the term starts) and there will be a maximum of 8 people per group. These groups are for adults ages 20 and up.
*There will be two partially subsidized spaces available for each group. Please get in touch if you would like to participate and would otherwise be unable to afford the cost of enrolment.
Images by Zurry Donevan.
Moving Together 