REWIRING THE STRESSED BRAIN FROM THE BOTTOM UP
FRIDAY, AUGUST 26TH
Experiential training for new therapists who want to enhance their ability to help their anxious and stressed clients.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24TH
Experiential workshop for women to connect with others while learning new ways to prevent and manage anxiety and stress.
REGISTRATION: erin@foundations4change.com or www.foundations4change.com
Early Bird by August 5th: $285 (includes lunch and all materials)
After August 5th: $355
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE
Our day will start with a light breakfast then an icebreaker to begin connecting with the other participants. Susan Clifton, LCSW-S will share the roots of anxiety & stress from a neurobiological view highlighting the threat response and ways to calm the limbic system through stimulation of the vagus nerve.
Next, Fernanda Santiago, CAT, LMBT will teach the group the science and practical application of aromatherapy to reduce emotional distress. She is a wealth of knowledge so bring your questions! All will leave with their own custom blended inhaler.
After our luncheon, Erin Bircher, LCMHC, LCAS will guide the group to explore the toll perfectionism takes on our emotional health using the ancient art of Kintsugi. The experience encourages us to embrace the beauty of imperfection. You will take home your creation to remind you of the perfectly imperfect self.
During the small group break-out, Beth Gaughan, CZT will get you hooked on an amazing technique proven to reduce anxiety, relieve stress and increase self-confidence. Since 2005, Zentangle has been the go-to art to calm the nerves.
Stacy Blankenship, LCSW will lead the group in a form of mindfulness called Forest Bathing around Sky Pond’s beautiful land. After, the group will learn the Emotional Freedom Technique known as “tapping” which is a proven & portable calming technique.
WORKSHOP FACILITATORS
Erin Bircher, LCMHC, LCAS
In addition, to holding dual licenses in mental health counseling and clinical addictions specialist, Erin is a personal & professional development coach and business owner of Foundation 4 Change. In her 15 years of counseling she has been honored on numerous occasions including the Cary Magazines’ The Maggie Award for Best Therapist in Westerm Wake for 3 years in a row, a Best Therapist finalist and Best Couples Therapist in INDY WEEK’s Best of the Triangle for 2020 and has achieved Cary Living’s Diamond Award for Best Therapist in Western Wake in 2021 and 2022.
Susan Clifton, LCSW-S
Susan opened her private practice, Living Arts, after serving in a variety of mental health roles, both as a clinician and in clinical leadership, in her 30 years since graduating with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. She is thrilled to now have the creative freedom to provide experiences for other therapists, and women in the community, to foster wellness and living life to the fullest. In collaboration with others, she strives to “build community one group at a time.”
Fernanda Santiago, CAT, LMBT
Fernanda is a Level 2 NAHA Certified Professional Aromatherapist and licensed massage therapist. She has specialized in aromatherapy for 16 years receiving training in Chiang Mai, Thailand, mentoring by acupuncture physicians and botanists, plus studing with both Floracopeia and The School of Aromatic Studies. At her private practice, Healing Feels Good®, she provides consultation and a variety of treatments. She is also the co-founder of Apex Retreat Seminars where she provides ongoing training to wellness professionals.
Stacy Blankenship, LCSW
Stacy is dedicated to supporting people on the road to becoming their best selves. Her passion to empower others is enhanced by her intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion Therapy and empowerment trainings, in addition to her 10 years of clinical experience. She earned her double major in Psychology and Art and Design at Peace College for the purpose of adding art into therapeutic interventions. She proceeded to complete a Master’s in Social Work at NCSU where she currently works supporting students in need. In addition, Stacy runs a DBT group at Living Arts.
Beth Gaughan, CZT
Beth is a Certified Zentangle Teacher, receiving her certification in Rhode Island at CZT38, taught by the founders of Zentangle, Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas. Beth, now retired from her position as a risk management consultant, tangles daily. She regularly provides in-person Zentangle classes for groups and individuals in southern Wake County.
Beautiful Apex location in relaxing, wooded retreat center.
