Supporting youth to better cope with emotions
For young people, learning how to understand and manage distressing emotions is a skill that can make a difference well beyond the teenage years.
That’s the focus of a new partnership between Ehrlo Counselling Services and the Family Treatment Program, which are joining together to offer youth an opportunity to strengthen their mental health and their emotional literacy and psychological flexibility through the creative process.
This eight-week art and emotional wellness group will be available to youth ages 12 to 17 and will provide a supportive space for participants to learn, practice, and develop strategies they can use when navigating challenging emotions and situations.
|
Week # |
Topic and themes |
Activity |
Material(s) |
|
1 |
Introduction/Self Expression/Identity |
Emotion masks |
Acrylic paint on masks |
|
2 |
Acceptance of uncomfortable emotions |
Misery monster sculpture |
Air dry clay sculpture |
|
3 |
Defusion*(ACT) from thoughts/awareness of thought patterns |
Mind machine drawing |
Drawing materials |
|
4 |
Introduction to internal parts * (IFS) for improved self-esteem |
Parts of me collage |
2D and 3D collage materials |
|
5 |
Emotional expression utilizing art and music |
Soundtrack of feeling album cover |
Acrylic paint on vintage CD cases |
|
6 |
Subjective emotional experience |
Emotion bracelets |
Beads and elastic bracelet cord |
|
7 |
Somatic awareness of embodied emotions |
Body map |
Large roll-style craft paper and paint markers |
|
8 |
Wrap-up/ Moving forward with intention |
Polymer clay keychains |
Polymer clay and key rings |
The group will be facilitated by Ashley Lapointe, certified counsellor, and Sasha Miller, family therapist.
“Bringing together the expertise and resources of Ehrlo Counselling Services and the Family Treatment Program gives us a powerful opportunity to reach youth in the community and provide support early,” said Natashia Schoenroth, director of Ehrlo Counselling.
Group space will be limited and will run weekly on Wednesday afternoons, 3:45-5:15 p.m., beginning on October 14 and ending on December 9(**no group on November 11), at 2221 – 4th floor Cornwall Street, Regina. The cost is $500 per participant.
Registration
The cost is $500 per participant. Payment is required in advance through Ehrlo Counselling Services, and payment will not be reimbursed for missed sessions. Please contact Ehrlo Counselling Services at 306-751-2467 or ECS.Inquiries@ranchehrlo.ca for registration and payment information.