Workshops at the Village
“Don’t Tell Me to Relax!”
When: August 12 | 12:00-1:00 PM
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Cost: $20
Interested in Joining?
This workshop is open to both current Village clients and members of the community. If you are interested in learning more or registering, please contact Sarah at sarah@villagetherapy.org.
Current Village clients are encouraged to speak with their therapist to determine if the group is a good fit for their treatment goals and overall wellness journey.
About The Workshop
There is no shortage of advice when it comes to stress.
Take a deep breath. Calm down. Relax.
But for many people, especially those living with chronic stress, anxiety, overwhelm, trauma, or a constantly racing mind, it's not that simple.
Inspired by the work of Ralph De La Rosa, this workshop offers a grounded and compassionate approach to mindfulness and nervous system regulation for people whose minds don't simply "shut off." Together, we'll explore practical tools for managing stress, emotional activation, overwhelm, and self-criticism—without toxic positivity, forcing calm, or pretending difficult emotions don't exist.
Rooted in mindfulness, neuroscience, and practical application, this workshop is designed to feel approachable, relatable, and useful. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how the nervous system responds to stress and a collection of tools that can be integrated into everyday life.
Whether you're feeling stretched thin, stuck in survival mode, or simply looking for new ways to care for yourself, this workshop offers an opportunity to slow down, learn, reflect, and reconnect.
What We'll Explore
Understanding stress through the lens of the nervous system
Why "just relax" often isn't helpful
Mindfulness practices for real life
Tools for emotional regulation and self-compassion
Working with overwhelm without judgment
Creating sustainable practices that support well-being
Facilitators
Kristy Joy Weidner, LCSW, CCTP
Clinical Director | Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Kristy is a licensed therapist, mindfulness teacher, and co-owner of The Village Center for Holistic Therapy. Her work integrates trauma-informed care, mindfulness, nervous system regulation, and self-compassion to help individuals cultivate greater resilience, self-awareness, and healing.
Emily Spirk, LAPC, MSCP, M.Ed.
Licensed Associate Professional Counselor
Emily brings a thoughtful and compassionate approach to supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Her work emphasizes practical tools, self-understanding, and sustainable strategies for fostering emotional well-being.
Registration closes August 10.
A Heart-Opening Cacao Ceremony
When: Sunday, September 27 | 4:00-5:30 PM
Where: Village-Shaler Yoga Studio
Cost: FREE
Join us for a sacred and soulful Cacao Ceremony—an invitation to slow down, soften inward, and reconnect with your heart.
Gently guided by Dr. Victor Barbetti, this experience weaves together intention-setting, meditation, and the ceremonial sipping of pure, plant-based cacao. Together, we’ll create space for grounding, emotional clarity, and deeper connection within.
To complement the evening, Luka Giralico—an intuitive and gifted Tarot reader—will be offering optional mini readings for $25. You’re welcome to sign up with Luka during the ceremony. (You can explore his work on TikTok: @lukathelight777.)
Space is limited, so we encourage you to register in advance using the link above.
Come as you are, and leave feeling nourished, aligned, and gently renewed. 🌿✨