Visual and performing arts have been used for hundreds of years to dramatize and explain the human experience. And in this tradition, cinema therapy uses the themes and narratives in film as a vehicle to reflect on our own lives. Together, we work to conceptualize and create change in ourselves.
What is it? The group will meet to discuss and process the themes and characters in a film we have watched the previous week. At the same time, we will work through a workbook that we will use to build skills to manage our emotional lives.
What will we do? Participants will learn a method for watching movies with a set intention and evaluate the drama and characters with the skills learned in the weekly group sessions. Participants will learn the six core "pivots" of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
How will it help me? The skills learned in group will increase psychological flexibility and cultivate an increased ability to experience difficult emotions. We will then apply these skills to the characters we watch in the films each week and try to see ourselves and our own struggles in the characters. In addition, the group will discuss more existential themes as they come up. The goal of the group will be to equip participants with the skills to recognize and understand their emotions and then know what to do with them as they arise moment to moment, in their everyday lives. How will we access the movies? All movies will be accessible through Amazon Prime or other online movie rental streaming services. You are welcome to access them anyway that is most convenient for you.
When we will meet? We will meet weekly on Sunday mornings at 11:00am-12:30pm Next Group begins January 17, 2021
Who is the group NOT FOR? This group would not be appropriate for someone who is very depressed, suicidal or anxious and not in treatment with another therapist. If you would like to attend the group and you are not in treatment with another therapist I can help you find a therapist.
Where we will meet? We will meet virtually until the COVID19 pandemic is under control. We will use Google Meet. When the pandemic is no longer a threat, we will meet in a group meeting room at my office on Clairmont Ave in Decatur, GA.
What will it cost? $50.00 per session.
Who will facilitate? Leigh Swanson, Licensed Professional Counselor