Drawing from tools from Dance Movement Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy, this workshop is designed to help us deepen our connection with our bodies and each other, and learn more about our relational patterns. Together we will explore different aspects of relating, such as entering connection, attunement, being seen, asserting boundaries, offering/receiving support, and saying goodbye.

What to expect:

-The workshop will include a check-in, movement-based warm-up, skills building for emotional regulation, creative movement exercises, and a closing circle

-All movement will be creative/improvised (I will not be teaching specific dance moves)

-We will be moving and dancing, so wear comfortable clothes

-We will also spend time in verbal reflection, feel free to bring a notebook

-We will work in partners, small groups, and as a large group (max of 20 people)

-Physical contact will be used in some exercises, but you can decline at any time if you’re not comfortable and we can find a way for you to do the exercise without contact

-This workshop draws from therapeutic modalities, but it is NOT a therapy session. Participants are expected to take responsibility for themselves and the pace of their learning within the workshop (ie. taking breaks to regulate if needed).

Who is this workshop for?

-Anyone interested in learning more about their relational patterns

-No dance experience required! All you need is a body (sorry, no ghosts allowed)

Access information:

-The space is fully wheelchair accessible

-Jessica is committed to fostering an inclusive space for a diverse range of bodies

-There are some reduced rate spots available to support financial accessibility (email movingtogetherdmp@gmail.com for a discount code if you need one). Want to sponsor an attendee? Feel free to buy two tickets and let me know that you're donating one to someone who needs it!

-Masks will not be required, but you are of course welcome to wear one. Please be considerate and do not attend if you are unwell.

About the facilitator:

Jessica Houghton is a Registered Psychotherapist, Dance Movement Psychotherapist, educator, and dance artist working in private practice in Toronto, where she offers individual and group therapy, as well as educational and personal development workshops. She completed her MA in Dance Movement Psychotherapy in the UK, where she researched the benefits of DMT for survivors of sexual trauma, and worked in adult and childhood mental health in hospital, community and school settings. Jessica's passion is to create supportive spaces where clients can access their embodied intuition and explore the richness of their internal world through creative movement. She is a firm believer in the transformative power of dance and movement, and is an active member of the Toronto dance, contact improvisation, and DMT communities.