Thursday 19 June 2014

Healing Through Group Support

Healing Through Group Support
One in five people experience depression at some stage of their lives. It is one of the most common of all mental health problems. More than 15 years ago, Psychotherapist, Kari Sotamaa was in turmoil, experiencing what many of his clients experience today.

Born and raised in Finland, Kari grew up in a violent and dysfunctional family. Having a speech impediment coupled with depression was a difficult journey for Kari, but a breakthrough occurred when he took responsibility for accepting change. Through various therapies Kari was able to heal his depression.

Today, Kari helps individuals and families overcome depression through the group therapy process. He is a facilitator of a number of workshops held at the Positive Psychology Wellness Centre in Mornington. These include workshops for depression support, authentic happiness, overcoming fears and phobias, meditation and art therapy. For those suffering from depression, anxiety and chronic pain, the Depression Support workshop provides practical techniques to assist them in their journey to recovery. The workshop is also open to friends and family of those who suffer from depression as often they are also deeply affected.

Those interested in understanding the nature of happiness, and how they can achieve daily joy and lasting fulfillment, will benefit from the Authentic Happiness workshop. They will be shown techniques to help them learn forgiveness, heal their inner pain and identify their own individual strengths. They learn how to use these empowering techniques to add more meaning and purpose in their lives.

The Fears and Phobias workshop aims to assist participants to control their fears rather than allowing their fears to take control of them. Individuals are taken through a powerful process which can facilitate the healing of their emotional pain, as well as helping to discover and resolve their causes of their challenges.

Meditation workshops offer practice in a range of meditation techniques and participants have an opportunity to share their experiences with others throughout their journey.

Meditation sessions can assist individuals to feel more compassion, increase their self control, and enhance their ability to 'let go' of negative emotions.

For those looking for a creative outlet the Art Therapy workshop allows them to express themselves through the creative process. Participants can learn about themselves and how to express emotions and feelings they may be struggling with.

For further information or to secure your place please call us on 5976 8443 or email

wellnesscentre@positivepsychology.net.au

By Daniela Stansfield-Daniela is the Manager of Positive Psychology in Mornington and Oakleigh.