F.A.Q.S

  • I love groups! While Soul Strength groups are NOT group therapy, it is worth noting that group therapy has been shown to be as clinically effective as individual counseling, while being more time and cost effective. We’ve taken that knowledge, and transformed our offerings into something more casual, accessible, and dare I say… FUN. Our group setting is unique in that it allows for a more integrative experience, which is what Soul Strength VT is all about. While some group offerings might look more like traditional support groups, others are more highly focused on movement, skills, or other specific health topics.

    • While the hope is to provide a wide array of integrative groups, many of our groups focus on movement. We know that in general, movement (and other healthy behaviors) can be quite effective for combatting stress, low mood states and anxiety, among other mental health challenges. We’re taking that idea one step further and implementing therapeutic practices directly into movement groups. With movement can come clarity, creativity, insight, self-awareness and motivation. And did we mention the self-esteem boost? There are so many benefits to attending to the physical along with the mental.

  • There are SO many mechanisms at play, but here are just a few-

    • Because our brains and bodies are directly connected and function as one, the physical benefits (hormone regulation, reduction of inflammation, improved heart rate, etc.) are also important to our psychological health

    • The sense of mastery associated with movement often translates to improvements in self-esteem, self-efficacy, and overall strengthens one’s sense of self. (Learn how strong you actually are!)

    • Community support and energy from fellow group members often lead to greater sense of wellbeing

    Moreover SS groups are specifically designed with the following in mind-

    • Movement provides a great outlet for mindfulness, a main brain/body practice at SS VT

    • Movement (and the music!) give us an expressive outlet for eliciting, noticing, and releasing challenging thoughts and feelings.

    • Breathwork, which is an integral part of class, is key to eliciting the “relaxation response”, supporting a more regulated nervous system.

    • Indoor cycling adds the element of pedaling on the bike. Steady state, rhythmic movements such as pedaling have been shown to help regulate our nervous systems.

    Interested in learning more about these connections? This guide explains more of the “why” when it comes to the benefits of exercise on mental and physical wellbeing.

  • No! …Well, only if you want to! Some groups may have a prompt or two to get us going, while other groups might have more opportunities to connect. Just check out the group description to see what you might expect. In general, folks can share if they’d like, or remain as they are, take it all in. Completely up to you, but remember, movement groups are a terrific way to form connections!

  • No! Although Kate is a licensed mental health provider and all SS services are designed to be stress relieving, they are not considered psychotherapy or treatment. Groups are kept intentionally light, casual and approachable. They were designed simply for folks who need an outlet to manage stress, move their bodies, and generally feel well (AKA- everyone!).

    • Anyone and everyone whose goals include feeling well mentally and physically

    • Anyone looking to gain skills to better manage stress while improving mental and physical health