The Web: Weaving Psychology and Soul in Circle

The web is a timeless symbol of interconnectedness and coherence. Unique to its creative weaver, each strand and spiral builds upon the last to strengthen the whole, expand it’s reach, and widen it’s range for opportunity. On The Web podcast, we weave a network of planetary healers by bringing together some of the most inspiring minds dedicated to the collective healing journey. In each episode, we explore different aspects of the art of group and Circle facilitation, share stories, and offer guidance on spinning a web of connection within your groups.

Patterns That Keep Us Small: And the Path to Stepping In 05/12/2025

My Personal Journey with Group Work 04/17/2025

Field Awareness: Exploring Transference and Countertransference with Craig Heacock 03/13/2025

The Web: Weaving Psychology and Soul in Circle 03/11/2025

Men’s Growth, Gestalt and the Call to Deep Relationship with Duey Freeman 03/11/2025

The Wisdom of the Wild: Healing Through Animal Connection with Koelle Simpson 03/11/2025

IFS Informed Psychotherapy Groups with Annie Weiss 03/11/2025

From Heartbreak to Wholeness with Sara Avant Stover 03/11/2025

3 Keys to Working with Group Dynamics with Dr. Kylin Lee 03/11/2025

Peer Support Groups: Connecting Through Lived Experience with Silen Wellington 03/11/2025

IFS Healing Circles with Chris Burris 03/11/2025

Sacred Dream Circles: Bridging the Unconscious and Conscious with Tess Castleman 03/11/2025

Lessons Learned Facilitating Retreats 03/11/2025

The Enneagram and Group Facilitation with Whitney Owens 03/11/2025

Decrease Burnout and Turnover in your Group Practice 03/11/2025

Decrease Burnout and Turnover in your Group Practice In this episode, host Carrie Haynes interviews Shannon Heers, a group practice owner, experienced therapist, clinical supervisor, and the founder of Firelight Supervision. Shannon is also the owner of Catalyst Counseling, a group practice located in Colorado. She is passionate about burnout prevention in the counseling field and has a wealth of experience in facilitating groups. The Power of Groups: Shannon shares her journey of discovering the transformative power of group therapy. She recalls a time when she facilitated a group of women who felt isolated and overwhelmed. The group provided a space for these women to connect, share their experiences, and find support. This group has been running for over three years, showcasing the lasting impact and need for such therapeutic spaces. "The power of the group was amazing... I've been facilitating that group for over three years now." - Shannon Heers Catalyst Counseling - A Model Group Practice: Shannon's group practice, Catalyst Counseling, is a testament to the effectiveness of group therapy. The practice has six therapists, many of whom are clinical supervisors. Shannon emphasizes a collaborative approach, mirroring the dynamics of group therapy in her leadership style. She believes in the power of groups not just as a therapeutic tool but also as a business model that can lead to sustainable growth and profitability. "I think the way that I manage and lead my group practice is very similar to how I like to do group therapy. It's very collaborative." - Shannon Heers Overcoming Barriers to Group Therapy: One of the challenges in promoting group therapy is the preconceived notion some therapists have about its effectiveness. Shannon discusses the need for proper training and support to help therapists see the "magic" of group work. She emphasizes that once therapists experience the benefits of group therapy firsthand, they often become its strongest advocates. "Group work is so very, such a very different way that people heal, you know, in coordination with other people, in connection with other people." - Shannon Heers Tips/Action Steps for Decreasing Therapist Burnout: Invest in Clinical Support: One of the primary reasons for clinician turnover is burnout, which can be attributed to a lack of clinical support. Ensuring that therapists receive the necessary clinical support can prevent burnout and increase their longevity in the practice. "Burnout for sure is one of the top reasons. Um, not and if you look at burnout, one of the things that contributes to that is not getting the clinical support that people need." - Shannon Heers Diversify Work Schedule: Diversifying the work schedule and incorporating group therapy sessions can help therapists maintain their energy and passion for their work. It provides an alternative to individual sessions and can be more engaging for some therapists. "How professional development, how diversity in your work schedule, how connection with others through offering groups or collaborative projects, all support your work and also support your energy for this work that can sometimes be lonely and depleting." - Carrie Haynes Seek Consultation and Continuous Learning: Therapists love to discuss their cases and learn new areas of clinical interest. Providing them with opportunities for consultation and continuous learning can keep them engaged and passionate about their work. "Therapists love to talk about their cases. They love to, um, consult with other people and to continue to learn and to learn new areas of, um, Of clinical interest and to develop those areas of clinical interest." - Shannon Heers Identify and Address the Needs: Before implementing any new strategy or therapy modality, it's essential to identify the needs within the practice or community. If there's a genuine need for group therapy or any other service, then it's worth investing in it wholeheartedly. "I always like to look at what's the need first. Is there a need within your practice or within the community for groups? And if so, you know, go for it." - Shannon Heers Separate Roles as Practice Owner and Clinical Supervisor: To avoid conflicts of interest and ensure that the best decisions are made for both the practice and the individual therapists, it's beneficial to separate the roles of a practice owner and a clinical supervisor. "I really separated my role as a practice owner versus my role as a clinical supervisor, because that is one of the dual roles that practice group practice owners come into contact with a lot." - Shannon Heers Harness the Power of Group Therapy In this enlightening episode, Shannon Heers shares her insights into the transformative power of group therapy, both as a therapeutic tool and a sustainable business model. Through proper training, support, and a collaborative approach, therapists can harness the potential of group therapy to benefit their clients and grow their practices. Links and Resources The Art of Groups - Group program training starting in November 2023 - Podcast Production and Show Notes by /episode/index/show/artofgroups/id/28114043

3 Keys to Creating a Thriving Groups Culture 03/11/2025

3 Keys to Creating a Thriving Groups Culture Welcome to another insightful episode with Carrie Haynes on the Art of Groups podcast, where we delve deeper into the intricacies of group therapy. In this episode, Carrie generously shares her extensive knowledge and passion for group therapy, highlighting the transformative power it holds in fostering deep connections and promoting healing within communities. Drawing from her rich experience and inspired by the works of the legendary group psychotherapist Irvin Yalom, Carrie unveils three pivotal keys to cultivating a thriving group culture in any practice. Whether you're a seasoned group therapist or contemplating adding this modality to your practice, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical tips that are bound to resonate with you. Correcting the Myths and Misperceptions The number one reason clients don’t participate in groups is the beliefs of the therapists. “There was a well-controlled study and it was in an article called Getting the Most from Groups in College Counseling Centers. And, they did a study on clients and asked them their Intention to follow up with a group intake, and when clients believed or strongly believed that the intake counselor thought group was the best option, 64 percent planned to follow up. When the clients believe the intake counselor was neutral about the group, 30 percent plan to follow up.” Believing group therapy is a lesser form of therapy group therapy potentially hinders its effectiveness and adoption in practice. Correcting the misunderstandings about this includes addressing common misconceptions about group work and encouraging more therapists to understand and appreciate the unique benefits that group therapy can offer. Providing Training and Support Carrie stresses the importance of offering training and support to group therapists, noting that a lack of proper guidance can actually diminish a therapist's skills over time. She cites a study by Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychiatrist and writer, to underline the need for adequate training in group therapy; untrained therapists were found to be less skilled at the end of their sessions compared to when they started. Consequently, this could have a negative impact on clients in these groups. Carrie emphasizes the necessity of continuous learning and support to foster a nurturing environment, allowing for therapeutic breakthroughs and beneficial outcomes for clients. Offering Acknowledgement and Rewards The third key is about acknowledging and rewarding therapists for their efforts in undertaking something new and stepping out of their comfort zones, which typically lean towards individual therapy. Carrie encourages practices to offer acknowledgments, incentives, and benefits to therapists who facilitate group sessions, creating an environment that fosters creativity and reduces burnout. This not only potentially leads to a financial benefit for the therapists but also enhances connection and cohesion amongst staff, fostering a sense of community and collaboration, which in turn, benefits the clients as well. She points out that the rewards don't always have to be monetary; even verbal acknowledgments can make a significant difference. As we wrap up this empowering episode, it's clear that fostering a thriving group culture goes beyond just facilitating sessions; it's about creating a nurturing, supportive, and enriching environment where both therapists and clients can thrive. Carrie asks us to reflect on the transformative potential of group therapy and encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and explore the rich, connective experiences it can offer. By implementing these keys, practices can stand out by offering comprehensive training, fostering collaboration, and nurturing a culture of acknowledgment and rewards. Links and resources The Art of Groups - Group program training starting in November 2023 - Podcast Production and Show Notes by /episode/index/show/artofgroups/id/28012260

The Transformative Power of the We Space 03/11/2025

The Transformative Power of the We Space Introduction to the Episode In this episode, Carrie Haynes engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Gibran Rivera about the "We Space" – a concept that highlights the transformational potential of group dynamics and collective consciousness. Gibran, an experienced facilitator, coach, and guide, shares his insights on how group interactions can bring about personal growth, healing, and positive change in the world. Exploring the We Space Carrie and Gibran dive into the concept of the "We Space," which refers to the unique energy and connection that arises when individuals come together in groups. Gibran emphasizes the importance of the "We Space" in facilitating healing and evolution. He explains, "The group is necessary for the practice." Being part of a supportive community helps individuals overcome past traumas and contribute positively to the world. Gibran's Insight: "I think the group is necessary for the practice. I think it's perfectly fine, not necessary even for you to have space where you are held individually, but they're gonna be attention and care is on you." Stages of Healing and Personal Growth The conversation shifts to discuss the stages of healing and personal growth within group settings. Carrie and Gibran agree that individual healing is vital before one can contribute positively to others and the planet. Gibran likens the journey to a spectrum, ranging from deep trauma to awakened consciousness. He explains, "At zero, you are totally traumatized. At 100, you are so awake that people wake up in your very presence." The goal, he suggests, is to reach 51%, where self-sovereignty and healing allow us to serve the collective better. "At zero. You are totally traumatized... What we wanna get to is 51%, meaning enough of the care, enough of the healing." Balancing Role and Authenticity in Group Facilitation The conversation concludes with a discussion about the role of a facilitator in group dynamics. Gibran shares his experiences and insights about holding space and navigating challenges that may arise, such as when someone's past traumas hijack the group process. He emphasizes the importance of role clarity and authenticity, noting, "The success of an intervention is directly proportional to the interior condition of the intervener." Key Takeaways for Listeners: The Power of Group Energy: The "We Space" holds transformational potential, fostering healing and personal growth within supportive group dynamics. Healing and Contribution: Individual healing is a stepping stone to contributing positively to the collective and addressing existential challenges. Balancing Roles: Facilitators play a crucial role in group processes, balancing authenticity and holding space for individuals' growth and healing. Gibran Rivera's insightful perspectives shed light on how the "We Space" can bring about powerful transformations, enabling individuals to heal, evolve, and create positive change together. Links and Resources Learn more about Gibran Rivera Psychedelic Ceremony & The Art of Groups - Podcast Production and Show Notes by C /episode/index/show/artofgroups/id/27792216

Healing in Community: Psychedelics and Group Work with Dori Lewis, MA, LPC, LMHC 03/11/2025

Healing in Community: Psychedelics and Group Work with Dori Lewis, MA, LPC, LMHC Welcome to the Art of Groups podcast, where you'll learn to create, promote, and facilitate transformational groups. In this episode, host Carrie Haynes, a licensed professional counselor and group facilitator, sits down with Dori Lewis, a licensed professional counselor and licensed mental health counselor, to discuss the power of psychedelics and group work in the healing process. Dori Lewis's Journey into Group Work Dori Lewis is a licensed professional counselor and licensed mental health counselor with a wealth of experience in facilitating groups. She started her group private practice, Reflective Healing LLC, in Fort Collins about three years ago after realizing the need for more support in her community. Dori shares her background in sex therapy and her work in women's circles, focusing on female sexuality through psycho-spiritual readings and meditations. She is also trained as a shamanic journey practitioner and has extensive experience in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and other psychedelic modalities. Dori's passion for helping individuals access their unique offerings in the psychedelic space led her to co-found Elemental Psychedelics, where she offers intimate training programs. The Role of Experience and Self-Reflection in Psychedelic Work When asked about the most important qualities for practitioners in holding space for psychedelic experiences, Dori emphasizes her personal experience and discoveries. Her own extensive experiences with various psychedelics over two decades have become invaluable in supporting others in their journeys. Dori also stresses the importance of ongoing therapy, shadow work, and parts work to cultivate humility and self-awareness. Recognizing and addressing one's own unconscious impulses and seeking consultation when needed is vital for ethical practice. Dori encourages aspiring practitioners to continue their own experiences with psychedelics while receiving mentorship and supervision to enhance their skills. Contrasting Individual and Group Psychedelic Work Dori differentiates between individual and group psychedelic work, particularly with ketamine. While she organizes ketamine women's circles for therapists who have undergone a screening process, she advises caution when bringing together individuals from the community for group psychedelic experiences. Amplifying group dynamics and the potential for unaddressed trauma to surface make careful screening essential. Dori prefers participants to have prior experience with psychedelics, a history of therapy, and an understanding of their trauma backgrounds to ensure safety. Unraveling trauma in a group setting without proper support can be challenging, requiring individual attention and care. The Power of Individual and Group Experiences Dori emphasizes the significance of individual work before transitioning to group experiences. She states, "I like to do one-to-one initial experiences for people to work through their personal stuff. At some point, when somebody has a good sense of the medicine and their own consciousness, bringing them into a group space is perfect." The individual work allows individuals to address their personal issues, gain tools, and become comfortable with the medicine. Once they have a strong foundation, group work becomes a supportive and cost-effective option to continue their healing journey. Individual work provides an opportunity for individuals to focus on their personal challenges and work through heavier, stickier issues. It allows them to develop tools, grounding techniques, and integration skills necessary for their healing journey. Group work offers a unique sense of community and connection that is often lacking in today's virtual and isolated world. Dori highlights the importance of shared experiences, stating, "People really want to be connected and be in community... and that creates camaraderie." Group settings provide an opportunity for participants to connect, share their journeys, and find support among peers. The Continuum of Healing and Integration Dori emphasizes that the healing path is a continuous journey rather than a one-time event. She says, "When you start doing psychedelics, you're on the medicine path. It's not a one-time thing." While high-dose psilocybin sessions can be impactful, she believes that continued engagement with the medicine allows for deeper layers of healing and personal growth. Integration, the process of incorporating insights and experiences from psychedelic journeys into daily life, is a vital aspect of the healing process. Dori explains that integration takes time and requires ongoing support. Group work provides a safe container where participants can share their integration struggles, learn from each other, and receive continued support throughout their journey. Through group work, lifelong connections can be forged. Dori shares her personal experiences of meeting lifelong friends and spiritual supports through women's circles and ayahuasca ceremonies. These connections provide a space for expansive conversations and a level of understanding that may be difficult to find elsewhere. Balancing Structure and Process in Group Work Dori discusses the importance of maintaining a balance between structure and process in group work. She acknowledges her own limitations as a group therapist and explains her preference for tight containers to minimize process dynamics that may arise. By implementing clear activities and boundaries, she creates a space that allows for personal sharing while minimizing potential harm. Having structured activities and guidelines in group work ensures that participants feel safe and supported. Clear boundaries prevent the emergence of complex group dynamics that can be challenging to navigate without specialized training. Dori's focus on structure helps maintain a grounded and secure environment. Dori emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's limitations and seeking supervision or consultation. Engaging in ongoing training and consultation helps therapists and facilitators develop the necessary skills to hold safe and effective group spaces. It also allows for reflection, growth, and the ability to learn from mistakes. Honoring Authenticity and Addressing Cultural Appropriation Dori addresses the issue of cultural appropriation in psychedelic work and the importance of authenticity in rituals and ceremonies. She encourages individuals to draw from their own practices and inner guidance, rather than adopting practices from other cultures without understanding their significance. Cultural appropriation, she explains, involves taking practices from marginalized cultures without proper understanding or reciprocity. Dori emphasizes the importance of personal rituals and ceremonies that are rooted in individual practices and beliefs. These practices should align with one's inner truth and connection to nature, spirit guides, or power animals. By focusing on personal rituals, individuals can avoid appropriating practices that don't resonate with their own cultural heritage. Dori invites individuals to slow down and explore their own grief and hunger for ritual and ceremony. Rather than rushing to fill this void by appropriating practices from other cultures, she encourages individuals to explore their own cultural roots and traditions. Grief itself can become a part of ritual and ceremony, offering a unique and meaningful healing experience. A Transformative and Communal Journey Healing through psychedelics and group work offers a transformative and communal journey. The combination of individual and group experiences provides an effective and holistic approach to healing. It allows individuals to work through personal issues, gain tools and insights, and cultivate lifelong connections within a supportive community. By maintaining a balance between structure and process, therapists and facilitators can create safe spaces for participants to heal and grow. Furthermore, honoring authenticity and avoiding cultural appropriation ensure that rituals and ceremonies are meaningful and respectful. Slowing down, recognizing limitations, and seeking supervision or consultation is essential for ethical and effective practice. Key Takeaways Experience and self-reflection are crucial: Personal experiences with psychedelics and ongoing therapy provide valuable insights and self-awareness for practitioners. Engage in ongoing supervision and mentorship: Seek consultation and mentorship from experienced professionals while simultaneously practicing psychedelic work to enhance skills and ensure ethical practice. Screening and individual support: When facilitating group psychedelic experiences, prioritize a rigorous screening process to ensure participants' safety and well-being, especially concerning trauma histories. Continued personal growth: Embrace shadow work, parts work, and ongoing therapy to deepen self-awareness and humility as a practitioner. Stay informed about upcoming training opportunities, such as Elemental Psychedelics' training programs, to deepen your knowledge and practice in the field of psychedelic group work. Links and Resources Psychedelic Ceremony & The Art of Groups - /episode/index/show/artofgroups/id/27660750