Join us on January 11, 2024, at WOMPA (3306 Charles Page Blvd.) from 5:30 – 6:30 pm for, “I Didn’t Want To Tell You: Normalizing The Conversation Around Mental Health.” This series launches with our very own Rev. Dr. Lavanhar, who will kick off a sequence of vital conversations alongside a diverse lineup of community leaders.

Spirituality and Trauma: How Religion Harms and Heals

Led by Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, this opening conversation delves into the complexities of how religious experiences can impact mental health. He’ll explore the duality of spirituality’s role — how it can cause deep wounds through hurtful doctrines and exclusion, and conversely, how a healthy spiritual community can offer resilience, healing, and a profound sense of belonging. It’s an exploration of the delicate balance between the potentially damaging and the undeniably healing aspects of spirituality and religion.

Upcoming Sessions In The Series:

Each session is designed to bring a fresh perspective on mental health, featuring leaders with unique approaches and a proven record of supporting our community.

• February 1, 2024: “Healing Trauma Through Community” with Brad Piccolo and Amy Carlin Lee
• February 22, 2024: “From Addiction to Connection” with Katie Dale & Annie Heartfield
• March 14, 2024: “Anxiety, OCD and Art” with Sterlin Harjo, plus a special segment on “Psychedelics and Trauma” with Michael Mason

This series isn’t just about talking; it’s about connecting and healing together. With mental health professionals on-site and an “After Hour Social Club” for extended conversation, each event is an opportunity to deepen your understanding and find support within your community.

This series is a unique collaboration between WOMPA, Red Dirt Relief Fund, Low Road Merch Co., Heartfield Counseling, Heirloom Rustic Ales, TyPros, and Mood Bru, aiming to foster open, candid discussions in a safe, supportive environment. You can learn more here.