CBS Profile Segment about Improv Therapy Group
Bring Applied Improvisation To Your Facility
Improv is an interactive way to achieve neuroplasticity (changing the brain).
Neural pathways in the brain are like footprints in snow. When we walk the same path in the snow, we deepen and solidify the path. When humans do the same action repeatedly we create a neural pathway in the brain, and the more we do that action, the more we deepen our neural pathways. Taking the same path every time gets easier and easier. Starting a new path is harder; in the snow and in our brains.
When it comes to someone with social anxiety, for example, there is path in the brain for social situations that has the body responding with symptoms of anxiety. It is the same way with addictions; pathways in the brain seek a substance over and over again.
Neuroplasticity is changing those paths, and improv is a fun way to create new neural pathways in a safe environment.
Improv is NOT about practicing or giving attention to the addiction, mood disorder, or trauma. It is about playfully training our brains to use the same skills found in healthy coping mechanisms.
Just by doing something new, that in itself changes the brain. We get to experience emotions, stay in the moment, and embrace imperfection all while playing. All of these skills are necessary in recovery.
WE TEACH YOU HOW TO USE IMPROV
Improv Therapy For Therapists
Are you a clinician interested in bringing improv therapy to your practice?
We have a course for therapists interested in applying improv games, exercises and practices into Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Group Therapy, or Individual Therapy sessions. We welcome all levels of clinicians, including movement therapists, drama therapists, interns and clinicians that just want to come engage in some laughter and self care with people who get it.
WE FACILITATE IMPROV FOR YOUR GROUPS
Improv Therapy For Individuals
Communicating with other people can be difficult.
Whether it’s talking to strangers at a party or having an unpleasant conversation with your significant other, communication is a sometimes uncomfortable part of life. But it doesn’t have to be so hard - talking and listening are actual skills that can be improved. And improv is a great way to work through communication blocks.
With structured rules, such as “Yes, and!” and “Always make your partner look good," improvisers quickly learn how to listen and agree with their peers. Being forced to focus on your partners needs will enhance empathy and an understanding of communal trust.
These practices teach helpful communication skills for group and one-on-one settings.
We Offer Learning & Participatory Modules that help Groups, Organizations, Teams and Individuals
Programs customized from a variety of sessions, workshops and improv jams.
- MAGIC WORDS: Communication and Yes, And
- HEAL THYSELF: Stress Reduction and Self Care
- I SECOND THAT EMOTION: Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
- ON THE SPOT: Public Speaking and Performance Anxiety/Stage Fright
- REPEAL INHIBITION: Social Anxiety, Openness and Playfulness
- UNITED STATES OF MIND: Closing Cultural and Language Gaps & Building Community Relationships
- OUR STORIES OURSELVES: Creative Storytelling and Expression
- FOLLOW THE FEAR: It's OK to Fail
- PERFECT IS BORING: Embracing Imperfection
- IN THE NOW: Mindfulness and Being Present
- BRAIN YOGA: Cognitive Flexibility, Neuroplasticity and Memory