2016 has arrived, and it's hard to believe that we're now in the second half of the second decade of the 21st century. As a late baby boomer born in the 60s, I always wondered what life in the 21st century might look like, and life in 2016 is truly beyond my imagination. As we get older, life takes on surprising twists and turns as we all continue to ride the waves of life, and I'm so grateful for the relationships surrounding me.

Recently, I welcomed a talented new associate named Melissa Lee Garner, M.A. who has arrived in the practice to join my other recent addition, Andrew Oldershaw, M.A. Although we all miss Jenny Williams, MSW who moved back to New York at the end of October, Melissa and Andrew bring brand-new energy, passion and enthusiasm to the practice. As always, I feel so fortunate to have my associates around to keep me on my toes.

Introducing Melissa Garner Lee, M.A.

I'm very pleased to formally introduce my new associate, Melissa Garner Lee, M.A., the most recent addition to the practice. In addition to her graduate work at Pepperdine, Melissa brings a tremendous amount of life experience to her clients including seventeen years living abroad in England. Her passion for Mindfulness is infused into all of Melissa's work, and she is now fully-immersed in the EMDR training process.

Read more . . .

A Mindful-Mess
by Melissa Garner Lee, M.A.

You might say I'm terrified to speak publicly, but this would be an understatement. I've learned from past experience not to label the situation terrifying—so let's just say I find it challenging and uncomfortable. But, alas, it's a new year and I'm turning over the proverbial new leaf.

On February 5th I'm leading a workshop entitled Blame It on the NeoCortex*: How Mindfulness Heals Trauma hosted by Pepperdine University in West L.A. (http://www.themindfulhearthealingcenter.com/). I am determined to find a mindful way through my own un-comfortable state. To prepare myself, I intend to meditate at least half an hour a day until the workshop date.

Read more . . .

Blame it on the Neo-Cortex:
How Mindfulness Heals Trauma

A workshop presented by Melissa Garner Lee, M.A.
Friday February 5th, 2016, 11:30am-1:30pm
Pepperdine University, West L.A. campus

All of our clients have survived trauma—whether it was the bully on the playground or the effects of a recent accident. As clinicians, understanding the neuroscience behind trauma while utilizing effective clinical skills helps our clients move forward with their lives. This workshop provides practical mindfulness techniques that alleviates the suffering associated with trauma as clients learn to feel more like themselves again.

Andrew Oldershaw's Prism Project

In addition to a growing practice, Andrew Oldershaw, M.A. devotes additional time and energy to an incredibly valuable community resource. As the founder and principal of The Prism Institute, Andrew formed a partnership with colleague Linda Reeves, M.A. The Prism Institute's primary purpose is to provide trainings related to the LGBT experience in a variety of environments tailored to unique audiences. For more information about The Prism Institute, please email Andrew@Prism.lgbt or visit their website at www.prism.lgbt.

Upcoming Presentations
(Andrew Susskind)

Group Psychotherapy Association of Los Angeles
(www.gpala.org)
Principles of Group Psychotherapy:
A 2-Day Course on the Practice of Group Psychotherapy
Venice, CA
Saturday, January 30 and Sunday, January 31, 2016

Center for Healthy Sex Monthly Webinar Series
(www.centerforhealthysex.com/)
From Now On: Seven Keys to Purposeful Recovery
Friday, February 12, 2016

Group Psychotherapy Association of Los Angeles
Seven Keys to Purposeful Recovery:
The Intersection between Positive Psychology and Second-Stage Recovery
Santa Monica, CA
Sunday, March 13, 2016

SAVE THE DATE:
Group Psychotherapy Association
of Los Angeles
Annual 2-Day Conference:
Friday May 13 - Saturday May 14

The Power of Shame in Group Psychotherapy
Stewart Aledort, MD, CGP, FAGPA

Dr. Aledort is coming to the West Coast which is a rare opportunity to see this very seasoned, intuitive and provocative approach to conceptualizing and leading psychotherapy groups. If you're interested in considering a brand-new lens for experiencing group work, this is the conference for you.

If you prefer not to receive future mailings, simply unsubscribe below. I wish you a very healthy, happy and mindful New Year.

Warmly,

Andrew

Winter 2016

In This Issue:

• Introducing Melissa Garner Lee, M.A.
• A Mindful-Mess
  
• Blame it on the Neo-Cortex
• Andrew Oldershaw's Prism Project
  
• Upcoming Presentations
  

Order Andrew’s Workbook:
From Now On:
Seven Keys to Purposeful Recovery