Northlight Family Services Experiential Workshops help families take their change and
growth to the next level. Family members see and feel patterns as they occur. They are
guided to shift those patterns "in the moment" thus making theoretical concepts more
tangible and relevant. When family members experience this shift, hope and faith in the
family increases and change is accelerated and cemented.
We have an array of unique experiential therapy modalities including Equine-Assisted
Psychotherapy, Art Therapy, and Outdoor Experiential Therapy. In addition, we employ principles
of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy, Group Therapy,
and Family Systems Therapy.
The workshops described below are customized to each family's needs. Workshops can be
offered individually or combined as longer term "family retreats". Retreats are generally
done in Colorado at a beautiful retreat center in the mountains.
Building Awareness of Relational Patterns:
This workshop guides families in discovering functional and dysfunctional patterns of relationship
within the family system. The family is able to see, feel, and witness patterns of relationship
in the present moment. The workshop focuses on non-verbal communication and social dynamics.
Finding Inner Resource:
In this workshop, individual family members uncover obstacles to meaningful relationships and
discover more effective ways to get personal needs met. An emphasis is placed on healing old
wounds, and dealing with unfinished emotional business in the family. Additionally, family members
make agreements regarding safety, connection, and support.
Envisioning Change:
This workshop helps families imagine the future with creativity and wisdom. Each family member
builds a realistic vision of the relationships they feel are possible within the family. The family
learns techniques for conflict resolution, decision-making, accountability, and emotional
sharing.
The Life Learning Intensive:
In this workshop, students articulate social and emotional needs, physical health needs, and
educational needs. Parents respond to this and learn ways to successfully negotiate differences.
The workshop emphasizes accountability and the mechanics of building a strong support team back
home or at a follow-up placement.
