Groups & Workshops

"Community is like a garden; it requires nurturing, care, and collective effort to thrive and bloom." - Unknown

Let me provide a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can explore various techniques, gain insights, and develop skills to enhance their mental health and overall wellness.

Learning and Skill Development

Workshops provide a platform to learn new techniques and tools for improving mental health and well-being. Participants can acquire practical skills such as stress management, mindfulness, and self-care practices. They can also gain knowledge about different therapeutic modalities and approaches.

Personal Growth and Self-Reflection

Community workshops offer opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. Through guided activities and discussions, participants can gain deeper insights into themselves, their emotions, and thought patterns. They can explore new perspectives, learn coping strategies, and develop self-awareness.

Connection and Social Support

Engaging in workshops allows individuals to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar experiences and challenges. This sense of connection and social support can be instrumental in reducing feelings of isolation, fostering empathy, and providing a network of understanding peers.

Emotional Expression and Healing

Workshops often incorporate expressive activities like art making, movement exercises, or journaling, providing avenues for emotional expression and healing. These creative outlets allow participants to process their emotions, release pent-up feelings, and find catharsis in a supportive setting.

Yoko recently hosted an Art Therapy workshop for a BIPOC group (40 people) with social justice theme.

Here’s what some of the participants had to say:

Testimonials

“Yoko was very welcoming and supported a safe place for dialogue.”

“She protected the space keeping it safe and facilitated encouraging dialogues.”

“Yoko had good pace, organized and explained the process well.”

“The collective art representing us being connected as community members working toward a bigger goal.”

“It made me feel accepted and not alone.“

“It was a great calming way to discuss difficult topics. I felt supported through the art therapy session. It gave me more time for self-reflection of my choices in a safe space.“

“It was healing and gave us a sense of belonging.”

“Loved the experience! Not the most artistic or creative person myself but I definitely felt included! It helped me channel my inner identity. “

“10/10! I would do it again! “

“It was a powerful experience. Calming, but created un-comfortability and opened the door of emotions that weren’t fully put away. The visual of the mandala was profound.”

“It was eye-opening and liberating!”

Meet Your Group & Workshop Facilitator Yoko Gifford, RCC, CCC, Prof. Art Therapist

Yoko Gifford is a compassionate group and workshop facilitator dedicated to guiding individuals on transformative journeys. With a safe and trusting environment, Yoko honours every aspect of each participant's authentic self. As a skilled Therapist and Art Therapist, she incorporates the power of Art Therapy to enhance the workshop experience. Yoko's workshops cover a range of topics such as belonging, collective grief, self-discovery, and more. Join Yoko on this empowering path of healing and self-discovery, where you'll find a compassionate guide and a supportive community to reclaim your true essence.

Credentials:

Registered Clinical Counsellor in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (Member #17259).

Canadian Certified Counsellor in good standing with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (Member #10010828)

Professional Member in good standing with the BC Art Therapy Association (Member #0548P)

Master of Counselling in Psychology - Art Therapy, Adler University, Vancouver

Book Your Group or Workshop with Yoko Today!

Community workshops are where compassion, creativity, and connection intersect. Discover the power of Art Therapy, engage in meaningful discussions, and cultivate a supportive network of like-minded individuals.

Fill out this form to tell me more about your event and I will get back to you in 3-5 business days with next steps!