Join us for a transformative day of connection, learning, and healing at the Group Therapy & Support Circle Mental Health Festival 2025. This community-focused event brings together mental health professionals, advocates, and individuals seeking support in a welcoming environment designed to break down stigma and build meaningful connections.

Event Overview

The Mental Health Festival offers a full day of interactive workshops, expert panels, support circles, and wellness activities designed to promote mental wellbeing and community connection. Through a combination of professional guidance and peer support, participants will gain practical tools for managing mental health challenges while connecting with others on similar journeys.

Date: May 15, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Community Wellness Center, 123 Main Street

Festival Highlights:

• Interactive group therapy demonstrations

• Specialized support circles for various mental health concerns

• Expert-led workshops on evidence-based coping strategies

• Community resource fair featuring local support organizations

• Mindfulness and wellness activities throughout the day

• Networking opportunities with mental health professionals

What You'll Learn

Participants will leave the festival with tangible skills and resources to support their mental health journey:

• Evidence-based coping strategies for managing anxiety, depression, and stress

• Communication techniques for expressing needs and boundaries in relationships

• Community resources available for ongoing support and treatment

• Mindfulness practices that can be incorporated into daily routines

• Peer support approaches for building resilience through connection

• Self-advocacy skills for navigating the healthcare system

• Crisis management tools for difficult moments

• Digital mental health resources that complement traditional therapy

Who Should Attend?

The festival welcomes anyone interested in mental health, personal growth, and community support:

• Individuals currently experiencing mental health challenges

• Family members and supporters of people with mental health conditions

• Mental health professionals seeking community connections and continued learning

• Community advocates and peer support specialists

• Healthcare providers interested in holistic approaches to mental wellbeing

• Students in psychology, social work, and related fields

• Workplace wellness coordinators and HR professionals

• Anyone curious about group therapy and support circle approaches

No prior experience with therapy or support groups is necessary – we welcome participants at all stages of their mental health journey.

Presenters & Hosts

Our festival features a diverse group of mental health experts, advocates, and experienced facilitators:

Keynote Speakers

Dr. Maya Johnson, PhD
Clinical Psychologist, Author of "Healing in Community"
Dr. Johnson specializes in group therapeutic approaches and will share insights from her 20 years of experience facilitating healing spaces for diverse communities.

Sam Rivera, LCSW
Trauma Specialist & Community Mental Health Advocate
Sam brings expertise in trauma-informed care and creating accessible mental health resources in underserved communities.

Workshop Facilitators

Dr. Thomas Chen, PsyD
Specialist in CBT Group Approaches
Leading workshops on cognitive-behavioral techniques in group settings.

Leila Patel, LMFT
Family Systems Therapist
Facilitating sessions on healing family dynamics through systemic approaches.

Marcus Williams
Peer Support Specialist & Recovery Advocate
Sharing lived experience and peer support methodologies.

Dr. Sarah Goldstein, MD
Psychiatrist & Integrative Medicine Practitioner
Presenting on the intersection of medication management and holistic wellness.

Support Circle Hosts

• Grief & Loss Circle – Facilitated by Elena Rodriguez, LCSW

• LGBTQ+ Support Space – Facilitated by Jamal Washington, LPC

• Chronic Illness & Mental Health – Facilitated by Dr. Rebecca Lee, PhD

• Parents & Caregivers Circle – Facilitated by Michael Stevens, LMFT

• Young Adults (18-25) Connection Space – Facilitated by Taylor Kim, LCSW

• BIPOC Healing Circle – Facilitated by Dr. James Wilson, PsyD