Over 170 people showed up for the first class called When Harm Happens. Chrissie Steyn, Pastoral Care Associate, received some incredible feedback from several participants, one particularly saying “Just experienced my first 2nd conversion tonight at Willow’s Trauma Class. No words.” Several counselors and social workers are referring people as well. Here’s some additional info about the class:
When Harm Happens: Understanding the Impact of Trauma on Our Lives
7–9 p.m., Wednesdays, March 13 and 20
Room: Blue Sky 1 (No registration required. Spanish interpretation available.)
Ever find yourself reacting to something a little more strongly than might be appropriate? Or repeating a detrimental pattern in your life? Or experiencing deep sadness with no discernible cause?
“There’s likely a good explanation,” says Chrissie Steyn, LCPC, who leads When Harm Happens, a class that explores how painful events from the past affect our lives and relationships today. “Many of us have experienced some sort of trauma that, understandably, has followed us into today; something that was significant and harmful emotionally, relationally, spiritually, or physically—like being bullied as a kid, witnessing a traumatic event, experiencing domestic violence, or being raised in an alcoholic home. Unacknowledged, trauma wreaks havoc in our lives. The good news is, the past doesn’t need to chase us. We can overcome our lingering effects to past harm.”
The class offers personal stories and practical teaching from professional counselors, video stories from Willow staff and volunteers, and hands-on next steps for further exploration.
“You can’t change what happened to you, but you can change your future,” Chrissie says. The information is enlightening, and you will find you are not alone.”
