Hello everyone,
As we step into June, we are excited to celebrate Pride Month! This month is dedicated to honoring and recognizing the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating diversity, and advocating for equality and inclusion. It’s a time to reflect on the progress we've made and the work that still needs to be done to ensure everyone can live authentically and without fear.
We are also thrilled to share that Dr. Gretchen is deepening her knowledge and expertise by learning more about providing Ethical Mental Health Services to Gender Variant Clients. This commitment ensures that we offer the most supportive and informed care possible for all members of our community.
In line with this commitment, we are highlighting Arlene Istar Lev’s 2004 Transgender Emergence Model, which outlines the stages many transgender individuals may experience:
Awareness
Seeking Information/Reaching Out
Disclosure to Significant Others
Exploration: Identity and Self-Labeling
Exploration: Transition Issues/Possible Body Modification
Integration: Acceptance and Post-Transition Issues
Understanding and applying this model helps us provide more compassionate and effective support.
Honored Recognition
I am incredibly honored and humbled to announce that I have been awarded an honorary place in the San Diego Business Journal as a Leader in Mental Health. This recognition means a lot to me, and I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me on this journey. I do all that I do from my heart, and it's effortless because of the passion I have for this work.
Exciting Opportunity
I am excited to share that I have been offered a position as a mentee at the next Somatic IFS (Internal Family Systems) retreat in Costa Rica. I am thrilled to be part of the staff for this retreat and to deepen my understanding of how somatic processing can benefit all my clients. This opportunity will allow me to bring even more effective and holistic approaches to our practice.
Successful First Yoga Hike
Our first Yoga Hike was an incredible success! Hiking up Black Mountain was challenging, but the reward at the top was well worth it. Practicing yoga amongst the trees was a truly healing and relaxing experience. We appreciate everyone who joined us and made this event so special.
Upcoming Yoga Hike on June 22nd
We're excited to announce another Yoga Hike in July, this time in celebration of Father's Day. We invite all fathers and families to join us for this special event. To sign up, text "Go Dad" to (858) 533-1450. The cost is $30 per person. Let’s make this Father's Day memorable with a blend of adventure and relaxation.
Yin 7 Series: Therapeutic Yoga
Our Yin 7 series is in full swing and is gaining popularity. This series is designed to help you unwind and find balance through gentle, prolonged poses that target the deeper connective tissues. If you haven’t joined us yet, it’s not too late to experience the tranquility and benefits of Yin yoga. The upcoming “Somatic Awareness Series” will start on June 25th at 2 pm. To sign up text “Yes to Yoga” at 858-533-1450. Price $140.
Special Recognition
I would like to take a moment to recognize Faith, my amazing assistant. Faith's hard work and dedication make my job so much better, and I am incredibly grateful for her support. Thank you, Faith, for all that you do!
Thank you to everyone for your continued support and participation in our events and classes. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming Yoga Hike and in our ongoing classes.
Warm regards,
Gretchen
And Remember
"I want to make a difference in people’s lives!
I work to ensure everyone has an
equal opportunity to succeed."
-- Gretchen Pound, PhD