The LGBT Equality Alliance of Chester County and and the Center for Trans and Queer Advocacy at West Chester University are organizing a day dedicated to self-care and safe spaces in response to the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, recognizing the significant impact these difficulties can have on our overall well-being.

Schedule

10 a.m. Check-in

10:20 – 10:30 a.m. Introduction and Energizer

10:30 a.m. – 11:15 p.m. Guided visualization

11:15 – 12 Small group discussion

12 – 1 p.m. Lunch

1 – 1:10 p.m. Energizer activity

1:10 – 1:50 p.m. Large group sharing

1:50 – 2 p.m. Break

2 – 2:50 p.m. Chair yoga and affirmation bracelet activity

2:50 – 3 p.m. Wrap-up

**Huggers from Free Mom Hugs and West Chester University therapy dogs will be stopping in during the day.


Facilitators

  • Katie Hynes, MS is a retired psychotherapist and ally, who has facilitated the LGBT Equality Alliance Adult Support Group since 2016. She believes strongly that people know who they are and deserve support and respect.

  • Cailey (she/her) is a dedicated advocate for mental health and suicide prevention, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. As the Education and Support Group Coordinator for NAMI Chester County PA, and a board member for the LGBT Equality Alliance, Cailey leverages her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Drexel University and her Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology and Human Services from Chestnut Hill College to support others. With a background in crisis intervention and peer support, Cailey is committed to fostering inclusive environments and providing empathetic guidance, advocating for social justice and equality in mental health care.

  • Maureen Vita holds a master's degree in Creative Arts Therapy from Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. She is a seasoned professional with a diverse range of certifications and licenses, specializing in aiding individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and traumatic memories.

    As a Board-Certified ArtTherapist (ATR-BC), Maureen employs a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing the creative process to improve mental health and well-being. Her extensive training and expertise enable her to address complex emotional issues through innovative therapeutic techniques.

    In addition to being a Pennsylvania Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Maureen is also recognized as a Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT) in New Jersey. Her commitment to ongoing education and professional development led her to become certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), further enhancing her ability to assist clients in processing traumatic experiences.

    Maureen's dedication to her field extends beyond individual therapy sessions. She has conducted numerous groups and workshops across the United States, focusing on various aspects of mental health and art therapy. Her expertise has been showcased at prestigious events such as the American Art Therapy Association (AATA) Annual Conferences, the Expressive Therapies Summit, and the Delaware Valley Art Therapy Association (DVATA) Annual Conferences, now known as PAATA.

    With a passion for helping others unlock their creative potential and heal from emotional wounds, Maureen continues to make a profound impact in the field of art therapy and mental health counseling. Her compassionate approach and unwavering commitment to her clients' well-being exemplify her dedication to her field.

  • Kristin the founder and director of Leadership & Ayurvedic Wellness. She is a natural edge-walker, masterfully integrating practices from both the scientific and spiritual worlds to inspire greatness so that we can evolve in awareness and radiance. Kristin leads our exceptional team of guides as well as workshops and special programming at the studio.

    There is space for you at Zia Yoga & Wellness. Yoga can help you dismantle stress and gain access to the experience of radical self-love in your body but it can also be intimidating, expensive, and lack accessibility and representation. Zia is an intentional and inclusive community made up of beginners, experienced students, and every body in between. www.ziayogawellness.com


This is a free event featuring group sharing, small group discussions, guided visualization, yoga, and more. Our facilitators are mental health professionals who understand what people in the queer community may be feeling because of what's happening in the world.

The event will be held at the Sykes Student Union at West Chester University on April 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include lunch.