Being immersed in my practicum at a ketamine-assisted therapy clinic has been one of the most interesting and growth-inducing experiences I have had in a while. I am being enriched as a student of therapy in regard to treatment modalities, being surrounded by a team of professionals working together to formulate treatment plans and facilitate individual and group programs and learning about the structure of a medical model business as a non-profit organization. I am also meeting more parts of myself that arise as I feel the subtle restraints as a student, restraints of a business functioning within a capitalistic society, and the restraints of the mental health field that is housed within a generally unwell system and culture.
Leaning into these tension points has been fruitful in many ways. I feel even more attuned to who I want to be as a clinical social worker, what kind of environment I want to work in and the people I want to work alongside. I feel more clarity in my vision regarding what is sustainably supportive and what is a “band-aid” fix. I feel more inspired and hopeful that regardless of what we are up against, there are so many creative and empowered people out there that are willing and able to be “cycle breakers” (an ode to a client I worked with today who lit up talking about this subject).
The funny thing about a vision and about clarity is that it is generally a right-brain mode of processing, and that does not come with fixed step by step how-to’s. It’s more of a gut feeling, a guiding light, and a fire that burns with passion and motivation. It requires practice, humility to continue learning and seeing from more perspectives. Trying things on and being ready to pivot and piece things together as they are happening. Making some plans, of course, and taking some risks to create structure and a container that can then be explored and played within. But we can’t get too far ahead of ourselves, as so much learning happens with each step and we need some flexibility to utilize what we learn.
I love transitions, the space between things, and for that reason, the equinox and solstice times of year are potent windows that I enjoy lavishing within. The days leading up to these points are times of deep reflection and creativity. And the day of is filled with intentional activities, unstructured play time, and sacred turning inwards. One thing I continue to feel inspired by and called to curate are gatherings where we can engage in ritual, learn and experience nervous system regulatory practices together, and choose to show up with and for each other in our common humanity. As I have been contemplating this upcoming winter solstice, I have decided to offer an online gathering in the morning for those who would like to meet for some guidance to meet this solstice with intention. To explore through movement, senses, breath, and visualization to celebrate the passing of another year and craft an intentional opening for the year ahead.
This will be an interactive experience within the constraints of a zoom room, as I invite you to feel into your individual sensations, thoughts, visuals and movements, and share with words or gestures to keep a sense of connection with the group as our collective experience takes shape. I am passionate about experimenting with ways that we can honor and fully embody our self as individuals while also opening up and honoring the very real collective and communal experience that is integral to who we are as well.
As investment for this gathering, I have a few options:
$25 for a single registration
$30 for you + a friend (or as a pay it forward donation for someone else to attend)
I truly don’t want money to ever be a reason why someone cannot participate in a gathering that is intended for community, health and well-being. So, as one of my inspiring fellow U of C classmates once said: “if money is not your jam, just let me know.”
When: Saturday December 21, 10-1130am
I have some reflection questions to share once you have confirmed your registration. An invitation to sit with these questions and allow the energy of your pondering and curiosity begin to polish your psyche in preparation for the solstice.
Please note: The gathering will be recorded so you can enjoy the experience again, or for those who register and are unable to attend live.
Please reach out with questions or to confirm you partipation. For those sending etransfers, also send to this email.
marinmccue@gmail.com
I look forward to gathering with you.