Crossing the Threshold: Working with Ritual in Groups

Signe Porteshawver

I know, I know: group therapy is often about putting experience into words. But there is another terrain of transformation when we put symbols into action.

Ritual is woven into healing across cultures and traditions—and it’s already happening in our groups. The formation of the circle. Someone leaving. The door closing at the beginning of the hour. Even paying.

What could happen if we brought more intentionality to these thresholds?

In this conversation, we’ll explore the possibilities—and the risks—of working with ritual in groups. How is ritual different from a group activity? What can ritual make possible that talking can't? What are the ethical landmines when bringing in the spiritual? And how do we invite symbol and ceremony without imposing our own meanings onto the group?

To fuel our dialogue, we’ll experiment with a few small rituals together. Bring your experience, your reservations, your curiosity!

About the Presenter

Signe cut her teeth in group ritual facilitation through a decade-long apprenticeship with Animas Valley Institute, where she guides 5-12 day wilderness programs for people in dark nights of the soul. Ceremony is also a key part of her one-on-one psychotherapy practice, which focuses on existential crisis and people whose lives or bodies have stopped cooperating with the plan. The photoshoot for her practice website was a ceremony made public.

In person event. Location given at registration.

Charge: There is no charge for this event.