Resilient Counselors Mastery Series | Indraloka Animal Sanctuary

Program Overview

The Resilient Counselors Mastery Series is designed to empower mental health professionals impacted by the current mental health crisis and related challenges. This comprehensive program blends onsite retreats, virtual sessions, and holistic healing practices to build resilience, foster well-being, and enhance leadership skills among participants.

Measurable Objectives

Measurable objectives are crucial for assessing the success and impact of the program. We propose that these include:

1. Increase Knowledge and Understanding of Trauma-Informed Practices and Their Relationship to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

  • Objective: By the end of the series, 90% of participants will demonstrate increased knowledge of trauma-informed practices and their relationship to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as measured by pre- and post-program assessments.
  • Measurement: Pre- and post-assessment scores

2. Enhance Resilience and Compassion Endurance

  • Objective: 85% of participants will report an improvement in their resilience and coping skills by the end of the series.
  • Measurement: Participant self-assessment surveys conducted at the beginning, midpoint, and end of the program.

3. Improve Self-Care Practices Among Guidance Counselors

  • Objective: 80% of participants will incorporate at least three new self-care practices into their routine by the end of the series.
  • Measurement: Self-reported surveys and follow-up questionnaires.

4. Implement Trauma-Informed Strategies in Schools

  • Objective: 70% of participants will implement at least two new trauma-informed strategies in their school settings within three months of completing the program.
  • Measurement: Follow-up surveys.

5. Enhance Emotional Well-Being

  • Objective: 85% of participants will report an improvement in their emotional well-being by the end of the series.
  • Measurement: Pre- and post-program surveys.

Program Structure

Empowerment Launch Retreat (5 hours)

Objectives:

  • Establish a supportive community among participants.
  • Introduce trauma-informed care principles and resilience-building techniques.
  • Engage in restorative activities and commit to self-care practices.

Activities:

1. Welcome and Program Introduction

  • Overview of program goals, schedule, and participant introductions.
  • Icebreaker activities with mini goats to build rapport and trust.

2. Animal Interaction and Nature Connection

  • Guided tour of the sanctuary and introduction to rescued farm animals.
  • Mindful journaling and interactive activities promoting empathy and relaxation.

3. Holistic Wellness 

  • Trauma-sensitive yoga OR Qigong led by certified instructors.

4. Lunch Break

  •  Healthy, catered lunch with opportunities for informal networking.

5. Guided Meditation and Nature Walk

  • Seated guided meditation flowing into a meditation walk.
  • Emphasis on mindfulness, stress reduction, and nature connection.

6. Learning Activity and Group Discussion

  • Interactive workshop on trauma-informed practices and resilience strategies, drawing on lessons from the animals
  • Group reflections and goal setting.

Weekly Virtual Sessions (1 hour each)

Objectives:

  • Build on retreat concepts regarding trauma-informed school cultures and integrate them into daily practice.
  • Provide ongoing support, resources, and peer collaboration.
  • Develop and commit to self care itineraries.

Session Topics:

1. Understanding Trauma and Building Resilience

  • Introduction to trauma science, secondary trauma, and resilience-building techniques.
  • Discussion of how DEIB interrelates with trauma and resilience.
  • Practical exercises and group discussions on applying resilience strategies.

*Note: the level of information provided here will be customized based on the group’s pre-existing knowledge of the subject.

2. Self-Care and Professional Well-Being

  • Importance of self-care for counselors’ mental health and job satisfaction.
  • Burnout recognition – Coping – Self Care – Compassion Endurance
  • Development of personalized self-care itineraries and commitment strategies.

3. Implementing Trauma-Informed Practices

  • Strategies for integrating trauma-informed approaches into school settings.
  • Exploration of how these can also build resilience and a culture of inclusion and belonging.
  • Case studies, role-playing, and peer feedback on effective implementation.

4. Building a Supportive Community

  • Techniques for fostering a supportive and inclusive school culture.
  • Networking opportunities, peer support strategies, and final reflections.

Empowerment Celebration Retreat (5 hours)

Objectives:

  • Reflect on personal and professional growth throughout the series.
  • Reinforce connections made and celebrate achievements.
  • Plan for ongoing resilience-building and community support.

Activities:

1. Welcome and Reflection

  • Group reflection on transformative experiences and individual growth stories.
  • Sharing of achievements and challenges overcome.

2. Individual chair massages by a licensed therapist (rotational sessions throughout the day).

3. Animal Interaction and Nature Immersion

  • Time with rescued farm animals and nature-based relaxation activities.
  • Emphasis on grounding, gratitude, and connection.
  • Revisiting mindfulness journals

4. Holistic Wellness 

  • Trauma-sensitive yoga or Qigong practice.
  • Integration of movement, breathwork, and mindfulness techniques.

5. Lunch and Informal Networking

  •  Catered picnic lunch with opportunities for networking and peer support.

6. Guided Bird Watching Walk

  •    Mindful bird watching walk to deepen nature connection and mindfulness practice.
  •    Reflection on the healing power of nature and personal growth.

7. Celebration and Closing Ceremony

  • Group activity to celebrate program completion and participant achievements.
  • Distribution of certificates of completion and final words of encouragement.

Optional Personal Retreat at the Sanctuary

Description:

The Optional Personal Retreat offers a unique and tranquil escape, designed to provide participants with solitary, unstructured time to unwind and reconnect with themselves in the serene setting of our sanctuary. Midway through the series, participants will be welcomed to indulge in a day of peaceful reflection and self-care (pre-registration and clearances required).

Imagine strolling through lush, green spaces, with the gentle sounds of nature all around you. Take a leisurely nature walk along our scenic nature trail, breathe in the fresh air, and let your senses come alive. Bring along a yoga mat for a rejuvenating self-led practice amidst the beauty of our natural surroundings, or perhaps a journal to capture your thoughts and inspirations as they flow. If you play an acoustic musical instrument, feel free to bring it and let the soothing melodies blend with the tranquil ambiance of the sanctuary.

We will provide a delightful picnic lunch, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal in the company of nature. Additionally, participants can enjoy the sanctuary’s peaceful environment, offering a perfect setting for meditation or quiet reflection. This is your time to pause, reflect, and restore your inner peace, all within a safe and supportive environment.

Objectives:

  • Provide a serene space for individual reflection and relaxation
  • Encourage personal self-care and mindfulness practices
  • Offer a break from daily stressors to promote mental and emotional well-being

This optional retreat is a wonderful opportunity for participants to fully embrace the sanctuary’s healing energy, find solace in nature, and experience a profound sense of rejuvenation. It’s a day dedicated to nurturing your spirit and enhancing your overall well-being.

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