New Roots Program

8 Week program for youth ages 13-15 who are self-motivated to participate in a supportive group counselling environment to take charge of the way anxiety and worry is impacting their lives.

New Roots is a nature-based wellness program for youth who want to transform their relationship with anxiety and worry within a safe and supportive group of peers. This program aims to foster a connection to nature, self and others, and nurture a sense of belonging. 

Our facilitation style encourages stepping into challenges while being supported and held; at the same time, we honour everyone’s autonomy and choice. We will also bring a playful approach to this group to help participants be more comfortable in their authentic expression. Often, anxiety can prevent people from bringing their whole selves or trying something new; within our connected group container, participants will be supported to meet their growth edges, explore new and empowering vocabularies of nature connection, and to deepen into a sense of belonging in community. 

Held within the beautiful spring setting of Government House Gardens, youth can expect to try a variety of activities such as: yoga, body mapping, expressive arts play (improv, clay sculpting, collaging), journalling, nature sit spots, environmental restoration, sharing tea, embodiment, and authentic ways of relating. 

Session dates:

1. April 9 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
2. April 16 (3:30pm-5:30pm) 
3. April 23 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
4. April 30 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
5. May 7 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
6. May 14 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
7. May 21 (3:30pm-5:30pm)
8. May 28 (3:30pm-5:30pm)

Parent Sessions: Tuesdays April 29 and May 20, 6-8pm @ Government House Gardens.

Location: Government House Gardens

Cost: FREE!

This program is graciously sponsored by the CRD, Victoria Family Court & Youth Justice committee.

Facilitators: Jessica Neary (RCC) and Hannah Souter (MA candidate)

Parent/guardian support evenings:

We are excited to be able to offer 2 evening sessions for parents/guardians to gather together in community to learn strategies for best supporting their youth as they navigate through life. We value a family systems approach to well-being, where parents/guardians are learning the same tools as their youth, and can be on the same page in tackling stress and anxiety (which us adults often experience too). Each session will be tailored to the needs of that group of parents, and will present on topics such as understanding anxiety and how it impacts our nervous system; the avoidance cycle; strategies for connecting with your youth, and helping them take charge of anxiety. Our request is that at least one parent/guardian are able to attend these sessions, but more are welcome and encouraged.

Session dates: Tuesdays April 29 and May 20, 6-8pm @ Government House Gardens.

For more information, please contact Zahura, [email protected]

• People of all genders, sexualities, bodies, ancestries, cultures, and abilities are welcome. Maximum of 12 participants.

If you want to contribute to keeping New Roots accessible to all, donate here.