Phoenix Rising: Models of Grief, Growth, and Action

“The Egyptian phoenix was said to be as large as an eagle, with brilliant scarlet and gold plumage and a melodious cry… As its end approached, the phoenix fashioned a nest of aromatic boughs and spices, set it on fire, and was consumed in the flames. From the pyre miraculously sprang a new phoenix.”

—Encyclopedia Britannica

In conjunction with Reimagine’s Fall 2021 season “Grief, Growth, and Action”, Phoenix Rising explores opportunities to emerge from the ashes and transform from the source of our loss. Guest speakers from diverse fields such as psychology, art, and activism will address the scientific phenomenon of trauma-related growth in conversations and workshops. The series will shed light on how some people can actually flourish through and from a difficult experience. Perhaps our transformations won’t be as dramatic as the death and rebirth of the mythical phoenix, but we all have the capacity to take small, sweet steps towards growth and action.

This session features clinical psychologist Dr. Arielle Schwartz who will provide audiences with foundational principles of post-traumatic growth and lead participants in a workshop intended to heal trauma, foster resilience, and awaken potential. Rooted in Dr. Schwartz’s research compiled in The Post Traumatic Growth Guidebook, this workshop invites everyone to see themselves as heroes or heroines of their own life journeys. Interactive activities such as journaling and self-reflection will guide participants beyond the pain of the past and help them discover a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

Dr. Arielle Schwartz

Dr. Arielle Schwartz is a licensed clinical psychologist, EMDR Therapy consultant, somatic psychotherapist, certified yoga instructor, and internationally sought-out teacher. She is the author of five books, including The Complex PTSD Workbook and The Post Traumatic Growth Guidebook as well as the Trauma Recovery audio program with Sounds True. She is a leading voice in the treatment of PTSD through her integrative, mind-body approach to therapy. She is dedicated to offering informational mental health and wellness updates through her writing, public speaking, social media presence, and blog. She believes that the journey of trauma recovery is an awakening of the spiritual heart. Discover more at drarielleschwartz.com.