Acting to Heal is the brainchild of Dr. Genzel-Derman and actor, Liza Snyder, who has starred in several T.V. sitcoms, among them “Yes Dear,” “Jesse” and most recently “Man with a Plan.” The goal of the program is to empower and inspire teens to express themselves, manage emotions safely, and connect to others.
Liza Snyder
Group Sessions
In this 14-week group, teens between the ages of 14-17, will learn to express their emotions through drama, improv and acting. The group uses a unique combination of psycho-education, acting and mentorship. Throughout the group youth are exposed to improv, character study, role-playing, monologues and scene writing. During the course of the group, each teen has the opportunity to work with a professional actor who helps them write and perform a short scene about something in their life they are hoping to gain mastery over. The mission of the group is for youth to improve interpersonal skills, self-confidence, and to develop more adaptive means of coping.
Acting Mentor
Clients meet with a professional acting mentor 4 times during the 14-week period. Mentors discuss the ways in which they use acting to cope with difficult emotions. Mentors inspire clients to creating unique and empowering works of art to facilitate healing.
Mental Health Professionals
Two licensed psychologists will provide psychoeducation, and engage the group in therapeutic activities that will promote safety, coping, social connections and healing.