It's all about Connection.

We invite you to read responses from past IGT attendees, their parents, and educators about the IGT experience.  We welcome your questions as well as suggestions to help improve our services for teens.  We thank you for visiting our website and look forward to meeting you in person.

Be Exactly Who You Are.

No judgment. Come As You Are.
You Belong Here. Girls develop the confidence they need to have integrity and a sense of self that is not determined by the judgments of others.
 

Authentic Relationships

Speak Your Truth. 
An experience rooted in trust and love where teens make real, honest, and valuable friendships with so many different people. Girls are able to let their guard down, relax, laugh, and learn about themselves. 

It's a Girl Thing! expressive arts support group was born out of countless hours with individual patients---all teen girls---in overwhelming emotional debt of connection.  These were teens longing for acceptance, belonging, safety, encouragement, respect, self-respect, confidence, support, guidance, a sense of purpose, and the belief that it will all be ok.  These were girls who often felt lonely in overcrowded school hallways, and alone in their feelings.  These were girls who were fearful of judgement of other girls, struggled with healthy peer relationships and felt misunderstood by adults. And these were girls dealing with the stress of adolescence in the absolute best way they knew how, even though some of their strategies were dishonoring or self-harming.  In 2000, I convinced eight of these teens to gather together and actually consider exposing some of their vulnerabilities with each other, forming the very first IGT group.  Clinically, I knew that group therapy was (and still is) the #1 most effective form of treatment for teens. But more so, I knew that this experience for these eight courageous girls would far exceed a “clinical” benefit.

Thoughtfully and carefully creating a sacred space where girls were free to come as they are. Taking our time and sharing only what one feels comfortable with.  Honoring and celebrating our similarities and respecting our differences.  Recognizing that we all have something to offer, and something to learn, from each individual.  And in time, trusting that we as a group were “big enough” to hold the space for any and all feelings.  What transpired from that group was both sacred and magical, tender and loving.  What they were able to share with each other offered comfort and healing. What an honor it is, to join girls at this very vulnerable and critical time in their lives.  I think we underestimate our youth.  When teens are given the support and opportunity to rise to the occasion, I am always impressed.  And forever grateful.

Today, It’s a Girl Thing! offers 16 groups each week, open to participants between the ages of 10-25 in two locations.  Since 2000, IGT has empowered over 1800 teens in the Hudson Valley region to move forward in their lives with increased confidence and strength.