Upcoming Events
*NEW* Events Calendar!
Fall Socials
Join us on the following Fridays from 5:30-7:30pm at Strangebird to socialize, network, and connect with our organization.
- September 25, 2026
- October 23, 2026
Fall Community Consultation Groups
Connect and consult with colleagues about your clinical work, led by an RAGPS board member. Consultation groups are free to members, and require registration.
- Wednesday, October 21, 2026
- Saturday, November 21, 2026
2026 Fall Conference
Joining Psyche and Soma in Group Therapy:
The Use of Immediacy as Emotional Bridge
Chap Attwell, MD, MPH & Liz Stewart, BCSI, EIA, ESIA
The Use of Immediacy as Emotional Bridge
Chap Attwell, MD, MPH & Liz Stewart, BCSI, EIA, ESIA
Description
If 85% of communication is non-verbal and 85% of mental life is unconscious, then paying keen attention to overtly visible body language in group work can provide a bridge to decode non-verbal, unconscious communication between members in real time. Whether through strengthening attachment bonds or heightening the group’s sense of immediacy, our work attempts to construct new avenues for interpersonal connection.
Since our workshop focuses on the universal aspects of human interpersonal communication, by definition it transcends any individual's skin color or ethnicity. We seek to work with what is overtly demonstrated in the room—and therefore less prone to prejudice. While the primary focus of our outreach has been on the universality of body language across culture and ethnicity, we are aware that trauma and inter-generational trauma has often been transmitted through the body. Our focus remains on making our workshop a safe place to learn with and from each other as the non-verbal may find verbal expression. Creating a climate where participants’ non-verbal body language primes a culture of openness to healing is a wonderful place to begin.
Our workshop will correct a deficit in psychotherapy and group therapy training, which has formally neglected the ubiquity and utility of this key window of communication for decades. While an extensive literature exists on the universality of body language and a particular physical gesture or facial expressions required in order for a feeling to be expressed, less has been done at the immediate level of intervention in group therapy. Our model allows for a threefold approach which deepens along three legs: to study the overt body language of others in group; to study our own overt body language as leaders; and to explore the broader group connective tissue amongst members. In particular, we use parallels between decades of work within the field of structural integration (the manipulation of fascial planes to realign the body's relationship to gravity) and the demonstration of body language in group to learn what individuals and the group as a whole might struggle to communicate without conscious awareness. Thus the pairing of body language and somatic experience might create words which may accompany or deepen previously obscured avenues of communication. Our workshop will provide a fun, safe, and exciting experiential format which participants will remember favorably and use to take into their practice with confidence.
Workshop Learning Objectives
1. Recognize the Connection Between Body, Mind, and Communication: Notice how physical sensations, body language, attention, and words interact to shape individual experiences and shared understanding within a group.
2. Explore Connection and Emergence in Group Process: Identify how relationships and interactions among group members build connection, foster curiosity, and create new shared insights that could not emerge from individuals alone.
3. Practice a Slow, Relational, and Non-Fixing Approach: Use presence, patience, and curiosity to support group members in noticing, processing, and sharing their experiences without rushing to diagnose, correct, or resolve discomfort.
References
1. Berger, M.M. (1958). Nonverbal Communication in Group Psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 8, 161-178.
2. Matsumoto, D., Frank, M., & Hwang, H.S. (2013). Non-verbal Communication: Science and Applications. New York: Sage Publications.
3. Navarro, J. (2008). What Every Body Is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed Reading People. New York: William Morrow Paperbacks.
4. Rolf, I. (1991). Rolfing and Physical Reality. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.
5. Lesondak, D. (2017). Fascia: What is is and why it matters. East Lothian, Scotland, United Kingdom: Handspring Publishing Limited.
6. Lesondak, D. (2026). The Fascia Connection. Balance.
7. Oschman, J. (2016), Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis (second edition). Elsevier: New York.
If 85% of communication is non-verbal and 85% of mental life is unconscious, then paying keen attention to overtly visible body language in group work can provide a bridge to decode non-verbal, unconscious communication between members in real time. Whether through strengthening attachment bonds or heightening the group’s sense of immediacy, our work attempts to construct new avenues for interpersonal connection.
Since our workshop focuses on the universal aspects of human interpersonal communication, by definition it transcends any individual's skin color or ethnicity. We seek to work with what is overtly demonstrated in the room—and therefore less prone to prejudice. While the primary focus of our outreach has been on the universality of body language across culture and ethnicity, we are aware that trauma and inter-generational trauma has often been transmitted through the body. Our focus remains on making our workshop a safe place to learn with and from each other as the non-verbal may find verbal expression. Creating a climate where participants’ non-verbal body language primes a culture of openness to healing is a wonderful place to begin.
Our workshop will correct a deficit in psychotherapy and group therapy training, which has formally neglected the ubiquity and utility of this key window of communication for decades. While an extensive literature exists on the universality of body language and a particular physical gesture or facial expressions required in order for a feeling to be expressed, less has been done at the immediate level of intervention in group therapy. Our model allows for a threefold approach which deepens along three legs: to study the overt body language of others in group; to study our own overt body language as leaders; and to explore the broader group connective tissue amongst members. In particular, we use parallels between decades of work within the field of structural integration (the manipulation of fascial planes to realign the body's relationship to gravity) and the demonstration of body language in group to learn what individuals and the group as a whole might struggle to communicate without conscious awareness. Thus the pairing of body language and somatic experience might create words which may accompany or deepen previously obscured avenues of communication. Our workshop will provide a fun, safe, and exciting experiential format which participants will remember favorably and use to take into their practice with confidence.
Workshop Learning Objectives
1. Recognize the Connection Between Body, Mind, and Communication: Notice how physical sensations, body language, attention, and words interact to shape individual experiences and shared understanding within a group.
2. Explore Connection and Emergence in Group Process: Identify how relationships and interactions among group members build connection, foster curiosity, and create new shared insights that could not emerge from individuals alone.
3. Practice a Slow, Relational, and Non-Fixing Approach: Use presence, patience, and curiosity to support group members in noticing, processing, and sharing their experiences without rushing to diagnose, correct, or resolve discomfort.
References
1. Berger, M.M. (1958). Nonverbal Communication in Group Psychotherapy. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, 8, 161-178.
2. Matsumoto, D., Frank, M., & Hwang, H.S. (2013). Non-verbal Communication: Science and Applications. New York: Sage Publications.
3. Navarro, J. (2008). What Every Body Is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed Reading People. New York: William Morrow Paperbacks.
4. Rolf, I. (1991). Rolfing and Physical Reality. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press.
5. Lesondak, D. (2017). Fascia: What is is and why it matters. East Lothian, Scotland, United Kingdom: Handspring Publishing Limited.
6. Lesondak, D. (2026). The Fascia Connection. Balance.
7. Oschman, J. (2016), Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis (second edition). Elsevier: New York.
Friday November 6, 2026
- Artisan Church 1235 S Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14620
8:15 - 9:00 a.m. Registration & breakfast
9:00 - 9:15 a.m. Welcome, Announcements, & Introduction
9:15 - 10:30 a.m. Didactic Session #1
10:30 - 10:45 a.m. Morning break & snack
10:45 - 12:00 p.m. Demonstration Group #1
12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch Break
1:30 - 2:45 p.m. Didactic Session #2
2:45 - 3:00 p.m. Afternoon break
3:00 - 4:15 p.m. Demonstration Group #2
4:15 - 5:00 p.m. Reflections and Q&A
5:00 - 5:15 p.m. Evaluations & sign-out
Saturday, November 7, 2026
- 1577 South Avenue Rochester, NY
10:00am - 11:30am
A 90-minute, small group, experiential training to deepen exploration of the conference themes with our presenter.
- Artisan Church 1235 S Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14620
8:15 - 9:00 a.m. Registration & breakfast
9:00 - 9:15 a.m. Welcome, Announcements, & Introduction
9:15 - 10:30 a.m. Didactic Session #1
10:30 - 10:45 a.m. Morning break & snack
10:45 - 12:00 p.m. Demonstration Group #1
12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lunch Break
1:30 - 2:45 p.m. Didactic Session #2
2:45 - 3:00 p.m. Afternoon break
3:00 - 4:15 p.m. Demonstration Group #2
4:15 - 5:00 p.m. Reflections and Q&A
5:00 - 5:15 p.m. Evaluations & sign-out
Saturday, November 7, 2026
- 1577 South Avenue Rochester, NY
10:00am - 11:30am
A 90-minute, small group, experiential training to deepen exploration of the conference themes with our presenter.
Rates
Full-Day Workshop
Standard Rate: $180
Agency Rate: $120 *
Student Rate: $40 **
* Discount for anyone working in a non-profit setting.
** Discount for anyone who is currently enrolled in a degree program.
Consultation Group
All participants: $70
Racial Equity Rate: RAGPS’ purpose is to provide high quality training in group psychotherapy to the Western New York community. Since people who identify as members of racial and ethnic groups have historically been denied equal access to education and training, we offer a Racial Equity Rate for our conferences and trainings. If you so identify, regardless of financial need, we invite you to email us to be provided with a discount code.
Other Need: If you are unable to attend a training due to financial constraints and are not eligible for the Racial Equity Rate, please email us to see if a mutually beneficial solution can be reached.
No refunds issued after November 3rd, 2026.
Onsite registration is available.
Full-Day Workshop
Standard Rate: $180
Agency Rate: $120 *
Student Rate: $40 **
* Discount for anyone working in a non-profit setting.
** Discount for anyone who is currently enrolled in a degree program.
Consultation Group
All participants: $70
Racial Equity Rate: RAGPS’ purpose is to provide high quality training in group psychotherapy to the Western New York community. Since people who identify as members of racial and ethnic groups have historically been denied equal access to education and training, we offer a Racial Equity Rate for our conferences and trainings. If you so identify, regardless of financial need, we invite you to email us to be provided with a discount code.
Other Need: If you are unable to attend a training due to financial constraints and are not eligible for the Racial Equity Rate, please email us to see if a mutually beneficial solution can be reached.
No refunds issued after November 3rd, 2026.
Onsite registration is available.
Continuing Education
NYSED CEs are provided by the UB School of Social Work Office of Continuing Education. 6 live in-person contact hours are approved for LMSW/LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, LCAT, and PSY. Full attendance is required; no partial credit will be awarded for partial attendance.
NYSED CEs are provided by the UB School of Social Work Office of Continuing Education. 6 live in-person contact hours are approved for LMSW/LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, LCAT, and PSY. Full attendance is required; no partial credit will be awarded for partial attendance.
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Dr. Chap Attwell, MD, MPH served as Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry (adjunct) at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, where he directed the group therapy curriculum and the NYU/Bellevue Psychiatry Residency Process Group Program for 10 years. He also led as Clinical Director the Medical Student Mental Health Service for 16 years. A graduate of Baylor College of Medicine and the NYU/Bellevue psychiatry residency, he trained in psychoanalysis at PANY and is an advanced candidate at the Center for Group Studies. Based in Dobbs Ferry, NY, Dr. Attwell specializes in training groups, body language, and mind-body therapeutic interfaces. He enjoys time with his family, two large hounds, and writing notebooks.
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Chap Attwell, MD
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Liz Stewart, BCSI, EIA, ESIA, is a Board Certified Advanced Rolfer™, educator, coaching supervisor, and longtime somanaut whose work explores the relationship between structure, embodiment, and the relational field. Practicing Structural Integration since 1991 and eventually teaching, she has spent more than three decades studying how bodies organize, adapt, communicate, and change. Her work is informed by Rolfing Structural Integration, modern analytic and group theory, somatic and trauma-informed approaches, and years of study in relational and experiential practice. Liz teaches and supervises Structural Integration practitioners internationally and is the founder of Postures for Peace, a nonprofit supporting Structural Integration education and practitioners in Central and Eastern Europe. Based in Colorado, Liz remains fascinated by what can be learned when we slow down enough to observe the body, ourselves, and what is happening between us. In her downtime, she loves to cycle, travel, spend time with her daughter, partner and beloved dog.
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Liz Stewart, ASPI, EMCC, BCSI
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2027 Spring Conference
Save the Date!
Carlos Canales, Psy.D., CGP, FAGPA, SEP™
April 2 and 3, 2027
Carlos Canales, Psy.D., CGP, FAGPA, SEP™
April 2 and 3, 2027
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Dr. Carlos Canales, Psy.D., CGP, FAGPA, SEP™, is a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Certified Group Psychotherapist, and Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner in private practice since 2011. He received his graduate degree from Rosemead School of Psychology in 2007. He is fluent in Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt therapy, Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. He has worked at multiple counseling centers such as the Biola Counseling Center, Fuller Psychological and Family Services, and the University of California–Davis Counseling and Psychological Center (UC-Davis, CAPS) for seven years. He has also worked in inpatient and outpatient hospitals and community mental health centers. He is bilingual and bicultural, and has developed an emphasis in the treatment of Latino/Latina clients and working with affect. He provided many psycho-educational workshops and seminars to university communities and various professional agencies, local hospitals, and professional conferences.
Dr. Canales has been facilitating a variety of psychotherapy groups for almost two decades, including a training group for psychotherapists. He served in the board for the Northern California Group Psychotherapy Society (NCGPS), Hispanic Educational Resources (HER), and currently serves in the Iowa Psychological Foundation (IPF) board. He is also a clinical member of the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA), organization that gave him the honor of fellowship (FAGPA), nomination for outstanding professional competence and leadership capacities. Dr. Canales is part of the distant learning committee of AGPA. At Vida Psychotherapy, Dr. Canales treats individuals, couples, and families in addition to providing psychological testing and immigration reports. He also facilitates four psychotherapy, growth-oriented groups for adults and a dynamic reading/case consultation group for clinicians. |
Carlos Canales, Psy.D., CGP, FAGPA, SEP™
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