S.O.W. challenges professionals to move beyond the traditional methods of understanding development to incorporating learning strategies that honor the whole person and the whole community, both locally and globally.
Among the Modalities S.O.W. Utilizes on a Regular Basis are Social Work, Psychodrama, Sociometry, Playback Theatre and Rites of Passage.
What is Psychodrama?
Psychodrama, was conceived and developed by J. L. Moreno, M.D. (1889-1974). It is a method which utilizes guided dramatic action to examine problems or issues raised in a group, or in individual counseling. Psychodrama is a therapeutic healing modality in which clients are able to use action methods and their physical bodies as mediums for unearthing personal truths and healing from traumatic experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, participants process experiences from the past and explore them in the "here-and now". This allows them to navigate the memories with the support of the facilitator and other group members who have had similar traumas. Research indicates that psychodrama not only allows a client to reframe his/her experiences, but also allows for the weaving together of formerly disintegrated parts of themselves. Success is particularly apparent with adolescents, most likely because psychodrama techniques are more natural to the language and experience of fantasy and play.
What is Sociometry?
Sociometry is a technique that supports the psychodramatic process. It includes exercises and activities designed to enhance belonging, cooperation, cohesion, openness and access to roles within groups. Sociometric methods result in heightened consciousness; perceptions are identified, corrected and eventually sharpened. Group members may then make informed choices with an awareness of the role his or her choices has on the group as a whole. These two therapeutic techniques will allow youth who have experienced trauma to work through their histories, feelings and concerns on a deeper level.
Playback Theatre
In addition to psychoeducation and the use of experiential group therapy, S.O.W. makes generously utilizes storytelling in it's programs through a form of improvisational theater called "Playback". Playback Theater is a form of applied theater where audience or group members share moments from their lives and watch them enacted on the spot by trained actors using music, movement and dialogue that embodies the heart of the stories that they share. Recovery In Action participants will be provided with a safe and confidential space to share their common experiences utilizing Playback as a therapeutic conduit to release memories, emotions and insights.
Rites of Passage for Young Women and Men
Rituals are a feature of all known human societies. They include not only the worship rites and sacraments of organized religions, but also rites of passage, atonement and purification rites, oaths of allegiance, dedication ceremonies, coronations and presidential inaugurations, marriages, funerals and more. Even common actions like hand-shaking and saying "hello" may be termed rituals. Spirit of a Woman programming revolves, especially around healing rituals of completion and release or rites of passage through different aspects of life. Holistic healing is a form of healing that considers the whole person -- body, mind, spirit, and emotions -- in the quest for optimal health and wellness. In this way, if people have imbalances (physical, emotional, or spiritual) in their lives, it can negatively affect their overall health.
The Department of Education in NYC
Learn More About Our In-Depth Work with Young People and Youth Professionals in the Department of Education throughout the Five Boroughs of New York City
