vol. 270 / portal

vol. 270 / PORTAL

VOL. 270 / PORTAL

Elise Kindya is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who runs PORTAL Therapy from her Museum District office, operating on the belief that the only way out is through. She's passionate about helping clients reclaim their lives from trauma by holding safe therapeutic spaces. When she's not in session, you can find her snuggling her dogs on the couch, walking through Byrd Park checking out baby geese and turtles, or taking a well-deserved self-care day.

Her therapeutic approach blends EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and her Master Reiki Practitioner training with sound baths in experiential sessions. Holistic healing has transformed her own life—seeing herself as part of nature has been deeply healing, which she brings into her work at PORTAL's healing groups and classes. You can also find her on Instagram @elisekindya and hosting her podcast "Returning Home." Her husband Daniel owns Crewel & Unusual, where he embroiders cute and quirky original art on wearable items.

Take it away, Elise ...

Sacred Candlelit Fridays: BREATH

Unwind from the week and reset your nervous system at Sacred Candlelit Fridays: BREATH—an intimate, trauma-informed breathwork session at PORTAL. Guided through somatic practices in a cozy, sober space (max 8 participants), you'll reconnect with your body and breath, cultivating presence, balance, and self-compassion. Whether you're new or experienced, this is a powerful way to come home to yourself.

Vitals:

Sacred Candlelit Fridays: BREATH / Friday, May 30 / 6:00 – 7:00 PM / $30 / PORTAL Therapy, 3536 Grove Avenue

SoulCollage® with Cheryl Groce-Wright

Tell your story through collage and creativity at SoulCollage® with Cheryl Groce-Wright at The Innerwork Center. This reflective, intuitive process invites you to cut, glue, and arrange images into personal art cards that hold deep meaning. It’s accessible to everyone—no experience needed—and offers a profound way to tap into your inner wisdom. Think: tarot meets art therapy. I took this class years ago and still reflect on what I made.

Vitals:

SoulCollage® with Cheryl Groce-Wright @ The Innerwork Center / Sunday, June 1 / 2:00 – 4:00 PM / Sliding scale, $35 - $70 / The Innerwork Center, 213 Roseneath Road

The Art of Restoring Us @ TAOU Studio

Slow down and restore your nervous system at The Art of Restoring Us—a sliding scale class at TAOU Studio. This gentle, trauma-informed practice is designed to help you reconnect with your body, calm your mind, and replenish energy in a welcoming, intentional space. I’m a huge fan of slower yoga. The pace allows for deeper self-connection, and TAOU always delivers—beautiful vibes, supportive people, and unmatched energy.

Vitals:

The Art of Restoring Us @ TAOU Studio / Monday, June 2 / 10:45 – 11:45 AM / Sliding scale, $10–$22 / TAOU Studio, 2522 Hermitage Road

More about PORTAL.

PORTAL Therapy is a trauma-focused mental health practice where we believe that the only way out is through. Our team of experienced, trauma-informed therapists creates a safe space for healing and self-discovery using an integrative approach tailored to each individual's unique needs.

We work with people of all backgrounds, offering culturally sensitive care for trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Our practice is built on collaboration, empathy, integrity, holistic healing, and safety—creating a "portal" for clients to move toward personal empowerment and fulfillment.

Stay updated on our 1-1, couples, groups, and classes by subscribing to our newsletter!

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Richmondclaire vallisMay 30, 2025go, meet