Who is the epicenter for?

Our in-person work and our individual sessions are for students ages 7 - 22 who recognize that something is holding them back from achieving their full potential. We also offer individual sessions for parents and other adults in support of the children and adolescents we work with.

The Mistake, a book that explores how we start to limit our potential at a very young age, is intended for children ages 8 - 11 and their parents/teachers, though it has been appreciated by people of all ages.

Our artwork is for all ages.

where is the epicenter located?

Within you!

We are located in Santa Cruz, CA as well as in Michigan (Holland and Detroit metro area).

what is empowerment?

As young children, we are fearless. As we grow older, we become filled with doubts and hesitation. These doubts hinder us - they stifle our courage, they dictate our behavior, and they limit our potential. At The Epicenter, we address these doubts head on. We seek to understand their origin for each individual, and through our sessions we empower our students to know themselves and their limitless potential.

are you therapists?

We are not therapists. We call ourselves guides. After working with hundreds of people, we know how to create a judgment-free space that allows for open, truthful exploration. By asking open-ended questions we are able to guide people to discover their authentic selves. We have no agenda - no idea for how someone 'should be' - and are often just as excited as our students when something about their true nature is revealed.

how does the epicenter work with parents?

Parents are essential to our work with students and we work as closely with parents as possible. Although not required, it is our preference to meet with parents on a regular basis. We want to hear their observations and perspective. As part of our work with students we create a space of confidentiality, so we will not repeat what they have shared. However, we will share our observations, strategies, and recommendations with parents so that they can continue our work at home. The more we work as a team, the stronger the student will be.

We also offer individual sessions for parents and have an extensive partner network to provide additional support. We find that parents - like all of us - benefit from new perspectives and guidance, and that creating space for personal self-reflection positively impacts children.

how does social-emotional learning fit into the epicenter?

By focusing on understanding behavioral patterns and reconnecting with our authentic selves, The Epicenter naturally teaches social and emotional skills. Our classes and individual sessions support SEL efforts that may be ongoing through school or at home.

i have more questions

And we'd be happy to answer them! Please connect with us and we'll be in touch as soon as we can.