BELLY: Breathe, Express, Listen, Learn, You

A Healing-Centered Emotional Recovery Program for those who have completed CPS or need a deeper journey through trauma healing.

 

🌱 Program Overview

BELLY is a trauma-informed, resilience-building program designed to support youth and young adults as they begin healing from emotional wounds caused by violence, bullying, neglect, or other adverse experiences. The name is rooted in the idea that true healing comes from the core — your “belly” — the center of your breath, emotions, and intuition.

This 6–8 week intensive focuses on emotional regulation, identity rebuilding, and restoring trust and safety, using expressive tools, group support, and evidence-based practices.

💠 What BELLY Stands For

Breathe: Learn grounding, breathing, and mindfulness to regain control of your nervous system.

Express: Use art, movement, writing, and voice to release stored emotions and tell your truth.

Listen: Practice active listening and self-reflection in a judgment-free, confidential space.

Learn: Understand how trauma affects your brain, body, and relationships — and how to recover.

You: Reclaim your identity, set boundaries, and strengthen your voice and purpose.

🧠 Program Components

Trauma Literacy Modules: Body awareness, survival responses, shame resilience

Creative Expression: Visual art, guided journaling, spoken word, and movement-based activities

Self-Management Tools: CBT strategies, breathing patterns, somatic resets

Peer Reflection Circles: Confidential, supportive sessions to share and witness without judgment

Wellness Planning: Create a personal “You Guide” for ongoing self-care and boundaries

🎯 Goals & Outcomes

Restore a sense of safety in the body

Build emotional vocabulary and regulation skills

Transform pain into expression and connection

Reduce isolation, shame, and self-blame

Promote post-traumatic growth and long-term wellness

👥 Audience

Ages 11 and up who have experienced trauma, completed the CPS program, or are referred by schools, juvenile probation, or community programs.