St. Michael’s Family Life Centre

Church Hill

Sligo

0719170329/087 3902661

stmichaelsfamilylifecentre@eircom.net

stmichaelsfamilylife.com

AUTUMN/WINTER

2018

SUPPORTED SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING SERVICE

St. Michael’s Family Centre provides a counselling service to:

children,

families,

couples

individuals

Counsellors are available by appointment and, as far as possible, at times convenient to the

client including some evening appointments. They are fully qualified and professionally

accredited. The service is donation based -the donation being decided between client and

counsellor.

You do not need an official referral. A waiting list applies but we try to keep this as short as

possible. Children (U-18) get priority.

Please contact the office on 071 9170329 if you wish to make an appointment. Out of office

hours, please leave a message and we will get back to you.

You may also email your details to stmichaelsfamilylifecentre@eircom.net.

PLAY THERAPY SERVICE

A Túsla Child & Family funded Play Therapy Service is available in the Centre. Referrals come

through Child and Family Agency, Túsla but are also taken from other agencies including GP’s and

Schools when places are available. A small number of self referrals may be available. An agreed

donation applies to non-Túsla referrals

Please contact us for details.

R.I.P.

We remember the following friends and supporters of St. Michael’s who died

recently; Bishop Christy Jones who facilitated the setting up of the Centre and

continued to support it down the years; Sr Patrick Kerins who volunteered for many

years at our Week of Guided Prayer; Nora Fallon member of our Crochet Club and

Mary Clancy ICA member

May they rest in Peace.

MORNING PROGRAMMES

ADVENT MEDITATION Madeleine Morris

This is a gentle silent form of prayerful meditation during the 4 weeks of advent where we become

more aware of the presence of God in the stillness at the core of our being. It is deeply rooted in the

Christian tradition. Tuesday 20th November to 11th December at 11a.m.

Cost: A voluntary contribution.

ART CLASS Karen Burns

This art class is suitable for both beginners and those who have some experience. The medium used

is Acrylics and the tutor will cater for a range of abilities in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. So if

you would like to try your hand at painting or develop your artistic side, this course may suit you.

8 Monday mornings 10-12pm starting September 24th . Cost: €90

BRIDGE CLUB Peadar O’Donnell

We welcome back all bridge clubs members. Wednesday and Thursday Clubs resumes on

September 12/13th . Limited places for players with some experience are available in Thursday

morning group only. Note this is not suitable for complete beginners. :

Cost: €70 for 14 weeks

MORNING BOOK CLUB

The St. Michael’s Morning book club resumes on September 12th at 11am and will meet on 2nd

Wednesdays of the each month at that time. Cost: A voluntary contribution

JOURNAL WRITING-- Catherine Whitehead

Writing is a wonderful way of expressing yourself, and journal writing in particular helps us to find

our own unique voice. It is a great tool for finding clarity in our thoughts and a wonderful aid in

creative problem solving. If you think you might like to explore writing, or if you write already, this

is for you. We will write in a safe, nurturing, confidential, non-judgemental, fun environment.

Everyone has a voice and I would love to help you find, use and enjoy yours.

6 Tuesday mornings 10.30-12.30 starting 2nd October.

Cost: €80

YOGA NIDRA COURSE Emma Kennedy

Yoga Nidra is a highly effective and gentle practice known to reduce tension, anxiety and stress

symptoms in the body whilst developing a deeper mind-body-soul connection through presence and

awareness. Classes will include gently breathwork and guided meditation and can be done lying

down or seated.

6 Thursday mornings 12.15-1.15 starting 20th Sept with a further 6 sessions starting1st November

Cost: €60 per 6 weeks

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS Naimj Gambi

Do you feel it’s about time to change something in your life, feel better and live better but are not

sure where to start or how to achieve your goals? This course will help you understand how choosing

the right nutrition and lifestyle options can change your life for good! If you want to lose weight, feel

more energised, sleep better, eat healthier, feel more balanced and improve your general health this

course can help. You will learn how to make the right dietary and lifestyle choices that will bring

you where you would like to be with your better self. You will also learn the basics of healthy

cooking, with smart tips and tasty recipes, because eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or plain!

8 Monday mornings at 10.30am starting Oct 8th Cost: €80

MINDFULNESS AND RESILIENCE Frances Larkin

This mindfulness course will draw on a variety of mindfulness practices as well as gentle movements

and will take place over 6 weekly sessions. The course is experiential and does not require any

previous knowledge of mindfulness but it also suitable as a follow-on for those who have some

experience of Mindfulness. For maximum benefit, a commitment to work on yourself through daily

practice for 20 to 30 minutes a day during the course is recommended. Frances has a special interest

in integrating Mindfulness practices in the treatment of stress, depression and anxiety and has

contributed to national and international publications in this area

6 Tuesday mornings 10.30-.12.30pm starting 2nd October. Cost: €80

REFLEXOLOGY FOR BABIES AND CHILDREN – John Whitehead

Bring your child (newborn to 18 mths) along to this 4 week programme and learn quick and simple

techniques that can be used as part of their daily routine. This therapy offers a natural and safe

method to soothe some of the common problems that babies and toddlers may suffer from including

sleeping problems, reflux, teething, colic and constipation. Regular treatments can result in improved

health and well-being, strengthen the immune system and creates a special time to bond with your

child. John is a qualified Reflexologist, and has completed specialist training in Reflexology for

Babies and Children.

4 Monday mornings 11-12.30 starting October 1st . Cost: €50

p problems

EVENING COURSES

THE ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE Sarah Compton

The Alexander Technique is an educational, self help approach for relieving the excess tension that

causes much back pain, postural problems and many other musculo-skeletal disorders. In this

practical introductory class, you’ll learn about moving in accordance with human design, enabling

you to do everyday activities more easily and efficiently. This new awareness reduces tension and

ongoing wear and tear. You’ll also learn how to soften the tension build-up you have already

acquired!  Numbers limited. 

6 Wednesday’s 6-7.30pm starting 3rd Oct Cost: €70

PARENTING ALONE SUPPORT GROUP Pernille Burns

This group is for parents who are parenting alone for whatever reason, separation, bereavement or

lone parent . Sharing experiences and ‘what works for you’ will be part of the group. It will be

facilitated by Pernille Burns, an experienced parenting tutor but will follow the demands of the

members. The group will meet for 50 minutes for 7 weeks with the possibility of continuing if the

members wish.

7 Tuesday evenings 6.35-7.25 starting 25th September. Cost: A small donation

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

Bereavement can leave us feeling raw and vulnerable. It can be helpful to meet others going through

a similar experience, to talk and share feelings and coping strategies. This 4 week support group will

be informal and participant led with time for talking and listening in a confidential setting. Please

contact the Centre 0719170329 for details.

Cost: A voluntary contribution.

AROMATHERAPY AND REFLEXOLOGY FOR NATURAL HEALING

Laura Bell

This six week course will focus on introducing participants to the benefits and applications of

aromatherapy and reflexology, combined with exploring the power of using positive ‘affirmations’

to enhance our lives. It will include tips on healthy eating, relaxation and meditation and information

on the safe use and application of a variety of essential oils. An introduction to the benefits of

Reflexology for many common ailments will also be included.

6 Monday evenings 7-9pm starting October 15th Cost: €80

YOGA NIDRA Emma Kennedy

Yoga Nidra is a highly effective and gentle practice known to reduce tension, anxiety and stress

symptoms in the body whilst developing a deeper mind-body-soul connection through presence and

awareness. Classes will include gently breathwork and guided meditation and can be done lying

down or seated.

6 Thursday evenings 5.30-6.30pm starting 20th Sept with a further 6 sessions starting1st

November Cost: €60 per 6 weeks

MONDAY BOOK CLUB

The evening book club meets on the last Monday of the month at 8pm. Resuming 24th September.

A small number of places are available—enquire at office for details

Cost: A voluntary donation

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

SUÍ MINDFULNESS & YOGA NIDRA (deep relaxation) – Derval Dunford

When we invest a small slice of time wisely, we can experience a sense of timelessness, something

that small kids experience all the time. It can feel like a mini-holiday, a complete break from the time

consciousness that causes stress and anxiety. These rich, yet simple practices have the capacity to

heal body, mind and spirit, and help you to sleep deeply.

While we are more connected than ever virtually right now, we have never been more disconnected

from nature, and inner nature, from our true selves. The essence of Celtic spirituality was presence.

Natural rhythm was honoured. There was a deep connection with the earth. A Slice of Time is a

unique way to connect with this presence and create a sense of being grounded.

Derval’s previous work has been endorsed by medical and health-care professionals both nationally

and internationally. It is essential to be cosy. Bring a warm blanket, and a pillow or cushion for the

Yoga Nidra. Wear comfortable clothes.

Saturday 29th Sept. 10.30-4.30. Numbers limited Cost: €70

MAKE YOUR OWN FABULOUS FABRIC

SCULPTURE

Justine Prendergast

At this artistic workshop you will learn how to create your very own fabric figurine sculpture.

No experience needed and all materials provided. The process involves

the making of an ‘armature’ or figure made up of wire and tinfoil (these will be already made

but you will be shown how)

the use of liquid hardener to finish the figure

Assorted fabrics to dress the figure

Findings or accessories to add to the completed figure

Then after a full productive day you get to take home your wonderful creation for your home or

garden. Please see ‘art with justo’ facebook page for more information. Some pictures of what can be

made are available in the Centre. Numbers are restricted to 12/14 so book early! Please bring old

shirt, packet of latex gloves.

Sat 6th October 10am - 6pm Cost: €110 to include all materials and light lunch

PROJECT ME Anne Marie Southcombe

Do you ever suffer from stress or anxiety? I think most people do nowadays! So how do YOU

manage your daily stresses or busyness? What about self care? Is this a practice you cultivate in your

life? What limiting beliefs are stopping you from moving forwards and achieving your goals? How

often are YOU and your well-being at the top of your "to do list"?

How about making YOU a priority this time? In keeping up with the demands of a busy life most of

us end up neglecting ourselves to some degree. When we forget to look after ourselves, we become

depleted, stressed out, anxious or run down. Life, with all its demands, whether its work, home,

family and other relationships, gets harder to manage. It’s like running on empty. Caring for yourself

is one of the most important things you can do. So it’s time to refuel. 

Saturday Oct 20th 10.30-4.30. Cost: €60 which includes a light lunch

CREATING A VISION BOARD FOR THE FUTURE  Laura BellVision boards

are powerful motivational tools  which  provide a positive and creative method to help stimulate and

inspire your dreams and aspirations.  Laura will take you through  a gentle process of identifying

areas in your life which you wish to change or goals which you would like to manifest.  We will 

explore the beliefs and attitudes which may be the root cause of what is blocking your desired

future.   Participants are asked to bring  old magazines, photocopies of photographs (or the original,

if you don't mind using them on your board),  and a  ‘board’ of whatever shape or size they desire, eg

a large sheet of coloured card, cardboard, cork notice board etc. Saturday 3rd November 10.30-4.30.

Cost: €60

AN INTRODUCTION TO GENEALOGY: Eileen Sheridan

What do you know about your ancestors? Would you like to start researching where you came from?

This course is for beginners who wish to look at the sources available and to share their own family

story if they wish. We will check out the variety of sources including the Censuses and government

sites. It is presumed that there is no prior knowledge. You are welcome to bring any specific name

you may wish to research.

Saturday 17th November 10.30-4.00 Cost: €60

YOGA NIDRA MORNING Emma Kennedy

Yoga Nidra is a highly effective and gently practice known to reduce tension, anxiety and stress

symptoms in the body whilst developing a deeper mind-body-soul connection through presence and

awareness. This morning will introduce people to the practice which includes gentle breathwork and

guided meditation and can be done lying down or seated. Please bring a mat or blanket and wear

comfortable clothes.

Saturday 1st December 10am to 1.30pm. Cost: €30

RAINBOWS

This is a programme of support for children and teenagers who have experienced

the loss of a parent through separation or death. It is facilitated by caring adults

who are specially trained for this work. Contact 071 9170329 for enrolment

details.

The next programme will take place in January and enrolments are ongoing. A

parents’ information meeting will take place in November

We currently need more volunteer facilitators for Rainbows so Please contact

us if you feel this would interest. 4 days of training will be involved

OTHER SERVICES

GROW's mission is to nurture mental health, personal growth, prevention and full recovery. It is a

confidential support group which promotes good mental health through a twelve step programme of

personal maturity and growth. Members attend a weekly meeting lasting about two hours which

follows a specific Group Method which according to research results in members needing

significantly less professional help and have less chance of relapse. Members provide mutual support

in undertaking certain tasks each week that encourage a healthy change in thinking, behaviour and/or

relationships. Enquiries, in confidence, to 086 8516939 or 074 9161628.

Meetings are held at 10:30 on Tuesday Mornings and at 7:30 on Wednesday evenings. No

introductions are needed, just come along. No membership fees or dues are charged. All Welcome

SLIGO SPEECH THERAPY

With over a decade’s experience, this Private Speech and Language Therapy service offers a high

quality and highly individualised service to children from infancy to adolescence who present with

speech, language and/or social communication difficulties. These may present in isolation or be

associated with a diagnosis such as Developmental Delay, Learning Disability or Autism Spectrum

Disorder.

Please note this is a PRIVATE SERVICE and all enquiries are made directly to 087 65709871

A GIFT WHEN YOU NEED IT

Friends of the centre who are qualified in holistic therapies have volunteered some sessions

regularly over the years to help people who may be going through stressful times. If you are a

qualified holistic therapist and would like to volunteer a few hours of your time each month, we

would welcome you to get in touch at 071-9170329

ROOM RENTAL

In order to fund the services of the Centre, St Michael’s rents rooms to individuals, groups and

organisations. Our rates are reasonable and the centre is available until 10pm each night. Please

contact the office 0719170329 for details and availability.

SUPPORT GROUP

MEETINGS IN ST. MICHAEL’S

A.A TUESDAY @ 1PM

WEDNESDAY@7.30

SATURDAY @ 1PM

SATURDAY @ 8.30PM

SUNDAY @ 11.30AM

G.A SUNDAY@7PM

TUESDAY @7PM

THURSDAY @8.30PM

GAM ANON: SUNDAY@7PM

GROW: TUESDAY@10.30AM

WEDNESDAY@7.30PM

NA: MONDAY @8.30

WEDNESDAY@8PM

FRIDAY@7.30

SATURDAY 6-7PM

SUNDAY @ 6-7PM

AL ANON: WEDNESDAY @8.30

SATURDAY @12.30PM

SUNDAY @ 11.45AM

TOP (TRIUMPH OVER PHOBIA): WEDNESDAY 8-9.30PM

ENROLMENT FOR COURSES:

Phone 071 9170329;

email: stmichaelsfamilylifecentre@eircom.net

Call in person during office hours

9.30am-4.00pm Monday-Thursday

9.30-3pm Friday

All enrolments are on first come basis and will continue while places are available.

Non-refundable deposit of €20 applies to Saturday seminars are payable at

enrolment

Full payment at enrolment for all other courses

Minimum numbers needed for all courses.

Some courses have limited availability.

Where a course is cancelled by the Centre a full refund

will be given.

All Saturday workshops include a light lunch