Lisa Wessan, LCSW, CLL, RM

Upcoming Clutter Relief Programs
in Chelmsford and Westford MA...

Over the mountain, more mountain.

~ Korean Proverb

Recent interview in THE BOSTON GLOBE, 4/19/09 Decluttering life. By Cindy Cantrell http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2009/04/19/decluttering_life/

Declutter Your Heart, Home & OfficeSM [This is the foundation course -- it is a prerequisite for the Clutter to Clarity Mastermind Group.] Presented by the Roudenbush Community Center (RCC) 65 Main Street Westford, MA (ample free parking) WHEN: Wednesday, October 7, 7 – 9 PM. TUITION: $25 RCC members/$28 general public (early enrollment special: $20 before September 30, 2009.) Register Online at: www.roudenbush.org (Class # E6166) PHONE: 978-692-5511 x222

 

Declutter Your Heart, Home & OfficeSM [Lecture, keynote] Having clutter at home or at work is a personal challenge that can distract, overwhelm and sometimes disable the clutterer and those around him/her. This lecture explores some characteristics of a person who clutters and how excess clutter affects health, energy, relationships and prosperity. Successful strategies are presented, including techniques for the release of clutter, how to find safe sources of emotional support, stress reduction and guided imagery. All participants receive handouts, tip sheets and a rich bibliography to help create a more rewarding and relaxing life. Some background information: During the years I worked as an individual, family and group therapist in the Senior Care Center of a large urban hospital in New York City, I met with many clutterers, hoarders and downsizing challenged clients who had success in letting go and clearing out space while participating in my wellness workshops. My clients were often referred to me for depression, but when we focused on releasing their clutter, they often had huge improvements in their mood. There is clearly no one size fits all treatment plan  for depression, but I do believe that for many people when they focus on releasing their clutter, other blockages are also dissolved. Most important, when the toxic shame is released, the energy that was stored in that massive emotional blockage can be utilized to face the tasks at hand. (It also works conversely, when unexpressed grief or anger are expressed and released, suddenly there is the willingness to clean up the clutter.) This work combines the best of cognitive behavioral techniques, some spiritual principles from Feng Shui, and many creative strategies for recycling, giving away and/or turning your trash into cash. One of my broader goals is to help you allow for more joy in your journey towards wholeness, harmony and order. Truly, there are no perfect people allowed here at Earth School… so I say, let’s put the FUN back in dysfunctional!

Clutter to Clarity Mastermind Group (C2C)  [Group coaching] Incorporating gentle methods and systems from many schools of organizing and clutter management, you will have a chance to successfully work through problem areas at home or work. You will learn to reinforce your positive actions and get support for your resistance, negative emotions and the energy blockages that arise.  C2C includes an exciting blend of structured group exercises, focused topics and group discussion. You will have a chance to speak and process your success and challenges each week. *** Limited to 12 participants.       Please enroll early to ensure      your place. *** WHEN: Eight hours of group coaching, four Wednesday evenings 7-9:00 PM: Fall Session: October 14, 21, 28 & November 4. WHERE:  The Orchid Room 16 Main Street North Chelmsford, MA  01863 (1/2 mile from Route 3, Exit 33). TUITION:  $200.00 (register before October 7th and pay only $175.) How to register: Please call 978-455-0660 to reserve your place. Due to the small size of this group, spaces fill quickly. All payments for the October group should arrive by Friday, 10/9/09. Send your check payable to  'Mirth Maven Productions.' No refunds available, but cancellations before 10/9/09 can be used for credit towards  private consulting sessions or a future group. Mailing Address: Lisa Wessan, LCSW PO Box 421 North Chelmsford, MA, 01863

Laughter Yoga combines laughter with yogic breathing exercises. It is a perfect way to laugh and get exercise at the same time. It approaches laughter as a body exercise so it's easy to laugh even if you're depressed or in a bad mood. Last year I highlighted Laughter Yoga on my TV program. I've tried it, and it works. ~ Oprah Winfrey   January 14, 2008

Upcoming Laughter Wellness Program… Laugh so that your whole body, your whole being becomes involved, and suddenly, there will be a glimpse. For the moment, the past disappears, the future disappears, the ego disappears, everything disappears – there is only laughter. ~Osho   Philosopher, Mystic and Teacher   (1931-1990) Let Go & Lighten UP: Laughter is the Best Medicine! Introduction to Laughter Meditation, Laughter Yoga and Laffirmations [Intergenerational public program] Friday, July 17, 2009, 7 - 9 PM Circles of Wisdom 90 Main Street, Andover, MA The cost of this workshop is $25. Register by July 10 and pay only $20. To register online: type in “Wessan” at site’s search bar: www.circlesofwisdom.com

 

The Mirth Maven in the Media...

July 7, 2009 - In greater Boston area, tune into WUML, 91.5 FM, 10-10:30 AM or globally go to  www.uml.edu/thinkoutloud   for wicked funny banter on health and politics with host David Tierney and monthly guest Lisa Wessan. April 19, 2009 - Interview in THE BOSTON GLOBE. "Decluttering life." By Cindy Cantrell http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2009/04/19/decluttering_life/ April 9, 2009 - Interview in THE BOSTON GLOBE. "Laughter is the best medicine, so here's to your health" by Denise Taylor . http://www.boston.com/ae/events/articles/2009/04/09/laughter_is_best_medicine_so_heres_to_your_health/ The Society for Ladies Who Laugh Out Loud. "First Ladies of Laughter" article, Vol. 4:7, http://www.societylaughs.com/newsletters/Vol%204-7.pdf VIDEO: August 29, 2008 - Suncast program, 4 minutes - Laughter Therapy with staff of Lowell Sun http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x13kAb478tE What Makes a Strong Woman?: 101 Insights from Some Remarkable Women. By Helene Lerner (2005), Quote on page 33. http://books.google.com/books?id=M49CsTYIs2IC&pg=PA33&lpg=PA33&dq=%22lisa+wessan%22&source=web&ots=RwzyFpp0Pm&sig=YQ1Pd1AgmnanqBgt23GWin75etw New York Daily News, October 27, 2004, "The Laugh that Heals," by Carol Forget, http://carolforget.com/body.pdf November, 2008 - NASW NEWS (National Association of Social Workers), "Social Work in the Public Eye" by Paul R. Pace. October 14, 2008 - 30 minute radio interview with host Bob Ellis on The Sunrise Show, podcast archived at http://www.uml.edu/wuml/podcast/?p=6047 August 31, 2008 - Feature article in The Lowell Sun,"Make 'em laugh: Chelmsford counselor is dedicated to the healing power of mirth" By Nancye Tuttle. http://www.lowellsun.com/lifestyles/ci_10350246 May 28, 2008 - One hour radio Interview, 30 minutes on Laughter Therapy and 30 minutes on Decluttering topics - with host Elizabeth Foley on The Phoenix Hour, archived at http://www.toginet.net/main.asp?pID=78 (scroll down to The Phoenix Hour, 5/28/08). May 12, 2008 - One hour radio Interview - Declutter Your Heart & Home - with host Debby Hoffman on WKLX 1450’s Community Business Connection. Aired multiple times throughout the Concord NH area. Hear it on http://www.wkxl1450.com. April 29, 2008 - Radio Interview - The Ways to Harmony - Inside and Out, with Boston host Jordan Rich, guest Jay Uhler cites helpful tips from Lisa's workshops. Read the transcript at http://www.jordanrich.com/JayUhler/TheWaysToHarmonyInsideAndOut.pdf February 20, 2008 - 30 minute radio Interview - What is Laughter Therapy? With host Dean Johnson on The Merrimack Magazine Talk Radio Show , WCAP-AM (980 AM). Hear it on http://www.980wcap.com. January 4, 2008 - The Lowell Sun "Giggle, chuckle, cackle or snicker -- it's all good" By Rita Savard. Shrink Rap, January 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 2008, "From Clutter to Clarity with Lisa Wessan" with host Edna M. Lezotte, D.Min., LICSW and Szifra Birke, M.S. Nashua Telegraph, November 9, 2007 "Laughter Therapy" http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071109/NEIGHBORS37/7 1109022/0/NEIGHBORS05 The Boston Globe, September 23, 2007 "Laughter is the Best Medicine" by Cindy Cantrell www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2007/09/23/laughter_is_the_best_medicine/ Somerville Journal News, Somerville, MA, July 11, 2007, "From Clutter to Clarity" www.jimsullivanink.com, June 12, 2007 "Clutter: What is it good for? Absolutely Nothing." by Jim Sullivan. Merrimack Valley Happenings, the newsletter of the Merrimack Valley Economic Development Council, June 6, 2007, "From Clutter to Clarity" The Boston Globe (Boston, MA) May 27, 2007, "From Clutter to Clarity: A Holistic Approach"by Bobby Hankinson http://calendar.boston.com/events/show/10836705-From-Clutter-to-Clarity-A-Holistic-Approach Upstate Update (newsletter of SUNY Upstate Medical University), Syracuse, NY, November 1, 2006 "National Pastoral Care Week celebrated with series of events Oct. 22-28" IRC Newsletter (InterReligious Council of Central New York), Syracuse, NY, September 2006,"Pastoral Care Day Explores 'Healing Humor' " The Journal News (Westchester, NY) September 25, 2005 Hospital and Health Update, "The Science Behind the Smile" CNN News, "Paula Zahn Now," March 10, 2005, "Laughter is the Best Medicine"

Testimonials

CLUTTER TO CLARITY WORKSHOPS… "Lisa's workshop, 'From Clutter to Clarity: A Holistic Approach,' was one of the highest attended that we've had for our Adult Services Program. She filled the room to capacity and had the crowd enraptured with her practical, yet enlightening PowerPoint presentation. I have had "decluttering" programs at the Library before but Lisa's approach was far more interesting than our past presenters...I have already invited Lisa back to do another program in June. I highly recommend her as a program presenter for libraries." Kristina Leedberg Head of Information Services J. V. Fletcher Library Westford, Massachusetts Thank you again for speaking at church on "Sacred Spaces: Declutter Your Heart & Home." Many people have commented on how your message spoke to them and their own situation vis-a-vis a parent or partner. Your suggestion about talking with the person to understand the story behind the clutter and not just pushing ahead to throw things out was very helpful. The humor you brought to it all was also much appreciated.  Rev. Cricket Potter First Parish Church United Westford, MA "Wonderful speaker! I need you at my church, especially at church council meetings!" Jill Magnuson, Pastor Jordan United Methodist Church Jordan, New York "Great job! Loved your energy, passion and vulnerability." Madelyn Boynton CPE Student (Clinical Pastoral Education) University Hospital Syracuse, New York THERAPEUTIC LAUGHTER, TEAM BUILDING WITH LAUGHTER, LAUGHTER YOGA, LAUGHTER MEDITATION.... "Whether it's facilitating a group of people to experience their natural, intrinsic laughter mechanism, or celebrating freedom from compulsive eating -- by having a Food Funeral -- or providing guided imagery to create a life you love, Lisa Wessan's ideas are innovative, unique and freeing. Her passion runs deep -- she is committed to contribute and enliven whatever environment she's in. When I saw Lisa facilitate an auditorium full of ethnically diverse elders, some not even being able to stand up without assistance, I thought, "She'll never get them to do a penguin laugh." But lo and behold, the room was transformed into a pack of laughing people, Lisa leading the way. It's a vision I'll never forget. Lisa rocks!" Lois Barth, President Healingworks On-Site Services, Inc. New York, New York "Lisa Wessan not only brings the gift of laughter, she brings the presence of joy. She is a remarkable teacher, a gifted facilitator, and a model of mentshlicheit." Dr. Marc Kramer, Executive Director "50 & Solo" of the JBFCS New York, New York "I attended your session on 'Healing with Laughter' at the Holistic Self Care Center and I thoroughly enjoyed it…I felt pounds of stress lift from my shoulders and it stayed that way for several days...I really would like to continue with this. Please keep me posted...and thanks for spreading the laughter and making it have value to the universe." Melissa Carnevale, President MouseHelp, LLC Nashua, New Hampshire "I'm so glad you're giving people this opportunity to obtain a new perspective of life and use laughter to transform their lives!" Cristabel Cervantes, Student Middlesex Community College Lowell, MA "Thank you Lisa Wessan! Laughter Fitness was such an extraordinary experience.... We began as very mature adults and by the end of your Laughter Fitness program we were transformed into the happy, connected, carefree, uninhibited children we once were. This was an incredible, powerful, healing, fun experience -- the best play date ever! It was good to be a kid again! Everyone on the planet should experience Laughter Fitness..." Marie Herman, Creative Director Mh by Design.com New York, New York "Thank you for a dynamic, informative and vibrant evening. Your laughter workshop was well received by the women who attended. When I told people about your workshop, a broad smile automatically came across my face! The next day students from the workshop came by and smiled, breaking into laughter as they remembered your experiential component. We look forward to working together in the future." Zelda Braun, Assistant Dean of Students Yeshiva University New York, New York "This was fabulous -- I had a very rough day at work -- and came here feeling discouraged and frustrated. I left with a much better, healthier frame of mind. Thank you!" Deborah Matson Nashua, NH

THERAPEUTIC LAUGHTER, TEAM BUILDING WITH LAUGHTER, LAUGHTER YOGA, LAUGHTER MEDITATION.... "This was outstanding...it came at the end of two long days and dissolved the fatigue!" Louis and Kathy Emond Nashua, New Hampshire "By the use of universal sounds and gestures, Lisa helps people feel commonly bonded and comfortable so they can identify with each other, laugh and be silly together in a very serious and powerful way…everyone participated, from all our diverse cultures…our souls were touched very deeply from this Laughter Circle." Kathy Rutkowsky, RN Director, Senior Care Center Elmhurst Hospital-Mt. Sinai School of Medicine Elmhurst, New York "Thank you so much for a night full of laughs. Your presentation, 'Healing with Laughter for Caregivers' was excellent. I got positive feedback from several attendees. I hope we can work together again soon." Brunilda Mejia, Director of Admissions Fairview Comprehensive Nursing Care Hudson, New Hampshire "Lisa Wessan's lively and interactive group session, "Lunch and Laugh," encouraged us to shed our inhibitions, release our stress, and laugh out loud without shame or guilt. Lisa taught us that stress and miscarried grief are at the root of many degenerative physical illnesses, and can trigger mental illnesses as well. Thanks to Lisa's experiential techniques, we learned that the use of therapeutic laughter is one of the most potent, accessible, inexpensive and reliable sources of stress management. When combined with the other modalities, we now trust there can be magnificent healing results with Laughter Therapy!" Naomi Dovdavany, Program Director THE CONGREGATION SHEARITH ISRAEL New York, New York "I loved the roller coaster laugh! I have a back problem, but decided to let laughter distract me so I could participate with others...it was extraordinary! My only regret at Pastoral Care Day was being "all dressed up" so we couldn't get on the floor!" Paul R. Darnell, DMin, LMHC Syracuse, New York   "I am writing to recommend Lisa Wessan as a laughter therapist. In my personal opinion, she did more for the 20 people that gathered for her seminar in 90 minutes than many professionals will do in a lifetime. Through a very carefully thought out process of teaching, experiential learning and consistent corroboration, Lisa taught all of us how to move forward in our lives in a more relaxed and flexible way. She backed up everything she stated with scientific facts and figures and because we actually experienced the information given, no one disputed her teachings. She laid out simple, easy ways to shift perspectives, to make you lift your spirits, heal and move forward in your life. Plus all 20 of us had a great time which further reinforced all that she taught. I unequivocally recommend her - she has a practical message for everyone alive and learning it is fun. It is a powerful combination. I have become an advocate for "Therapeutic Laughter" techniques and philosophies." Leslie Gabriele, Director With Love & Gratitude Foundation Bedford, MA Only a special teacher with extraordinary skills could affect a group of seniors, as well as some non-seniors, the way you did when you presented your "Laughter is the Best Medicine" session at our church...Thank you so much for transforming all of us in just one short session. In today's world, we all know that we need to relax more and reduce the stress in our lives, but we needed someone to actually guide us into learning techniques to facilitate the process. As the audience left the church hall, they seemed amazed at how much less stressed they felt: "I'm sure my blood pressure is much lower now!" "I don't think I've ever laughed this much since I was a young child!" " Now I know what Lisa meant by a 'laugh-induced massage'---I feel less anxious and SO mellow now!" Thank you, Lisa....you performed a life changing service for all of us! Many of us are already planning on attending future workshops with you...See you soon! Violet Dagdigian St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church North Andover, MA

Partial List of Clients:

CORPORATIONS

Strategic Defense of the Environment Group, Inc. New York and Casablanca
Whale Securities, Inc.  New York, New York
Yogacaps Inc., Merrimack, NH