I facilitated the Brick Wall workshop for survivors of domestic violence at Shepherd’s Door. All seven women engaged fully and authentically in the workshop, each creating a unique interpretation of their brick wall symbolizing the things that protect and give them strength.

Many women infused their walls with positive elements—strength, courage, love, and peace—indicating a desire not just to protect, but to grow. One reimagined the “wall” as a path forward, showing hope and agency—an inspiring deviation that reflected her readiness for transformation.

Participants showed vulnerability, insight, and a deep openness to healing, the art becoming a safe space to articulate unspoken feelings. The session created space for both shared reflection and private meaning-making—validating each woman’s individual journey.

One woman reflected on her experience saying, “What we did today really helped me connect with myself. We started with drawing exercises to express how we feel and what we’re grateful for, using our journals. Then we took time to explain why we chose what we drew—what it meant to us, how it made us feel. It helped me go deep into my psyche without distractions. I was able to see what I need to work on and also recognize what’s currently empowering me.

In the second exercise, we created a wall. We filled it with words and images representing the things that protect us, give us strength, or what we want to manifest in the future. It was like building something strong and personal that reflects who we are becoming. 

To close, we each picked a self-care card. Mine said ‘Move your body.’ It encouraged us to take a walk, dance, or do yoga—whatever helps us shake off the day. That card really resonated. Lately, I’ve had this deep need to move. I’ve been going on long runs and doing yoga to ground myself, release tension, or just feel better. Pulling that card felt like a sign—I’m listening to my body, honoring what I need, and giving myself the love and care I deserve.”