We learn about EMDR, mentor our youth, and develop skills for unwinding after work.
A Letter From Our Founder
Hi there,
We made it through another month. Maybe you celebrated Valentine’s Day, maybe you let it pass quietly. The Lunar New Year came and went too (I celebrated, and I’m holding onto the hope that it means some good change is on the way). And for those observing, Ramadan is underway. So much happening, in our personal lives and in the world around us.
I hope you’re finding moments to care for yourself, tend to the relationships that matter, and show up for the things and people you believe in, in whatever way feels possible right now.
This month’s blog is about EMDR, something I’ve been wanting to write about for a while, both because I’ve experienced it personally and because I think it’s often misunderstood. If you or someone you love is carrying trauma, or patterns and beliefs that feel stuck, I hope this piece offers some clarity on what EMDR actually is, how it works, and what the process really feels like from the inside.
As always, if you’re looking for support, we’re here. You can reach us at info@takeroottherapy.com or call or text (323) 388-5578.
Warmly,
Saba Harouni Lurie (she/her/hers)
On The Blog
EMDR Therapy in Los Angeles: What It Is, How Reprocessing Works, and What to Expect
I learned about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) far before I ever experienced it. I was told it was a kind of magic cure for people who had experienced trauma, that people who struggled to recover through other means would find relief after EMDR. Of course, I was intrigued. It took me a long time to understand that so many of my own mental health challenges were rooted in complex trauma, so I didn’t seek out EMDR even when it might have helped. It wasn’t until I was physically assaulted that I finally called an EMDR therapist…
How to Help
Volunteer to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence, Children & Families
Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community. YWCA Glendale & Pasadena has several opportunities year-round for you to become involved as much or as little as your schedule allows – recurring opportunities, special events, program support, and more. We would love your help supporting the women and families we serve.
Food Pantry & Hope Closet–Donation & Organization Dates (10am-1pm)
- March 24th
- April 28th
- May TBD
- June 23rd
Ongoing & Event Volunteer Opportunities:
- Food Pantry & Hope Closet Volunteers
- Domestic Violence Service Center Support Volunteer
- Heart & Excellence Gala Event Volunteer
- Women for Racial Justice Breakfast Event Volunteer
- Girls Empowerment Conference Volunteer
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month Event Volunteer
- Holiday Donation Drive Volunteer
Sign Up Today!
- Fill out the Volunteer Interest Form
- Await further instructions and confirmation of start date from our Volunteer Coordinator
- Follow up with requested documentation (May include Application, Live Scan, TB Test)
YWCA Website: https://ywcagp.org/
WHEN:
Multiple Dates
WHERE:
735 E Lexington Dr
Glendale, CA 91206
DemocraShe’s Mentorship Program
Mentorship is a key element of DemocraShe’s program. Our mentors inspire and support our Future Candidates, and function as role models, as they navigate the program and start on the path to their brilliant futures. As DemocraShe recruits from populations that don’t historically have access to this type of training or mentorships, you can be a pivotal piece of a young woman achieving her dreams instead of dropping out of a leadership track before she even starts.
Our mentors are female-identifying adults who are each paired with one brilliant young Future Candidate, and support her in weekly zoom sessions and/or in-person meetings during the 10 week span of the program. These mentors help the Future Candidate reflect upon what she’s learned, explore new ideas, talk her through any questions or concerns she might have, and celebrate her successes. The mentors are also critical in helping each Future Candidate identify what issues most interest her, and supporting her in exploring opportunities to get her voice heard and take meaningful action within her community.
- Requirements and time commitment – Mentors do NOT need to have political experience, or experience in teaching or mentoring. They simply need to be passionate about lifting young women’s voices and helping them fulfill their limitless potential, and be willing to commit approximately one half hour a week for 10 weeks. There will be a Mentor Leader available to answer questions and provide guidance throughout the process
Community Events
Saved by a Story Highland Park Wildfire Survivor Community Writing Group
Join this free, prompt-driven community writing group for Eaton Fire survivors at Meadow at York Manor.
Come together in community to write about the cherished places we have been, what we have lost (and found), and how we will chart a way forward. Ignite your creativity, share your stories, and find connection in this non-judgmental and creative environment.
Participants of all ages are welcome. Please arrive 5 or 10 minutes early to get settled, as we start the group promptly at 11:30 AM. Bring a notebook (nothing fancy) and a pen
Upcoming Dates:
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Sunday, March 29, 2026
Part of the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund: Community Healing and Restoration Grant Project.
WHEN:
Saturday, February 21
Sunday, March 29
11 AM
WHERE:
Meadow at York Manor
4908 York Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Art Night
Bring a project you’ve been working on or try one of ours!
Presented by Sunday Scaries Art Club.
FREE! Some materials provided. First come, first serve.
WHEN:
Thursday, March 19th
6 – 8 PM
WHERE:
Scribble
2594 E Colorado Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91107
Featured Publications
Still Stuck in Work Mode? Try These 5 Therapist-Approved Rituals to Unwind
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
My Adult Daughter Made A Devastating Decision — And I Know Other Parents Can Relate
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
This One Weird Habit Almost Everyone Does Is Actually Really Good for You
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie