Mental Wellness: Self-Compassion Workshop

Wednesday, October 19, 2022, 3:30 – 4:30 pm (ET) on Zoom

We are always our own worst critics, but it can be especially true for those working in the entertainment industry. Stakes are high when work is precarious and your identity is so closely tied to your professional life. 

The workshop will provide you with crucial skills in self-compassion and give perspective on why it is so important. Together, we will work through self-kindness, validation, self-protection, and providing for ourselves. We will also discuss useful tools and strategies to help build and practice self-compassion.

Accessibility: ASL interpretation, closed captions. Please get in touch with us if you require any additional accommodations.

---

Meet the workshop facilitators

Hayley Schmalz, she/her, MSW, RSW (Ont.)

Hayley Schmalz is a registered social worker and works as a Case Manager with The AFC. Hayley holds a Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, and Master’s Degree, all in social work. In her role with The AFC, Hayley provides client advocacy, counselling support, and tailored referrals to additional services. She also engages in collaborative planning to help maintain life stabilization. More recently, Hayley has developed a Counselling Pilot Program with The AFC to support those who face barriers in accessing affordable mental health services.  

Previously, Hayley worked in several roles in mental health counselling, housing, and harm reduction case management with houseless and underhoused populations. Hayley’s expertise has been in supporting those with complex mental health and substance use.

As a visual artist, Hayley shares a strong connection to the arts sector. She is also a passionate supporter of music, art exhibits, and film and television. 

Megan Potestio, she/her, BSW, RSW (Ont.)

Megan Potestio is a registered social worker. She has been working with The AFC’s Maintaining Mental Wellness services, including Designated Sharing Time and the new Navigator program.

Megan’s focus and passion for mental wellness in the entertainment industry stem from her time working behind the scenes on a theatre production while studying to become a social worker. Megan brings ten years of community case management experience, predominantly working with individuals living with mental illness, substance use, and homelessness.