About
Pole is therapy! It’s time to debunk the stigma and give pole dance a formal place among other movement-based therapies. In this virtual course, Amber Priestley, a certified pole fitness instructor and a licensed therapist with a decade of experience as a trauma therapist, is on a mission to prove the therapeutic benefits of alternative fitness practices like pole dance and aerial arts. Amber examines broader societal themes, such as sexism, ableism, and oppression, that intersect with pole dance culture and addresses the need to reduce stigma. She provides a limited demonstration of techniques and insights on how clinicians can support clients in alternative movement practices. Learning Objectives: - Understanding how pole dance promotes grounding and emotional regulation - Real-world case study involving over 300 pole dancers - Practical ways to incorporate alternative movement practices in therapy - History and knowledge on the stigma surrounding pole dance and its cultural intersections with mental health - A live demonstration, showing how movement can be integrated into therapy for mindfulness and nervous system regulation. About Amber Priestley: The founder of Skill Spark Therapy, providing psychotherapy and clinical services, and Embodi Wellness Studio, offering alternative wellness and small-group movement classes, Amber Priestley, LMFT, CIMHP, CCTP, specializes in trauma, neurodivergence, holistic health, and wellness. Her work focuses on the ethical integration of movement, music, visual art, and nervous system-informed practices into psychotherapy with neurodivergent and trauma-affected populations. This talk has pre-approved CE hours from the following boards: - 3 hours from the MN Board of Social Work (CEP-2403) - 2.5 hours from the MN Board of Marriage and Family Therapy (2025-505) - 3 hours from the MN Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy for LPCs & LPCCs (2025.CE.512)