West KillLexington to Host Free Community Mental Health Workshops

WEST KILL — Two local mental health professionals are launching a free workshop series this fall designed to provide residents with practical tools for wellbeing and connection in a rural setting.

The "Community Mental Health" series will begin with two initial workshops on Saturdays, Sept. 13 and Oct. 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The events will take place at the West Kill Lexington Community Hall, located at 141 Spruceton Road.

Organizers said the workshops aim to address the unique challenges of rural life, such as social isolation, by offering practical strategies for coping with stress, supporting emotional wellbeing, and fostering social connections.

Topics will include staying positive in changing times, everyday tools for managing stress and anxiety, building social connections, self-care during aging, caregiving for loved ones, and coping with loss. The series is geared towards local residents, weekenders, retirees, and anyone interested in learning more about mental health.

If there is sufficient interest, the organizers plan to continue the workshops on a monthly basis with additional themes.

The series will be facilitated by Dr. Helle Thorning and Gail Spindell.

Thorning is a licensed clinical social worker, author, and educator in behavioral health with a private psychotherapy practice. She lives in West Kill and maintains offices there and in New York City.

Spindell is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals, couples, and groups, specializing in anxiety and depression. She has conducted a Skillful Aging Workshop at the Hunter Library for four years and lives in Jewett and New York City.

The workshops are free to attend. Those interested are asked to RSVP by contacting Helle Thorning at hellethorningwine@gmail.com.