Shepherd Wellness Community

Alternative and Holistic Therapies

Many of our members exist subsist on very low incomes. Alternative and holistic therapies have provided a means by which HIV+ members can take steps toward better health without great expense. SWC does not charge for programs or services.

“Art for Life” Therapy Groups

The Shepherd Wellness "Art for Life Group" meets periodically throughout the year at the Shepherd Wellness Community Center in Bloomfield from 6:00 - 7:30 PM. A light dinner is served at 5:15 PM.

Art for Life is an art therapy program that uses creative imagery with art materials to integrate the problems and concerns of the group. The art process provides nurturing, helps to foster mutual understanding, and is an opportunity for creative self-expression. This group will also address ways to maintain a meaningful quality life in the face of HIV/AIDS.

Our teacher is Walpurga Allen. She is a native of Germany who studied art and psychology in Europe. Three years ago, she came to Seton Hill College where she obtained her Master's Degree in Art Therapy and Counseling Psychology. Walpurga is married to an American who is still working in Germany. She also has a married son in Colorado. She is presently working at Western Psychiatric Hospital in the dual diagnosis unit leading an open art studio and conducting art therapy with patients who are dealing with addiction and depression.

Ms. Allen hopes that the creative process of Art Therapy will provide a supportive environment where members of the Shepherd Wellness Community may deal with life issues in ways that promote healing and wellness.

Check the calendar for dates and times.

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Pa Tuan Chin, Beginner's Hatha Yoga, and Dance Therapy for Health and Well-Being

Pa Tuan Chin, Begginner's Hatha Yoga, and Dance Therapy Classes are offered by The Shepherd Wellness Community periodically during the year at 6:00 PM at the SWC Community Center. Please call 412.683.4477 for more information. A light dinner is served at 5:15 PM.

Check the calendar for dates and times.

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Massage Therapy

The Shepherd Wellness Community offers therapeutic massage appointments several times throughout the year on the second and fourth Fridays at The Shepherd Wellness Community Center in Bloomfield. Also offered on those evenings are peer support time and refreshments at 6:00 PM, speaker at 6:30 PM, and dinner at 7:30 PM. Therapeutic massage may offer benefits of stress reduction, improved circulation, and relief of muscle tension.

Table massage appointments are free for SWC members who have filled out an Information Form. Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and must be made in advance. Please call 412.683.4477 to register. Chair massage is offered on a first-come, first-served basis with no registration needed.

The Shepherd Wellness Community Center is located one block from West Penn Hospital at the corner of S. Mathilda and Sciota Streets in Bloomfield.

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Updated: March 28, 2007
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