Open Salons
What did success mean to you then, and what is it now?
Most of us were handed a definition of success early: good grades, a title, a scholarship, a standing ovation.
Over time, that definition can change. Something we once wanted might matter less. Something we overlooked might become more important. Or our idea of success might remain the same, but for different reasons.
Open Salons provide a setting to consider that question together: How has your idea of success changed?
Part of a Mission
Much of my therapy work focuses on what it means to live a life that is your own, beyond the expectations and standards others pass down. Salons provide a space to discuss this topic collectively. People in the circle decide where the discussion begins, where it travels, and where it ends.
There is no charge to host or attend, just an invitation to join the conversation.
You could bring together colleagues, artists, teammates, neighbors, or writers. You might meet in a community room, at work, or in a living room. The key is that people are curious about the question and willing to share and listen to one another.
Why a Salon?
Salons strengthen community bonds by creating space for honest, meaningful conversation. They have brought people together for conversation since the 16th century. A salon is a gathering of 5-8 people from different walks of life centered on open dialogue, not a lecture.
No one provides expert answers; I also take part in the peer discussion. The group shares their personal experiences, listens without giving advice, and shares only what they want. Everyone’s stories and insights are welcome.
By listening to others' stories, you will also become more aware of your own life. This is not a therapy group or a workshop, and you don't need to have all the answers to take part.
Host an Open Salon
You bring your group and a location to meet; then, together, we create a meeting that suits them.
We start by discussing who you would like to invite and what sparked the idea; then we move on to practical matters such as the venue, timing, number of people involved, and how to invite people. We keep the gathering small, so everyone has the opportunity to speak, though they don't have to.
If you'd like to learn more about hosting one, please tell me a bit about you and why you're interested.
Email cerreto@atalentedmind.com, or call or text (804) 337-1884.
There is no charge to host or attend.
