Group Type: Workshop
Goals of the group
This is a space where we can explore overthinking rather than suppressing it (as we know, saying “don’t think about it” or “you’re overthinking, stop” rarely works!). We aim to understand what our mind is truly trying to convey, avoid, distract, or notice beneath the guise of overthinking. At the heart of overthinking lies anxiety, which often forms a cloud of overthinking. But what is this cloud really obscuring or trying to communicate?
Our goal is not to provide a 5-step formula to eliminate overthinking. Instead, we seek to understand how our mind works and coexist with this aspect of ourselves. As a group, we will explore various ways to cope with the cloud of overthinking that often hinders decision-making. Sharing similar experiences and situations, we can offer support and understanding to one another.
Workshop Regime
Session 1: Unpacking Overthinking
- What led you to join this workshop?
- How does overthinking affect your sense of self?
- What coping mechanisms have you been using?
- What are your expectations for the group?
Session 2: Getting to Know the Overthinker in You
- What is your relationship with overthinking?
- Exploring sensations, feelings, and needs
- Understanding the functions of overthinking
- Cultivating curiosity and compassion
Session 3: Exploring Pain Points
- Negative bias vs. fantasizing
- Exploring thought patterns
- The balance between indulgence and resistance
- Making informed decisions
Session 4: Building Perspective and Finding Support
- How has your narrative around overthinking evolved?
- Seeking self-validation
- Nurturing facets of support
- Group check-in
Note: The session topics, order, and other details may be subject to change based on the needs and preferences of the group members and facilitators.
Please note that the session topics, order, and other details may be subject to change based on the needs and preferences of the group members and facilitators.
Facilitator Bio:
• Years of Experience: 4
• Groups Facilitated at SoulUp: 2
• Relevant Expertise: Trauma-informed Relational Therapy, IFS-informed Exploration, Psychodynamic and Somatic Work, Mindfulness-based Listening, Emotional Regulation
Saumya Gairola is a psychotherapist who supports individuals experiencing constant mental churn, self-doubt and the pressure to figure everything out alone. She understands how overthinking often comes from a place of fear, longing and a desire to stay safe. Her approach is relational, trauma-informed and grounded in presence. She integrates Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic understanding, somatic practices and mindfulness-based listening to help people connect with the parts of themselves they have had to silence or push away.
Beyond therapy, Saumya has facilitated support groups, mental health retreats and listening circles, and has led workshops in educational and workplace settings. She is trained in Mindfulness-Based Counseling and Gestalt therapy, which guide her integrative practice.
In SoulUp’s Overthinking Support Group, Saumya creates a calm and non-judgmental space where participants can slow down, reflect and feel understood by others who share similar experiences. She finds purpose in helping people feel less alone in their thoughts and supporting small emotional shifts that bring more clarity and ease into daily life.
