Improving Anxiety Through Improv

Giving up control, leaning into uncertainty and accepting failure and pivoting - these are all principles of improv and they are also principles that can aid in the reduction of anxiety. 

We currently have both an eight-week class and a three-hour workshop available, led by Licensed Professional Counselor and Program Director, Amanda Lee Williams. Both combine the basics of improv with the concepts of cognitive restructuring to create a safe space for students to explore improv, their anxiety and themselves.

Check out what some former students have said about the class.

“Taking the Improv for Anxiety class was completely life changing. The tools, tips and tricks don’t just work in the next improv class I took, but also in my work and social life. I’m learning to live in the moment, really listen to what’s happening around me, and lessen my judgement on myself. Playing in class reminded me that’s it’s ok to have fun! I learned so much about myself and built true friendships and support among my classmates.”

-Shannon Snow

“ Improv for Anxiety was the ideal environment for me to try something new, have fun and feel supported. Amanda so thoughtfully blended improv skills and insights with ways to improve my mental health. I left each class feeling more comfortable taking risks, less judgmental about myself and others and generally more joyful and more full of life.”

-Caroline

" The "Improv for Anxiety" class at Dad's Garage helped me in so many ways. Being a professional who gets stuck when put on camera, the class really helped me realize all is well and what may be going through my mind at the time may not be what others see. The class taught me even more about how to listen to others so to be able to respond better in many situations. Plus, it is fun!."

- Carl Mattison

ITI holds our Improv for Anxiety class at Dad’s Garage Theatre Company at least once each year, but we can bring our class or workshop anywhere!

Please Note: This is not group therapy, but it is a judgment free zone where you can relax and learn more about improv with other people who feel the same way you do and an educator who has the tools to help you through those anxiety inducing moments that may come up. This is not a replacement for professional anxiety treatment.