INTRODUCTION TO AUTHENTIC CONNECTION CIRCLES

6-WEEK WORKSHOP

Learn the Core Practices of

Authentic Connection Circles

in a Supportive Environment

Discover the art of presence, connection, and authentic relating in Authentic Connection Circles (also known as Circling). Facilitated by Crystal Leigh (MSW) and Lorna Doucet (PhD), this intimate 6-session workshop offers a safe and supportive space to practice Authentic Connections in a small group setting. Together, we’ll learn how to create deeper, more meaningful connections—both within the circle and in everyday life.

What is an Authentic Connection Circle?

An Authentic Connection Circle (also known as ‘Circling’) is a space for practicing relational meditation—a group conversation where participants bring attention to the present moment, their own experience, and the subtle dynamics between people. Rather than talking about life, we explore what it’s like to be in life together, here and now. The practice emphasizes curiosity, presence, and honesty, helping us to “get each other’s world” in a way that opens doors to authentic connection.

What You’ll Explore

Across six weeks, you’ll gradually build your skills and confidence in :

  • Slow down and bring more presence into connection.

  • Notice and name your moment-to-moment experience with clarity and honesty.

  • Listen in a way that helps you truly “get” another person’s world.

  • Share your impact and be impacted by others with openness and care.

  • Navigate tension, discomfort, and emotional complexity as opportunities for deeper connection.

  • Practice curiosity, boundaries, consent, and choice in relationship.

  • Build trust—both in yourself and in the group field—as you’re witnessed and known.

DETAILS

  • DATES: February 18 - March 25, 2026

  • TIME: 7:00 – 9:30 PM

  • LOCATION: Ave Mont-Royal/Chambord St, Montreal, Canada (exact address given upon registration)

  • FACILITATORS: Crystal Lyons (MSW) & Lorna Doucet (PhD)

  • GROUP SIZE: Maximum 10 participants for an intimate, personalized experience

Cost

  • Regular price $300

  • Sliding scale $100–$300 (limited availability)

  • Paid in advance to reserve your spot.

Registration

  1. Fill out registration form (link below)

    (you’ll be asked for your phone number and availability for a short discovery call).

  2. After the call, submit payment to secure your spot.
    Space is limited—early registration is encouraged.

REGISTER

Testimonials

“I really enjoyed this circling workshop. The facilitators created a very warm, safe atmosphere where it felt okay to be honest, uncertain, or emotional. I appreciated how they guided us without forcing anything, and invited a lot of curiosity and presence in the group.

I left feeling more connected to myself and to the other participants, and more aware of my own patterns in relating. I’d happily recommend it to anyone interested in deeper, more authentic connection.” - Maxime

“The authentic circling with Crystal and Lorna showed me exactly what I needed to work on (but not really work) deeply heal and understand through awareness. I had been in the previous months retriggered with cptsd and my nervous system needed to bounced back on its own through safety with this exact type of connection. Perfect timing !! If you seek to be authentic with yourself and others you will enjoy being within a circle like this.” - Yvonne St Louis

Is This Workshop for You?

This workshop is designed for people who want to:

  • Build deeper, more genuine connections.

  • Feel more confident expressing your truth in the moment.

  • Strengthen your ability to listen with presence and curiosity.

  • Explore vulnerability in a supportive, consent-based space.

  • Navigate tension or misunderstanding with greater ease.

  • Bring more awareness, authenticity, and grounding into your relationships.

  • Practice being seen and seeing others more fully.

  • Explore Authentic Connection Circles with little to no prior experience.

Please note:

This workshop is not a fit if you already have extensive Authentic Connection Circles (Circling) experience, are unable to commit to all 6 sessions, or if your primary interest is simply to meet new people rather than practice relational depth.