A Legacy of Healing Through Movement and Creative Expression

Move To Heal joined The Compass Center in October 2024, bringing innovative arts-based healing modalities to our comprehensive trauma care services. Founded in 2019, Move To Heal has touched hundreds of lives across South Dakota through evidence-based programs that combine creative expression with trauma-informed care.

Our Core Programs

Healing Arts Program

An evidence-based 6-8 week program empowering youth through creative expression. Features include:

  • Small group sessions (1:5 facilitator-to-youth ratio)
  • Art, dance, music, and storytelling activities
  • Focus on building coping skills and trusted relationships
  • Customizable to organization needs

Facilitator Training

A comprehensive 30-hour certification program preparing community leaders to implement the Healing Arts Program:

  • Intensive training in program principles
  • Hands-on experience and mentorship
  • Ongoing support network
  • Annual training sessions building statewide capacity

TCTSY First Responders

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga sessions supporting trauma recovery:

  • Trained trauma-sensitive instructors
  • Small group healing environment
  • Year-round accessibility
  • Evidence-based approach to trauma recovery

Community Performance Initiatives

Fostering community connection through movement:

  • The Dance Collective: A group of local performing artists that perform in community spaces on behalf of Move To Heal SD and offer performance opportunities for Healing Arts program graduates
  • Movement Ambassador Program: Creating safe spaces in community events
  • Focus on inclusion and creative expression

Our Team

Leadership

  • Sydney Bartunek, TCTSY-F, RYT-500 Chief Development and Communications Officer, The Compass Center Founder, Move To Heal South Dakota

Program Leadership

  • Emily Lapolice, LICSW, TCTSY-F Director of Training
  • Mary Parsons, Program Manager, Healing Arts Program
  • Lisa Conlin, Program Manager, Community Performance

Research Partners

Mind Body Trauma Care Lab, University of Minnesota Duluth

  • Dr. Viann Nguyen-Feng, PhD, MPH, LP, TCTSY-F
  • Kelsey Dietrich, MA, TCTSY-F, RYT

University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Jyotsna (Joy) Dhar, M.A.

Program Team

  • 6 Trained Move To Heal Facilitators
  • 4 TCTSY Community Connectors
  • Growing network of trained professionals across South Dakota

Impact and Reach

Move To Heal’s programs serve hundreds of youth annually across South Dakota, with special focus on underserved communities. Our evidence-based approach combines traditional trauma recovery methods with innovative movement and arts-based healing.

Through our merger with The Compass Center, these vital services are now part of a comprehensive approach to trauma care, crisis response, and long-term healing in South Dakota.