The FORT.
A safe, welcoming space where teens build connection, confidence, and coping skills through shared experiences, creativity, movement, and meaningful, low-pressure interaction.
Connection Through Action.
The FORT is a healing space for middle and high schoolers who connect through shared experiences. There’s no pressure to “perform” or have the “right” words. Instead, teens build confidence, connection, and resilience through action, movement, and creativity while learning to manage anxiety, stress, and sadness.
Each session includes two out of three rotating workshops that change each time they attend the FORT. These are led by trusted staff and trained volunteers. Through hands-on activities, teens engage, open up, and grow, strengthening their “social muscles” and developing practical coping skills by trying different modalities:
Expressive Arts:
Explore emotions through creative expression.
Movement
& Physical Activity:
Release stress and build confidence.
Nature
& Animal Interaction:
Experience calm, non-judgmental connection.
Mindfulness
& Sensory Tools:
Practice strategies to manage overwhelming moments.
Who Is This For
A Different Way to Connect.
At The FORT, connection doesn’t start with conversation; it starts with doing. Designed for teens who struggle in traditional settings, this approach removes social pressure and allows them to engage at their own pace, without being put on the spot.
Best for teens who:
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Find traditional therapy or group discussions intimidating
-
Feel overwhelmed in social settings
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Prefer not to be the center of attention
-
Connect more easily side-by-side than face-to-face
The Three Biggest Outcomes
The Transformation.
Over time with consistent participation,
something meaningful starts to happen:
Build Real Connection:
Teens form genuine friendships and develop trust with peers and supportive adults.
Feel a Sense
Of Belonging:
Teens experience what it’s like to be part of a community that accepts them as they are.
Grow Inner Strength:
Teens learn practical tools to manage stress, anxiety, and emotions in everyday life.
Next Steps.
General Registration:
Online registration is required to attend The FORT. Space is limited to 30 teens per session, so early registration is encouraged.
New Participants:
Parents/caregivers must complete online registration and schedule a brief welcome call by noon on Friday before the session. Walk-ins are not available for first-time participants.
Returning Participants:
Online registration closes at 5 PM on Friday. If space remains available, returning participants are welcome to attend as walk-ins on Sunday.
Upcoming dates:
The FORT Six Week Series
Continuation of this six week program: Building Courage: Knowing Myself, Finding My Place & Discovering What Helps A…
The FORT
Sterling Community Center Register: Free Join us at The FORT for an active, movement-filled workshop and an expressive…
The Program Leaders
Meet Our FORT Workshop Leaders.
Seetal Parikh-Chopra, Ph.D.
FORT Program Lead
Hi! I’m Seetal Parikh-Chopra, FORT Program Lead at the Ryan Bartel Foundation. I hold a Ph.D. in International Psychology and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
For more than 15 years, I have worked in the nonprofit sector developing and strengthening programs that support youth, families, and communities. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about combining research, psychology, and real-world experience to create programs that help people grow, connect, and thrive.
At The FORT, I work closely with teens, families, facilitators, volunteers, and community partners to create experiences that foster connection, resilience, and belonging. I believe that when young people feel accepted and supported, they are more willing to step outside their comfort zones, build meaningful relationships, discover their strengths, and develop skills that help them navigate life’s challenges.
What I love most about The FORT is watching teens realize they are not alone. Whether it’s seeing a teen make a new friend, try something they never thought they could do, or discover a strength they didn’t know they had, those moments of connection and confidence are incredibly powerful. It is a privilege to be part of a program that creates space for young people to feel seen, supported, and valued.
Doreen Duarte Zebdi, MA
Hi, I’m Doreen Zebdi. I’m a movement specialist with an MA in Dance from American University and a lifelong belief that how we move can change how we feel.
At The FORT, I get to share something I love deeply—helping teens express what’s going on inside through movement and creative dance. There’s no “right way” to do it here. Just showing up and moving your body is enough. Because when we move, we often start to feel a little lighter, a little more like ourselves.
Along with my work in dance and fitness, I teach barre, cycling, strength, and yoga and I’m a certified ACE® Health Coach and AFAA® Personal Trainer.
Mostly, I’m here to help you move, express, and maybe even surprise yourself a little. Just move.
Nancy McGovern, MS, RYT-500 & C-IAYT
Hi, I’m Nancy. At The FORT, I use movement, yoga, breath and mindfulness to help teens slow down, reconnect with their bodies, and explore what they’re feeling in a safe, supportive way.
I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Florida State University and a Master of Science in Yoga Therapy from Maryland University of Integrative Health. I’m also a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-500) and Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT).
For over 30 years, I’ve worked with children and teens through creative movement and dance, and I’m the founder of Dance To You and Corner of the Sky. My work has always centered on helping young people express themselves through movement, especially when words don’t feel like enough.
In my workshop, there’s no pressure to perform or get it “right.” Movement becomes a way to release stress, build awareness, and notice how emotions show up in the body. My goal is to help teens feel calm, supported, and more connected to themselves.
Kirsten Shabanowitz, RYT-500, E-RYT 200, YACEP
Hello my friends. I’m Kirsten, a yoga and meditation teacher. I own Kiss of Yoga, LLC which offers boutique services specializing in individually curated classes, community workshops, retreats, and workplace wellness initiatives designed with care and compassion for all ages of practitioners. I have been practicing yoga for over a decade and am truly honored to bring this practice into the hands of others. Whether we are moving, meditating, breathing, journaling, or getting out in nature, these connective, mindful experiences can provide our minds with a sense of calm clarity through regular practice.
I am intentional about providing tools to support the body, mind, and breath connection, invite inquiry inward, celebrate and appreciate the beauty of individuality, and offer tools for continued individual exploration, while upholding and appreciating the roots of yoga through education and practice. In perfect conjunction with my work in wellness, I am also trained in Sources of Strength and support Loudoun County Public School trainings for student and adult leaders through the Ryan Bartel Foundation.
Dave Edwards, LPC
Hi, I’m Dave. The mission of the Foundation really speaks to me, and it’s important to me that young people have spaces like The FORT where they can come, feel safe, and make real connections.
In my work with youth, I see many who struggle with friendship, belonging, and finding activities where they feel comfortable. The FORT brings all of that together in a way that is meaningful, active, and supportive, and I feel honored to be part of it.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the owner and clinical director of Evolve Family Counseling and Sports Psychotherapy in Lansdowne, VA. I have worked with children and adolescents for over 36 years and have provided therapeutic services to individuals and families across Northern Virginia since 2015.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families, as well as sports performance issues. Before becoming a counselor, I played professional soccer in the U.K. and have coached for more than 36 years. I graduated with honors from the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Marymount University.
Michael Kruczkowski
Hi, I’m Michael and I am a proud LCPS educator, serving the community since 2015. I currently work as an Instructional Technology Facilitator in eastern Loudoun, and previously as a Visual Art educator in Dulles South. I have a deep passion for finding connection and self-expression through both visual and performing arts. I view art as a vital form of communication—one that can bridge the gap between different cultures and lived experiences. I hold a degree from James Madison University in Fine Arts, with a concentration in Ceramics and Fiber Arts, and my work often explores the human experience and identity.
I have led a variety of visual and performing arts workshops for teens and young adults, and at The FORT, I’m able to bring that passion to life through creative expression across different mediums. I love seeing young people come in and feel free to create, explore, and express themselves—whether through visual art, movement, or performance. For me, it’s incredibly meaningful to watch teens thrive in a space where they don’t have to fit a mold. They simply get to be themselves and share their story in their own way.
Stephanie Townsend, M.Sc.
Hi! I’m Stephanie Townsend, an Ashburn resident and mom of two teenage boys. I hold a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology with a concentration in Pediatrics and Health Psychology.
My career has included work at Children’s National Medical Center and the Hospital for Sick Children, supporting children and families facing serious illnesses, injuries, and disabilities. I later worked in mental health advocacy with Mental Health America and the National Association of Mental Health Planning and Advisory Councils, helping develop educational resources, support state mental health planning, and advocate for policy change.
Throughout my career and volunteer work, I have developed mentoring programs and training focused on mental health awareness, suicide prevention, leadership development, and supporting adolescents facing challenges such as eating disorders, mood disorders, autism, and trauma.
What I love most about The FORT is helping teens build connection, confidence, and resilience in a space where they feel accepted and supported. It is a privilege to watch young people discover their strengths, find belonging, and realize they are not alone. They are often our biggest teachers.
Voices From The FORT.
Hear directly from teens and parents about their experiences at The FORT. How connection, support, and shared activities have helped build confidence, coping skills, and a stronger sense of belonging.
“In the time we’ve attended The FORT, my child has reengaged socially and discovered strengths within himself. He is less depressed and anxious, more engaged in school and friendships, and shows significant improvement in motivation, confidence, and academic success.”
Parent of FORT participant
“Every time I come here, I feel respected by the facilitators. They genuinely want the best for me and help me expand my toolbox of coping skills in a supportive, encouraging environment.”
FORT Teen Participant
“Finding belonging can be difficult for children, so we’re grateful for The FORT. From day one, staff and teens made our daughter feel welcome. She left smiling and more confident, gaining social, emotional, and organizational skills that support her daily life.”
Parent of FORT participant
“The FORT has helped me so much. I was in a really dark place with depression and anxiety, but it’s gotten significantly better. I’ve found a community here and really enjoy the rotating activities that help me grow each time.”
FORT Teen Participant
“I would highly recommend The FORT. High school can be stressful and full of anxiety. This space has helped me feel calmer, taught me how to manage emotions, and given me healthy ways to handle anxiety and depression.”
FORT Teen Participant
“Before The FORT, I wasn’t in a good place mentally and struggled socially. I’ve learned how to talk to people, connect with others, and feel more comfortable in myself. I’m less anxious and more confident when interacting with others.”
FORT Teen Participant
FAQs About The FORT
The FORT is often a good fit for teens who connect more easily through activities than conversation. A welcome call helps determine fit and answer any questions before participation.
The welcome call is a brief conversation to understand your teen’s needs and history, explain The FORT experience, and ensure it is an appropriate and supportive fit before attending.
The FORT is not therapy or clinical treatment. It is a prevention-focused mental wellness program designed to strengthen confidence, social connection, coping skills, and emotional wellbeing through shared experiences. It has therapeutic benefits and can be a valuable complement to therapy.
That’s very common. The FORT is intentionally low-pressure, allowing teens to participate at their own pace without being singled out or required to engage immediately.
Sessions are led by trained facilitators and supported by trusted adult volunteers experienced in adolescent group settings. Teen ambassadors also help ensure participants feel included and supported.
We maintain a 2:10 adult-to-teen ratio to ensure teens are supported, supervised, and safe throughout all activities.
After each session, we share a summary of activities and program updates. If a specific question or concern arises, we contact parents or caregivers directly.
Success varies by teen. It may be joy after a first session and gradual engagement, or forming connections over time. We focus on individual progress, not performance. Consistent attendance generally results in real growth.
No. Participation is always optional. Teens are invited to engage in ways that feel comfortable, without pressure to speak or share.
Activities are structured to reduce pressure and avoid putting teens on the spot. Facilitators are trained to support emotional safety, regulation, and group dynamics.
That’s not uncommon. We encourage open conversation and are available to speak with families to reflect on the experience and support next steps.