CIRS & Chronic Illness Services
Chronic illness is characterized by ongoing physiological pathology and symptomatology that significantly inhibit an individual's abilities and quality of life over prolonged periods of time. While our principles of agency and well-being apply to all chronic illnesses, we are particularly informed about Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)—a complex, multi-system illness triggered by environmental biotoxins and immunological dysfunction in genetically susceptible individuals. At Center for Creative Choice, we deeply understand the devastating effects chronic illness can have on both physical health and psychological well-being.
Having personally experienced the challenges of chronic illness—particularly CIRS—both Karen Johnson and Dr. Ryan Holsapple are deeply committed to supporting individuals, caregivers, and family members facing a variety of chronic health issues on their path toward healing and well-being as they navigate the unpredictable and taxing world of chronic conditions.
In addition to living with CIRS himself, Dr. Holsapple has spent years as the primary caregiver, devoted husband, and medical advocate for his wife, who suffers from a severe case of CIRS and other serious illnesses. This lived experience has given him a unique understanding of the emotional and logistical challenges that caregiving entails.
At Center for Creative Choice, we are passionate about helping individuals show up authentically for themselves and their loved ones as they navigate the complexities of chronic illness. The services we offer are described below.
Agency and Wellbeing in Chronic Illness Workshop ($35)
July 10th, 6-8pm MST
Join Karen Johnson and Dr. Ryan Holsapple for a live 2-hour Zoom class where they will teach simple, practical tools for staying in agency and supporting your well-being while navigating the challenges—and the growth—of treating chronic illness and CIRS.
Patient Agency Group ($1200)
Starts August 4th
Agency is all about pursuing what we value. When chronic illness strikes, our capacities often shift—bringing grief, frustration, and at times, depression or despair.
Dr. Ryan Holsapple’s research and facilitation work suggest that maintaining a strong sense of personal agency is vital for reducing immune-related inflammation and maintaining psychological wellbeing. Both he and Karen Johnson are specially trained to help individuals reclaim their agency and live meaningful, purpose-driven lives—even in the midst of chronic illness.
Join us for a six-week Zoom video-conference support group designed to empower you with the tools, insight, and mindset needed to restore agency and reconnect with what matters most.
This program includes:
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Weekly group sessions led by Dr. Holsapple and Karen Johnson
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One-on-one meetings with either Dr. Holsapple or Karen Johnson
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Partner group activities for added connection and support
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Agency-based homework exercises
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Curated reading lists
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Ongoing support and community connection
Spots are limited. Sign up today and take the next step in your healing journey.
Chronic Illness Family & Caregiver Agency Group ($1200)
Starts August 19th
Whether you’re offering emotional support to a loved one with chronic illness or providing hands-on caregiving, being in a supportive role presents unique emotional and logistical challenges. As a long-time caregiver, medical coordinator, and devoted husband to his wife living with severe chronic illness, Dr. Ryan Holsapple understands the emotional and logistical challenges this role can present.
Dr. Holsapple has found that maintaining a high state of personal agency is vital for those in caregiving roles. Research shows that the responsibilities of caregiving, while meaningful, can also be demanding—sometimes increasing stress and inflammation in the caregiver, which may impact overall well-being.
The Caregiver and Family Agency Group is designed to help you stay connected to your own values and well-being, while continuing to offer loving support. You’ll gain tools to sustain your inner strength, nurture your emotional well-being, and remain present in both your caregiving and personal life.
Join us for a six-week Zoom video-conference support group designed to empower you with the insight, tools, and mindset needed to restore agency and reconnect with what matters most.
This program includes:
-
Weekly group sessions led by Dr. Holsapple and Karen Johnson
-
One-on-one meetings with either Dr. Holsapple or Karen Johnson
-
Partner group activities for added connection and support
-
Agency-based homework exercises
-
Curated reading lists
-
Ongoing support and community connection
Spots are limited. Sign up today and take the next step in showing up for yourself and those you love.
Intensives
Intensives are immersive opportunities for extended time working with Dr. Ryan Holsapple and Karen Johnson to explore your unique path of healing and claim deeper meaning and direction in your life. Using our facilitative Self Soul Spirit approach, these sessions are designed to help you deepen into who you are.
Imagine accomplishing in one day what might otherwise take a year. Our intensives create the space for profound insight, clarity, and integration—allowing the work to reach deep, lasting levels.
Wilderness Encounter
Join Karen Johnson for an extended time in the wilderness, where nature becomes a mirror for your unique path in life. Rooted in presence and stillness, this experience offers space for deep reflection and transformation. By slowing down and connecting with the natural world, new insights and inner clarity can emerge.
Each immersion is co-created between the participant and facilitator, with the structure and rhythm tailored to your personal journey.
Prerequisites:
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A minimum of six one-on-one sessions with Karen Johnson
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A pre-trip interview to ensure readiness and alignment