The PATH Program (Poi Assisted Therapy) is an online group therapy program to support trauma recovery. For the first time, PATH brings together two proven therapeutic modalities, EMDR and poi, to support the brain’s natural capacity for recovery. Whether you’re beginning your healing journey or continuing along it, PATH offers a safe space to reconnect with yourself, your strength, and your story. PATH is a collaboration between SpinPoi and The Ora Institute
How it works
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach that helps your brain and body gently re-process distressing experiences so they can be stored in a calmer, more adaptive way. You remain in control at every step, and the healing happens through your own natural processing, supported by rhythmic bilateral stimulation.
The PATH Program is delivered in structured, eight-session online cohorts. You never have to describe your trauma in detail. Poi practice provides that same bilateral rhythm in a way that feels grounded and uplifting. Through a curated series of gentle movements developed by SpinPoi and based on clinical research, poi invites calm, balance, and safety within yourself and your surroundings. The steady rhythm of spinning your poi can soothe the nervous system and offers a deep sense of connection to body, mind, and spirit.
What people are saying
“The EMDR processing has been super beneficial and is actually making a difference to how I think and feel on a day to day basis. My general mood has improved since starting the course and I don’t ruminate on negative stuff as much.” – PATH Graduate
“I struggle with flashbacks, panic attacks, and functioning day to day. I’ve noticed PATH is helping me learn to slow down my thoughts, and even how I feel in my body day to day during hard times or times of high stress. I do have bad days and then remember what I need to do.” – PATH Graduate
“Definitely noticing the ways my body communicates with me; and now I’m noticing it doesn’t stop…I’m growing towards embodiment whereas before I was completely disconnected from my tinana (body).” – PATH Graduate
Meet the Facilitators
Dr. Kate Riegle van West
I am the Founder and CEO of SpinPoi, and the leading global expert in working with poi as a therapeutic tool. I completed my PhD at the University of Auckland on the health benefits of poi and conducted the first scientific study of poi’s effects on physical and cognitive function. My work is driven by the belief in empowering communities through accessible and inclusive practices to improve physical and mental health.
Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt
I am a clinical psychologist working with adults in person and by telehealth. My interests include EMDR and trauma therapy, adult ADHD and Autism assessment, addictions and substance use, and the relationship between psychological health, work and performance. I believe therapy and assessment should make sense in plain language. The goal is not simply to name a problem; it is to understand it well enough to decide what to do next.
Ready to Learn More?
We are accepting referrals now for our upcoming online groups. Anyone located in New Zealand or Australia is eligible to join. For more details and registration, visit The Ora Institute
