Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Wednesday, August 5th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Caregiver Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy! 

We welcome all dysautonomia caregivers (parents, spouses, friends, family, etc.) living in California to attend. The caregiver group is a space for open and supportive discussion related to caring for an individual with dysautonomia. We ask that patients please utilize our other offerings instead of attending this group. Patients are welcome at the monthly support group that typically occurs on the 4th Saturday of the month.

Date: Monday, August 3rd, 2026

Time: 1:00-2:00pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up through the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Saturday, July 25th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, July 16th, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

The LADN SickLit Book Club meets quarterly to discuss books that are either written by authors who have experience with chronic illness and disability or deal with those themes in their writing. By celebrating SickLit, our aim is to see shared experiences reflected in literature - both the challenges and the triumphs of life with illness. 

On Tuesday, July 14th, 12:30-1:30pm, we will meet to discuss Famesick: A Memoir by Lena Dunham. You are welcome to attend whether you've read the book or not! We will send out a Zoom link to LADN members that week (please email us if you’d like to join LADN!).

The book is available in paperback, audible, and kindle from Amazon or your local bookseller (such as Book Soup) and hopefully at your local library too! If you are unable to find it to lend and cannot afford a copy, please email us, and we'll help you get a copy!

Famesick Description:

“In this rowdy, frank reflection on illness, fame, sex, and everything in between, the remarkable mind behind the hit series Girls and the bestselling author of Not That Kind of Girl asks whether fulfilling her creative ambitions has been worth the pain.

For the last decade, as she’s spent countless hours in doctor’s waiting rooms searching for diagnoses, treatments, and relief, being the owner and operator of Lena Dunham’s body has felt, as she puts it, 'like towing a wrecked car across town at midnight.' It’s not easy dragging a wrecked car anywhere, much less to the Met Gala while sewn into a gold lamé corset. Or to the set of the hit show that you – as a twenty-five-year-old – are writing, directing, producing, and starring in. Or to the White House, the Golden Globes, or your publicist’s office to discuss the latest internet disaster. But Dunham does it – even if it means interminable hospital stays, vomiting in the bathroom when she’s meant to be meeting Oprah, or terrifying those closest to her – because she can no longer tell the difference between fighting to do what she loves and being a servant to her own ambition. All the while, she is holding out for a love that can withstand her personal and public challenges and, more than anything, yearning to feel like herself again – if only she could remember who that self was.

As Dunham takes us through her journey, tracking her rise to fame – from selling the pilot of Girls to the present – in three acts, it becomes clear that the spotlight casts long shadows, distorting the relationships she once held dear and isolating everyone in its glare. When an endless supply of drugs can’t protect you from pain – and begins to control your every move – being famous doesn’t stand a chance against the darker corners of the human experience.

In Famesick, Dunham asks herself what the cost of fulfilling her dreams has really been, and whether it was worth it. What she finds is deeper than physical relief, and more lasting, as she learns to live with what she can’t change and turn her regrets into wisdom that can carry her forward, as she reconnects to what, and who, she loves.”

In honor of July’s Disability Pride Month, LADN co-founders Emily & Sally will be leading an awareness talk at Pasadena’s Santa Catalina Library — the place where the LADN community began! We invite you to attend and share with your friends/family who may want to better understand dysautonomia.

When: Saturday, July 11, 2026, 11:00am-12:00pm

Where: Pasadena’s Santa Catalina Library, 999 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, 91104

About this talk:

Join disability advocates Emily Suñez and Sally Krueger-Wyman for an honest conversation about living with dysautonomia, an invisible disability affecting over 70 million people worldwide. They’ll share their personal experiences with this chronic condition, break down what dysautonomia is, and explore the common barriers to care that patients often experience. Learn how they came to co-found the nonprofit Los Angeles Dysautonomia Network (LADN) – and how communities like it can transform and empower the lives of those with disabilities. Leave with resources to help you or a loved one navigate life with dysautonomia.

There will be a giveaway drawing of two copies of The Healing Journal: Guided Prompts & Inspiration for Life with Illness! 

Join us for a virtual Mindful Movement Workshop on Thursday, July 9th, 2:00-3:00pm, with instructor Lian Norris!

Theme:

This class start with a discussion around the theme: managing mornings with dysautonomia. Lian will lead us in a discussion around this theme for the first 15-20 minutes, and then we will spend the remainder of the hour practicing mindful movement. 

About mindful movement:

The intention of this class is to provide a safe space for people to explore gentle movement, breath work, and mindfulness while in the comfort of their own homes! This class will utilize both a yoga mat (or any cushion/carpet/rug you may have at home!) and chair to provide various adaptations to fit individuals physical needs. Beginners are welcome! 

Optional Donation: 

This workshop is free for LADN members! However, if you are in a position to make a small donation to help cover the instructor fee for this workshop, we would greatly appreciate it! Donations can be made here!

Suggested items to bring to this workshop: (It’s ok if you don’t have everything!)

• Water/beverage as needed

• Yoga mat (or towel/rug/carpet/cushion)

• Yoga blocks (or throw pillows)

• Yoga blanket (or towel)

• Yoga strap (or towel/belt)

• Chair that doesn’t move -- preferably something light, like a folding chair you can move easily

Other tips: It may be beneficial to position your camera so Lian can see your whole body to be able to provide better individual guidance during the practice! (It is also totally fine if you prefer to have your camera off!)

About Lian:
Lian is a Los Angeles based yoga instructor and occupational therapist giving compassionate, inclusive, and holistic care to people of all ages, genders, and physical / cognitive abilities. Lian trained In Boston at Down Under School of Yoga. 

Lian specializes in lifestyle certified sensory enhanced trauma-informed yoga training and specializes in working with people with dysautonomia and related health conditions. Her goal is to meet others where they are in their journey of self-discovery. She is passionate about teaching the nourishing benefits of yoga to be applied on & off the mat!  

Reach Lian at youcanyogala@gmail.com or on her website, www.youcanyogala.com.

Disclaimer: By attending this workshop, you understand and acknowledge that the stretches and movements in this class may cause personal injury or exacerbation of symptoms, and you agree not to hold LADN liable for any harm caused by performing the recommended positions/stretches/movements.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Wednesday, July 8

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Caregiver Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy! 

We welcome all dysautonomia caregivers (parents, spouses, friends, family, etc.) living in California to attend. The caregiver group is a space for open and supportive discussion related to caring for an individual with dysautonomia. We ask that patients please utilize our other offerings instead of attending this group. Patients are welcome at the monthly support group that typically occurs on the 4th Saturday of the month.

Date: Monday, July 6, 2026

Time: 1:00-2:00pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up through the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, July 2nd, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for an informative webinar on Physical Therapy Strategies for Managing Dysautonomia with Ava Cicio, P.T., D.P.T.

Description: 

Physical therapy can be a helpful tool for managing dysautonomia. In this webinar, Ava Cicio, PT, DPT will break down how PT fits into a dysautonomia management plan and give you practical, actionable strategies you can use at home or throughout your day.

We'll cover:
• What physical therapy is and how it can support dysautonomia management
• PT tips and demonstrations for everyday activities
• Common PT protocols for POTS and how to adapt them to your needs
• Special considerations for hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
• Q&A

About Ava Cicio, PT, DPT:

Hello! I’m Ava, originally from the East Coast, currently living in Los Angeles!

I have a passion for working with clients with neurologic disorders. My treatment philosophy is to provide my clients with the tools to regain independence and rediscover joy in their lives. My aim is to understand what success means to my clients, and create a collaborative atmosphere during my treatment sessions. I received my doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Southern California and completed the Schmidt Movement Disorders Physical Therapy Fellowship here at Re+Active. At re+active, I am the FND program director and lead our membership to expand access to educational resources for patients across the country. I have a commitment to holistic care and personalized treatment plans, which I am to reflect in my approach to physical therapy by focusing on providing autonomy and goals to increase quality of life for each patient.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Saturday, June 27th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, June 18th, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

📞 Volunteer Event: Rec List Phone Bank — Help Us Update Our Healthcare Practitioner Recommendation List!

When:Friday, June 12th, 9:30-11:30am (on Zoom)

Description: 

Our provider list is a valuable resource to patients and caregivers navigating dysautonomia and related conditions — but we need your help to update it.

Join us for a virtual phone banking event! Sign on to Zoom, and we'll provide everything you need: instructions, a list of offices to contact, and support along the way. Volunteers will call healthcare offices to find out whether they're accepting new patients, if they knowledgeable/specialized in treating dysautonomia/EDS/MCAS, and which insurance plans they accept.

Your help with these phone calls can really make a difference for other patients trying to find care!

If you want to help but can't attend on June 12th, please reach out us by email: LADN@la-dn.org. Thank you so much!

Join us for a virtual Mindful Movement Workshop on Thursday, June 11th, 2:00-3:00pm, with instructor Lian Norris!

Theme:

This class start with a discussion around the theme: navigating routines. Lian will lead us in a discussion around this theme for the first 15-20 minutes, and then we will spend the remainder of the hour practicing mindful movement. 

About mindful movement:

The intention of this class is to provide a safe space for people to explore gentle movement, breath work, and mindfulness while in the comfort of their own homes! This class will utilize both a yoga mat (or any cushion/carpet/rug you may have at home!) and chair to provide various adaptations to fit individuals physical needs. Beginners are welcome! 

Optional Donation: 

This workshop is free for LADN members! However, if you are in a position to make a small donation to help cover the instructor fee for this workshop, we would greatly appreciate it! Donations can be made here!

Suggested items to bring to this workshop: (It’s ok if you don’t have everything!)

• Water/beverage as needed

• Yoga mat (or towel/rug/carpet/cushion)

• Yoga blocks (or throw pillows)

• Yoga blanket (or towel)

• Yoga strap (or towel/belt)

• Chair that doesn’t move -- preferably something light, like a folding chair you can move easily

Other tips: It may be beneficial to position your camera so Lian can see your whole body to be able to provide better individual guidance during the practice! (It is also totally fine if you prefer to have your camera off!)

About Lian:
Lian is a Los Angeles based yoga instructor and occupational therapist giving compassionate, inclusive, and holistic care to people of all ages, genders, and physical / cognitive abilities. Lian trained In Boston at Down Under School of Yoga. 

Lian specializes in lifestyle certified sensory enhanced trauma-informed yoga training and specializes in working with people with dysautonomia and related health conditions. Her goal is to meet others where they are in their journey of self-discovery. She is passionate about teaching the nourishing benefits of yoga to be applied on & off the mat!  

Reach Lian at youcanyogala@gmail.com or on her website, www.youcanyogala.com.

Disclaimer: By attending this workshop, you understand and acknowledge that the stretches and movements in this class may cause personal injury or exacerbation of symptoms, and you agree not to hold LADN liable for any harm caused by performing the recommended positions/stretches/movements.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Wednesday, June 10th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Ice Cream Social at Yoga-Urt (Glendale)

Let's kick off summer with some delicious fro yo and time with the LADN community!

When: Saturday, June 6th, 3:30-5:30pm

Where: Please meet at Yoga-Urt's Glendale location: 1407 W Kenneth Rd, Glendale 91201

There will be organic, vegan, gluten-free frozen yogurt available for purchase. We'll be hanging out either on the back patio or front tables outdoors. Street parking is available.

Please RSVP below, so that we can look out for you!

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, June 4th, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for LADN's Caregiver Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy! 

We welcome all dysautonomia caregivers (parents, spouses, friends, family, etc.) living in California to attend. The caregiver group is a space for open and supportive discussion related to caring for an individual with dysautonomia. We ask that patients please utilize our other offerings instead of attending this group. Patients are welcome at the monthly support group that typically occurs on the 4th Saturday of the month.

Date: Monday, June 1st, 2025

Time: 1:00-2:00pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up through the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Saturday, May 23rd

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, May 21st, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for a virtual Mindful Movement Workshop on Thursday, May 14th, 2:00-3:00pm, with instructor Lian Norris!

Theme:

This class start with a discussion around the theme: strategies for postural changes throughout practice. Lian will lead us in a discussion around this theme for the first 10-15minutes, and then we will spend the remainder of the hour practicing mindful movement. 

About mindful movement:

The intention of this class is to provide a safe space for people to explore gentle movement, breath work, and mindfulness while in the comfort of their own homes! This class will utilize both a yoga mat (or any cushion/carpet/rug you may have at home!) and chair to provide various adaptations to fit individuals physical needs. Beginners are welcome! 

Optional Donation: 

This workshop is free for LADN members! However, if you are in a position to make a small donation to help cover the instructor fee for this workshop, we would greatly appreciate it! Donations can be made here!

Suggested items to bring to this workshop: (It’s ok if you don’t have everything!)

• Water/beverage as needed

• Yoga mat (or towel/rug/carpet/cushion)

• Yoga blocks (or throw pillows)

• Yoga blanket (or towel)

• Yoga strap (or towel/belt)

• Chair that doesn’t move -- preferably something light, like a folding chair you can move easily

Other tips: It may be beneficial to position your camera so Lian can see your whole body to be able to provide better individual guidance during the practice! (It is also totally fine if you prefer to have your camera off!)

About Lian:
Lian is a Los Angeles based yoga instructor and occupational therapist giving compassionate, inclusive, and holistic care to people of all ages, genders, and physical / cognitive abilities. Lian trained In Boston at Down Under School of Yoga. 

Lian specializes in lifestyle certified sensory enhanced trauma-informed yoga training and specializes in working with people with dysautonomia and related health conditions. Her goal is to meet others where they are in their journey of self-discovery. She is passionate about teaching the nourishing benefits of yoga to be applied on & off the mat!  

Reach Lian at youcanyogala@gmail.com or on her website, www.youcanyogala.com.

Disclaimer: By attending this workshop, you understand and acknowledge that the stretches and movements in this class may cause personal injury or exacerbation of symptoms, and you agree not to hold LADN liable for any harm caused by performing the recommended positions/stretches/movements.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, May 7th, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Wednesday, May 6th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Join us for LADN's Caregiver Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy! 

We welcome all dysautonomia caregivers (parents, spouses, friends, family, etc.) living in California to attend. The caregiver group is a space for open and supportive discussion related to caring for an individual with dysautonomia. We ask that patients please utilize our other offerings instead of attending this group. Patients are welcome at the monthly support group that typically occurs on the 4th Saturday of the month.

Date: Monday, May 4th, 2025

Time: 1:00-2:00pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up through the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Come visit LADN’s booth at the Accessibility Resource Fair!

When: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 - 11:30AM - 3:30PM

Where: Pasadena City Hall Centennial Square

What: We're excited to exhibit at the A.R.F! 2026 Accessibility Resource Fair, hosted by Mobility Service Dogs! This amazing, FREE event is the place to celebrate functional independence and accessibility for all.

Experience a day of adventure, learning, and belonging—featuring a special performance by The Los Angeles Rollettes at 1:00 PM! 💃

Get ready for exciting, hands-on activities:

• 🐕 Meet Service Dog Teams & Pups-in-Training

• 🧗 Conquer the No Limit Wall with Mark Wellman

• 🚲 Try Hand-Pedal Tricycles and get Moving with Physical Therapists

• 🎨 Join Interactive Art Experiences for everyone

• 🏡 Explore Innovative Accessible Spaces

• 🍔 Enjoy Eats from Top Local Food Trucks Fat Boys and Sure Good Soft Serve Ice Cream

Workshops & Resources:

• FEMA & MobilityDog Workshop: EVACUATION READINESS & SAFETY FOR ALL

• 💡 Learn from Pushrim Foundation, Independence At Home SCAN Over 55, and more

• 🎙 Hear from Commissioners from LA County and Pasadena

• 📚 Explore resource tables with engaging, one-on-one conversations Easterseals, Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Hospital, MobilityDog’s Service Dogs, SCRL, Southern California Gas Company, and so much more…

Join us for our monthly support group for dysautonomia patients living in California. Our support group provides a space for patients to share their experiences related to dysautonomia, as well as an opportunity to provide and receive support from others living with this condition. This meeting will take place in a virtual format via Zoom.

Date: Saturday, April 25th

Time: 1:00-2:00pm

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Please sign up at the link below. Please email us with any questions at LADN@la-dn.org.

Support Group Disclaimer:

Please note this is a patient-run support group. It is not facilitated by a licensed medical or mental health professional. Talk with your doctor before implementing any advice from the group.

Save the date! LADN’s 2026 Unity in Community fundraiser event is Sunday, April 19th, 12-3pm in Pasadena!

Come celebrate connection, empowerment, and hope at Unity in Community, Los Angeles Dysautonomia Network's annual fundraising event that brings together supporters, patients, and caregivers in support of LADN’s life-changing work for Californians affected by dysautonomia. Last year was an unforgettable gathering, and this year will be even more special!

🌟 Highlights include 🌟

• Silent Auction: Bid on incredible items donated by local businesses and artisans. Our auction will open online on April 12th!

• Raffle: Try your luck at winning a variety of fun items and experiences!

• Guest Speakers: Inspiring talks from advocates, patients, medical experts, and community supporters.

• Entertainment for the Whole Family: Enjoy live music, face painting, tarot readings, kids' activities, & more!

• Tasty Burgers & Beverages: Savor delicious food from Pie 'n Burger's food truck! (Thank you Pie 'n Burger for donating 100% of sales to LADN!)

• LADN Canvas Tote Swag Bags are available for purchase with your ticket or at the event! 

• LADN Merch will be for sale at the event!

Together, we can ensure that those living with dysautonomia have the support and resources they need to best manage their health. Your presence supports LADN’s mission to provide community, education, and financial support to Californians impacted by this challenging and disabling health condition. The money raised helps to sustain LADN's operating costs associated with it's many programs, including support groups, patient education programs, wellness workshops, SickLit book club, LADN Links peer support program, and healthcare access grants to help low-income patients with medical expenses.

Let’s make April 19th an afternoon of hope, joy, and unity! Reserve your free tickets now! We can't wait to see you there!

Ways to get involved:

• Interested in sponsoring our event? View our sponsorship deck here!

• Interested in donating items to our auction & raffle? Shoot us an email!

• Interested in volunteering? Shoot us an email!

Event Accessibility: 

While we provide a brief overview of our event accessibility below, please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions! We are committed to making this event accessible and are happy to work with guests to make attendance a success.

Event Access: Entrance is through a large driveway with a nearly flat slope and no steps to the festivities. Attendees are welcome to explore the gardens, which are only accessible via one to three steps depending on the direction. 

Restrooms: There will be two restroom options - an ADA accessible porta potty with hand-pump hand-washing station or a non-porta potty restroom that is accessible via a walk with a few steps through the garden or no steps via the street (however the room is not large enough to accommodate a wheelchair).

Parking: There is plenty of street parking available. If parking accessibility is a concern, please contact us in advance, and we will save you a parking spot close to the entrance.

Seating & Shade: The event is outside, and there will be a large number of seats available in shade provided by a large tent. We will also have a cooling section in the shade with seats, water, and ice.

Noise: Live music will be performed from approximately 12:20-1 and 2:10-2:50. We have chosen music with a softer sound with sensory issues in mind. It will not be amplified. Speeches will be reasonably amplified via microphone from about 1-1:40. We will be in a large outdoor space, so there should be quieter areas available as well.

Food: We are very pleased to have the Pie ‘N Burger food truck available! You can view their menu here. Their veggie patty is gluten-free and can be ordered with a lettuce wrap instead of a bun. If you are unable to enjoy Pie ‘N Burger’s offerings due to dietary needs, you may bring your own lunch.

Immunity: We ask that anyone experiencing contagious symptoms please refrain from attending our event, especially given the health of our LADN community. Thank you. The event is outside. Masks are not required but are available for anyone who requests them.

Join us for LADN's Teen Support Group facilitated by clinical psychologist Dr. Samantha Levy!  We welcome all teens (13-19) with dysautonomia who live in California to attend this group.

Date: Thursday, April 16th, 2025

Time: 4:15-5:15pm 

Location: Zoom

Sign up: Sign-ups are required for this meeting - please click the button below. If you have any questions, please email us at LADN@la-dn.org.

About Dr. Samantha Levy:

Samantha Levy, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist who received her Ph.D. from Georgia State University in the Child and Family specialty track. During her clinical, child centered internship at UCLA, she became involved with the Pediatric Pain Program. Subsequently, she obtained her postdoctoral training there. Depending on the specific situation, Dr. Levy works either with whole families, individual children/teens/young adults, or parents. She employs an array of psychological orientations (e.g. CBT, play therapy, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, ACT, IFS), to help the children/teens with their pain and any accompanying emotional issues. She helps the families understand the connection between the physical pain and emotional difficulties (mind/body connection). She teaches parenting skills and helps parents facilitate their child’s difficult, courageous journey back to functioning more fully in the world again. Dr. Levy runs multiple parent groups at the nonprofit Creative Healing for Youth in Pain (CHYP). She is also a contributor to the CHYP parent blog.

Join us for a virtual Mindful Movement Workshop on Thursday, April 9th, 2:00-3:00pm, with instructor Lian Norris!

About this workshop:

Lian will be teaching a 1 hr “mindful movement” class for the LADN community! The intention of this class is to provide a safe space for people to explore gentle movement, breath work, and mindfulness while in the comfort of their own homes! This class will utilize both a yoga mat (or any cushion/carpet/rug you may have at home!) and chair to provide various adaptations to fit individuals physical needs. Beginners are welcome! 

Optional Donation: 

This workshop is free for LADN members! However, if you are in a position to make a small donation to help cover the instructor fee for this workshop, we would greatly appreciate it! Donations can be made here!

Suggested items to bring to this workshop: (It’s ok if you don’t have everything!)

• Water/beverage as needed

• Yoga mat (or towel/rug/carpet/cushion)

• Yoga blocks (or throw pillows)

• Yoga blanket (or towel)

• Yoga strap (or towel/belt)

• Chair that doesn’t move -- preferably something light, like a folding chair you can move easily

Other tips: It may be beneficial to position your camera so Lian can see your whole body to be able to provide better individual guidance during the practice! (It is also totally fine if you prefer to have your camera off!)

About Lian:
Lian is a Los Angeles based yoga instructor and occupational therapist giving compassionate, inclusive, and holistic care to people of all ages, genders, and physical / cognitive abilities. Lian trained In Boston at Down Under School of Yoga. 

Lian specializes in lifestyle certified sensory enhanced trauma-informed yoga training and specializes in working with people with dysautonomia and related health conditions. Her goal is to meet others where they are in their journey of self-discovery. She is passionate about teaching the nourishing benefits of yoga to be applied on & off the mat!  

Reach Lian at youcanyogala@gmail.com or on her website, www.youcanyogala.com.

Disclaimer: By attending this workshop, you understand and acknowledge that the stretches and movements in this class may cause personal injury or exacerbation of symptoms, and you agree not to hold LADN liable for any harm caused by performing the recommended positions/stretches/movements.