What is Messy Hearts Circle?
Messy Hearts Circle is a small-group sharing experience I host and facilitate, both in-person and online, for people navigating life’s many dualities—between cultures, expectations, identities, and different versions of themselves.
It’s structured, confidential, and guided by clear agreements that prioritize psychological safety, consent, respect, and care.
What happens in a circle?
Circles follow a simple structure:
• Guided prompts tied to a theme (reflection can be silent, written, or spoken)
• Gentle connection / communication exercises
• Sharing in turns (one person at a time, with no cross-talk)
• Closing prompts to help you leave grounded and clear
Do I have to share?
No. Sharing is always voluntary—you can pass at any point. Listening is full participation.
That said, this is a sharing-based experience. The circle works because people do choose to share, and the room comes alive when people speak from their own experience. I’ll never force anyone, but I will encourage you to share something when you’re ready—even if it’s just one sentence.
If you truly don’t want to share anything at all, it might not be the right fit—and that’s totally okay.
Is this therapy, coaching, or a support group?
No. There’s no fixing, diagnosing, or advice-giving. This is not therapy or life coaching.
And while it can feel supportive, it’s not continuous support. Each circle has a different theme and ends after about two hours. You can attend as many or as few circles as you want, and you’ll likely meet different people each time.
What if I’m shy or not good with words?
You’re not expected to be eloquent. Some people speak briefly, some speak more, some mostly listen. The structure helps because you’re not trying to perform or compete, you get a prompt, you can take a moment, and you can share briefly, or pass.
For some people, this can also be a gentle way to practice speaking in a small, respectful group.
Will it be heavy?
It can get real, but it’s not doom-and-gloom. It’s also not a space for trauma dumping.
We use lighter prompts and creative exercises too, so the room can feel warm, human, and genuinely enjoyable. You’re not coming to be “fixed”, you’re coming to feel more connected and less alone.
Is it debate or group discussion?
Not really. It’s not debate, and it’s not everyone talking at once.
We share one at a time with no cross-talk, no interrupting, no jumping in with your own similar story, and no advice. That structure creates a rare experience: being fully listened to, and listening without performing.
After the circle ends, you’re welcome to stay and chat informally (in-person circles).
Who is it for?
It’s especially for people living between cultures, identities, or expectations.
While Messy Hearts Circle is rooted in Middle Eastern / SWANA diasporic nuance, it’s open to anyone who resonates and can respect the agreements. The space is secular, culturally aware, and explicitly queer-affirming.
What can I get out of it?
People often leave with something quiet, steady, and surprisingly practical:
• Feeling less alone and more understood
• More clarity about what’s real for them right now
• Language for things they haven’t been able to name
• A calmer, more grounded internal state
• A sense of connection to themselves and to others
You’re also getting a container: clear agreements, thoughtful prompts, gentle facilitation, and a structured format that keeps the space grounded and respectful.
Where are in-person circles held?
In-person circles are currently hosted at my home in Brooklyn. The exact address is shared after you register.
Are there online circles too?
Soon. Online circles will follow the same agreements and structure, adapted for Zoom.
What’s the group size?
In-person circles are typically 4–8 people.
How long is a circle?
About two hours.
What should I bring?
Just yourself. If you like, bring:
• A notebook and pen (optional)
• A water bottle (optional)
Tea/snacks may be available at in-person circles, depending on the night.
Can I come if I’m late?
Try to arrive on time so we can set agreements and begin together. If you expect to be late, it’s best to reach out ahead of time.
What are the confidentiality expectations?
What’s shared in the circle stays in the circle. People can share their own experience after, but not identify or repeat someone else’s story.
Note: confidentiality is a shared agreement, not a legal contract.
Is Messy Hearts Circle accessible?
If you have access needs (mobility, seating, sensory, etc.), reach out before registering and I’ll tell you what I can accommodate.
Is there an age range?
Most attendees tend to be adults in a wide range, but all participants must be 18+.
What’s the cancellation/refund policy?
We understand that life happens, and we’ll always do our best to accommodate you.
While we can’t offer refunds, we may be able to transfer your spot to a future circle, depending on availability.
Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the event are not eligible for transfer.
How do I sign up?
• Navigate to the Attend a Circle page and check the available circle dates
• Choose one that suits you and sign up using the registration form
• Then follow the payment instructions and sign the agreements form to complete your registration