In this episode of the VSC Podcast, host Olivia Oropeza introduces a new program that VSC has launched in partnership with Orlando Ballet. This initiative uses the power of movement and dance to promote healing, empowerment and reconnection for survivors of violence, abuse and trauma. Guests interviewed include Co-creators Brandi Godbee and Shane Bland and Emotions in Motion participant Renzo.
What Is Emotions in Motion?
Emotions in Motion is a healing-through-movement program that uses guided choreography and expressive dance to help survivors of violence, abuse, and trauma explore and process emotions in a safe, supportive environment. Participants are invited to connect with their bodies, emotions, and others through structured movement experiences — no prior dance experience required.
The program was thoughtfully developed as a partnership between VSC and the Orlando Ballet’s Community Enrichment Division. It brings together the therapeutic expertise of VSC and the creative power of movement and performance art typically associated with ballet.
Voices From the Podcast
On the episode, Brandi Godbee — Lead Therapist and Clinical Manager at VSC — and Shane Bland — Head of Community Enrichment at Orlando Ballet — share their vision for the program:
Brandi discusses the ways trauma can get stored in the body and how movement offers survivors a unique avenue for expression that words alone sometimes can’t reach.
Shane brings the artistic perspective, describing how choreography and physical expression can facilitate emotional release, support reconnection with oneself, and build community among participants.
They are joined by Renzo, a participant in Emotions in Motion, who offers powerful firsthand insight into what the experience has meant on their healing journey. Hearing directly from someone who has taken part in the program helps illustrate the transformative impact that structured creative movement can have for survivors.
Why Movement Matters in Healing
Traditional therapy is invaluable — but grief, trauma, and emotional memories don’t live only in thoughts or words. They’re also rooted in body sensations, tension, posture, and instinctive reactions. Programs like Emotions in Motion allow participants to:
* Reclaim agency within their bodies
* Release stored stress in a non-verbal, embodied way
* Build confidence through intentional movement
* Connect with peers who understand similar experiences
* Reframe physical expression as a source of strength rather than fear
For many survivors, movement becomes a language of its own — one that helps process past harm while also fostering joy, resilience, and self-trust.
A Space Where Healing Meets Art
One of the most compelling elements of Emotions in Motion is that it doesn’t require participants to be dancers — it simply invites them to move with intention, presence, and community. This accessibility makes the program a unique addition to VSC’s continuum of trauma-informed healing practices, blending clinical insight with artistic expression.
As Brandi and Shane remind listeners, there’s no one “right” way to heal — whether someone uses words, movement, art, or all of the above, what matters most is creating safe spaces for expression and connection.
Listen & Learn More
If you haven’t already, listen to this deeply moving episode of the VSC Podcast — it’s a beautiful example of how healing can happen in unexpected, embodied ways. Whether you’re a survivor yourself, a supporter of someone in healing, or simply interested in creative approaches to wellness, Emotions in Motion offers rich insight and inspiration.
Brandi Godbee
Brandi Godbee, Lead Therapist/Clinical Manager at Victim Service Center, Co-creator of Emotions in Motion – Brandi is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor. Education: Master’s degree with Honors in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College and a Bachelor’s degree in English. Trained in EMDR & DBT.
Shane Bland
Shane Bland, Head of Community Enrichment at Orlando Ballet and Co-creator of Emotions in Motions – As head of Orlando Ballet’s Community Enrichment Division, Shane is a dynamic theater artist with an accomplished career spanning Broadway, national tours, regional theater, television, choreography, and directing. His Broadway credits include Bombay Dreams, Show Boat (Harold Prince), and Disney’s The Lion King. In Orlando, Shane has starred in Ain’t Misbehavin’, Cabaret (as the Emcee at Orlando Shakes), and Beauty and the Beast (as The Beast at the Garden Theatre). His choreography credits include Frozen Jr., Matilda (Broadway World Nominee), and Hairspray. Shane also serves as an adjudicator for the Applause Awards, supporting young performers across the region.
