About Us
Who Are We:
We are a 501-3c nonprofit constructed from the vision of two high school students. To continue the “Colors of Mind” chain, Avni Balakrishnan has introduced dance as a second alternative, which was established in 2023. It is our goal to enhance the awareness of mental health in children by providing them with easy access to dance as a therapeutic experience.
Our Story
My name is Avni Balakrishnan, and I am a high school student in the class of 2025. The impact of COVID-19 in 2020 was undeniably profound, affecting us all mentally, physically, and emotionally. As an extroverted individual, I found this period especially challenging, as I rely on social interaction to manage stress, sadness, and feelings of overwhelm. The isolation of quarantine left me feeling disconnected and unhappy.
However, I was determined not to let this setback define me. Having been a dancer for many years prior to the pandemic, I turned to dance as a means of coping. I began moving in my room, hoping it would help, and quickly noticed a significant improvement in my mood. Dance allowed me to release pent-up emotions and find a sense of emotional relief.
Motivated by my own experience, I wanted to help others who were struggling in similar ways. I realized that for many, verbal expression can be difficult, and I wanted to offer an alternative through physical expression. This inspired me to expand Colors of Mind, creating a second initiative within the nonprofit to incorporate dance as a tool for emotional healing.
I now work alongside licensed dance/movement therapist Wakelyn Malitz to offer dance therapy to children and teenagers. Together, we aim to bring positive change to the Austin community, providing a unique avenue for self-expression and mental wellness.
Info
Given that our organization is dedicated to reaching as many children as possible, we aim to provide therapeutic dance classes rather than traditional "dance therapy sessions." We believe this approach is more accessible and appealing, especially for those seeking a positive distraction rather than a formal therapeutic experience. While traditional therapy can sometimes feel intimidating, our sessions offer a relaxed, open environment where children can engage freely without the pressure to confront difficult issues directly.
To ensure the highest level of professionalism and expertise, we have partnered with Wakelyn Malitz, a licensed and board-certified dance/movement therapist with a master’s degree in somatic counseling. Wakelyn’s credentials guarantee that our programs are led by a highly qualified professional, ensuring that children benefit from a therapeutic experience delivered with care and expertise. Our goal is to create a positive, enriching experience for children, and we have carefully selected the best-qualified professional to help make that vision a reality.
Where we are Located
Our dance/movement sessions take place at the Müv Dance & Fitness studio within The Crossover sports complex.
1717 Scottsdale Dr Leander, TX 78641