I am a Psychotherapist, Teen–Young Adult–Parent Educator, Workshop Facilitator, and Self-Defense Instructor.
Self-Defense Instructor for Women, Girls, and Female-Identified students
I have been teaching self-defense for women, girls, and female identified people since 1990. I hold a black belt in Jujutsu and a brown belt in Judo. I am a psychotherapist (LMSW) and specialize in treating survivors of violence and have also treated those who commit violence. I understand the dynamics of sexual assault and other types of violence and work to empower students physically, psychologically, and emotionally to say “NO!” to attacks of all types and “YES!” to a more empowered life.
Heidi Sproull
““This is a great class to take – not just to learn to protect yourself, but to find your inner strength.””
My preferred format for self-defense instruction is a 12-hour course taught over four three-hour classes. I also can present shorter workshops to suit the needs of a group.
““Heidi is an amazing instructor that teaches you how to stay more safe in different situations and how to stand up for yourself.””
This class will consist of three areas of focus with the following three goals in mind. It is appropriate for all women, girls and female-identified people ages 12 and older. If a prospective student is under 12, talk to me about them and we can discuss the content in order for you to decide if they are ready for this type of class.
Mental Preparedness: We discuss and role play the types of scenarios that put people most at risk for sexual assault and other violence. We work through hesitation and embarrassment and strive to increase assertiveness, self confidence and a sense of personal power.
Verbal Skills: Participants learn assertive verbal techniques geared towards de-escalating dangerous or uncomfortable situations. We work vocally to develop a strong voice and assertive, defensive yell.
Physical Defensive Skills: Students learn and practice physical skills that are selected to be used by a smaller, less strong person towards a larger, stronger attacker. The skills you will learn have been proven over years of instruction to be effective in attacks, as well as easy to learn and remember.
““You will feel so strong and badass, like you’re radiating ‘don’t f-ing touch me or try me’ vibes.””
Reviews & Evaluations from students:
“I would highly recommend this class to anyone I know.”
“I have already told many women about this class – telling them about the statistics and that there are things they can do to protect themselves.”
“In 12 hours you can learn to take control & power over your body, safety, life!”
“Everyone needs to take this class! I find the discussions and concepts especially helpful and important.”
“You learn how to be powerful!”
“This class is priceless! It’s fun and could save your life. Why wouldn’t you!?”
“This class is an amazingly empowering experience that you will never forget.”
“This class is an extremely welcoming environment full of encouragement and power.”
“It is life changing and helps empowered women empower women.”
“This class will make you see how powerful you already are.”
“You learn essential self-defense skills that every woman and girl should know.”
“Heidi will show you that you ALREADY have the power & strength to defend yourself.”
“What made me most proud of myself was breaking the board because I felt really strong and empowered.”
“Take this class – you’ll become super powerful! Thank you Heidi! You are breaking cultural myths and precepts.”
“Take this class. Do it for yourself, bring your daughter/mom/friend. It’s useful and important!”
I will gladly answer any questions you might have about content, teaching style etc. before you schedule me for a class.
Please use the CONTACT ME button below and I will reply within one business day.