Solvang Senior Center will open its fall Health and Wellbeing Lecture Series with a talk titled Thriving: Boost Your Brain Health for the Holidays, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20 at the center, 1745 Mission Drive, #A.

The lecture will be hosted by Kady Fleckenstein, associate marriage family therapist from Santa Ynez Valley Therapy.

“The goal is no longer to just make it through the holiday season,” Fleckenstein said. “Learning how to identify what is happening to your brain and nervous system can empower you to take control over the situation.

“Perhaps you need to set new boundaries with family, or will be away from family this year and need a brain boost to find joy on your own. No matter what your situation, understanding the brain is the first step towards change at any age.”

“We are thrilled with the turnout of our first two lectures this past September and October and look forward to having Kady share helpful tips for the holidays right before Thanksgiving,” said Ellen Albertoni, the senior center’s executive director. “We all know how overwhelming the holidays can be, even when we’re having fun.”

A Santa Ynez Valley resident for 16 years, Fleckenstein opened her Solvang-based private therapy practice Santa Ynez Valley Therapy in January. Under the supervision of Nicole Botaitis, Fleckenstein works with couples, families, adults and teens in-person and online.

“Clients often see me to help navigate relationships, improve communication and intimacy, reduce anxiety, cope with chronic pain/illness, and learn new parenting skills,” she said.

Advance reservations for the talk are recommended by emailing ssctr@verizon.net or calling 805-688-3793.

For a list of the senior center’s services, events, and more information visit www.solvangseniorcenter.org.