Therapeutic Art Techniques: Why Utilize Art in Counseling?
“Art opens the closets, airs out the cellars and attics.
It brings healing.”
– Julia Cameron
As an artist I have experienced the healing power found in the process of making art.
The artistic process encourages psychological growth and healing.Please note that I am a licensed psychotherapist. I am not a registered art therapist.
If in the course of individual or group therapy an art modality in which I am trained is deemed appropriate I may employ such as a therapeutic tool. However, If in the course of therapy you would be better served by an ATR (registered art therapist) you will be referred to such.
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/44674284/Arts-based-practice-in-psychosocial-rehabilitation-an-overview
(As an artist I lead workshops and retreats that include both artistic and therapeutic elements. These are led from the perspective of an artist and are offered as wellness activities to promote emotional health. I offer art-making in a group setting. Workshops and retreats are NOT the same as individual and group psychotherapy. You can contact me for more information regarding workshops or retreats. My work can be seen here at facebook. )
Individual Counseling:
- Specializing in Child and Adolescent
Family Counseling:
- Special Needs Families (Autism Spectrum & developmentally challenged)
Group Counseling:
- Childhood Depression
- Teen Depression
- Social Skills through Art
- Monthly Expressive Art Group for Therapists
- Women’s Groups
- LGBT friendly
- Creative therapy with children experiencing learning difficulties including ASD, ADHD, Depression. Developing and enhancing communication skillsSocial skills groups for developmentally disabled adults and adults in societal transitions using art as a creative modality
Areas of Expertise:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-Esteem
- Creativity blocks
- Women’s issues & life transitions
- Trauma
- Attention Deficit Disorder & Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bullying, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
- TBI: Traumatic Brain Injury
- Anger Management: DHHS referrals including juvenile first offenders
- Trauma & Societal Reintegration: Probationary parolees, Homeless, Employment First, DVR
Some Thoughts on Expertise & Services
A certified K-12 art teacher I have taught in public and private schools: all ages including a substance abuse art group at an alternative high school. I am comfortable working with school counselors, teachers, school officials and the DHHS system.
I am adept at drawing children out and offering encouragement to them.
I am experienced in providing guidance to the under-achiever, gifted & talented, Autism Spectrum, severe-profound disabilities, and down-syndrome providing individual and group psychotherapy.
One of my passions is to include developmentally challenged individuals in the community narrative via art. I can provide social skills groups in this area.
I have previously provided the homeless community art groups and rehabilitative counseling.