Art Therapy
Art therapy practice requires knowledge of visual art and the creative process, as well as human development, psychology, and counseling theories.
The American Art Therapy Association explains that “Art therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience”.
Art-making and expressing oneself artistically encourages a right-brain approach to understanding oneself and life. People tap into their more creative, imaginative sides by using colors, lines, shapes, symbols, and textures. When artistic expression is coupled with reflection, combining right-brain imagination with left-brain logic and analysis can increase the capacity for breakthrough ideas, insights, and new perspectives.
Art Facilitation, my blend
I blend fine art, art therapy, and creativity development into meaningful, creative structures. I develop and facilitate original, engaging, and meaningful art-making opportunities.
Through extensive training and experience working with a range of materials and techniques, I have a deep familiarity with the qualities of diverse materials and artistic processes. I am a lifelong learner, continually tinkering and pursuing opportunities to learn and create in new ways.
Participants are invited to explore content, themes, and metaphors through thoughtfully designed, approachable creative processes. Within the structure, I leave room for personal aesthetic decision-making and for participants to reflect on their creative process, imagery, and ideas. Each experience, structured to elicit exploration, inquiry, and fun, incorporates principles of fine art.