Expressive Arts

 

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What is Expressive Arts Therapy?
 

Expressive Arts Therapy can include visual arts, movement, music, and writing. It supports the symbolic expression of our thoughts and emotions. This approach can help to process unresolved feelings and deepen self-awareness. There are two primary components to Expressive Arts Therapy.  First is the creative expression, guided by a prompt or expressive modality. Second is reflection on the creative work, reflection on the process of supportive witnessing, and exploring the inner experiences that emerge related to the creative process.

I offer Expressive Arts Therapy for groups and individuals. Expressive Arts can be a powerful resource for transformation, self-connection, and working through life transitions. My personal background as an artist and mindfulness coach contribute to my approach.

 

 
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Person-Centered Approach

My expressive arts training is based upon the Person-Centered Approach, which focuses upon personal meaning and process, rather than using art therapy as a diagnostic tool. I have in-depth training and experience in the following areas:

  • Art Therapy: Visual arts, Mixed-Media

  • Intuitive Painting

  • Authentic Movement

  • Integration of writing and poetry

  • Jungian Active Imagination Techniques

Who It Can Help

Anyone seeking seeking change or personal growth can benefit from this practice.
No artistic skill or prior experience is needed. Expressive Arts Therapy is often used in conjunction with psychotherapy and integrated into treatment for:

  • Grief and loss

  • Life transitions, adjustment challenges

  • Self-esteem

  • Body dysmorphia/body image

  • ADD/ADHD

  • Traumatic experience

  • Anxiety and stress

  • Creative blocks

  • Inner critic, overcoming perfectionism

Benefits of Expressive Arts Therapy

Exploration of personal meaning and sense of purpose
-Self-expression and communication
-Healthy Coping Skills
-Processing of difficult or painful experience through symbolic expression

  • Focus and directed attention toward internal processes

  • Self-understanding and personal insight

  • Mindfulness and present moment awareness

  • Empowerment, confidence, self-esteem

  • Stress reduction, relaxation, release of tension

  • Enhanced creativity, imagination, capacity to shift perspective