I offer one-on-one art therapy sessions online & groups in-person (Campbell River/ƛəmataxʷ, BC), for youth and adults.
Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy, is a collaborative process between client, art therapist, and the creative process. It can be beneficial to anyone as we all have creative capacity, regardless of our perceived artistic skill. Art making within the caring, non-judgmental space of a therapeutic session invites whatever is present in our mind and body to move through us within the creative process and to be seen in art in front of us. We can then look at what’s going on with new and different perspectives, and with greater compassion and understanding. The experience can effect lasting changes in the mind and body, and give us more awareness and choice in how we respond to and engage with life. Creating art in this way can help regulate the nervous system, release feel-good hormones, and improve brain and body connection, while producing a sense of accomplishment, authenticity, and integration. By befriending and exercising our creativity in therapeutic art-making we foster creativity in life-living. In making art, we make something that didn't exist before. We surprise ourselves. Through creative play, we can find a new way.
As an art therapist, I strive to embody an aspirational ethic, focusing on wellness, strength, resource-building, and connection. I encourage a focus on curiosity over criticism and play over perfection. The ever-evolving lens through which I practice art therapy is influenced by interpersonal neurobiology, transpersonal interconnectivity, integrated somatic embodiment, feminist theory, trauma theory, and compassionate mindfulness. All of this under the umbrella of a culturally sensitive, person-centred approach while embracing the fundamental healing and enlivening role of play, imagination, and creativity.
I hold a Bachelor of Design Degree with Distinction from U of A and a Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy from VATI. My art therapy experience ranges from youth to elders, with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, 2SLGBTQIA+, and life transitions, with a particular focus on grief and loss. As an RTC with ACCT, reimbursement through third-party insurance and benefits providers may be available.
Art therapy and creative exploration has been and continues to be transformative in my own life. After several careers, including architectural design, facilities planning, lodge management, and teaching, nothing has come close to the authenticity I feel when practicing art therapy with clients.
I welcome you to contact me for a complimentary 20 minute consultation to explore if we're a good therapeutic fit.
