Surya Govender, RTC #3487

The Canadian Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as combining "creative process and psychotherapy, facilitating self-exploration and understanding. Using imagery, colour and shape as part of this creative therapeutic process, thoughts and feelings can be expressed that would otherwise be difficult to articulate.".

In practice, art therapy can include a whole lot of different things, from doodling while we talk to making dolls together. We focus on the process, not the product and there is no artistic skill required to participate.

As required in Canada, I have a Master's level Diploma in art therapy. I graduated from the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute. I also have a Master's degree in urban social geography from the London School of Economics, which informs my understand of community and social relationships. I trained in creative writing at Simon Fraser University and as a digital storytelling facilitator at the Centre for Digital Storytelling)

My art therapy education included over 700 hours of supervised clinical practicum hours in a number of settings, including WISH drop-in centre, grief groups and one-one-one sessions.

I am also continuing my education in trauma therapy through PESI UK as I work towards a Complex Trauma Certification.

Harm reduction is a term that originated in addiction treatment and sex work. In a broad way, it means that health is defined by each person for themselves, and health care providers are asked to work within that definition, letting go of judgement and values around abstinence. The intention is to reduce the harm of behaviours or circumstances that might compromise your ability to heal and grow in the way that feels best for you.

For me, harm reduction principles strongly inform my practice in all areas. I don't begin with an idea about what health looks like for you - you are invited to explore that for yourself. This might apply to substance use, but it may also apply to any of the choices you make about your behaviours and actions. My goal is to support you to live your healthiest life.