It is J’s first visit to me. He is 8 years old and so adorable. He was referred to me by the mom of a former child/client. His mom sat in an adjacent room providing a sense of both privacy (mom is in the other room) and security (a child can leave my drawing table and go check in with mom at any time during our session.) I like to start work with new clients, children especially, by doing a couple of assessments. I use the HTP (House Tree Person), the PPAT (Person Picking an Apple from a … [Read more...] about Children and Art Therapy: Divorce
art therapy
Art Therapy and Addiciton
Drinking Me/ Sober Me collage Getting clean and sober is more than detox and support. Patients learn new coping skills and address family of origin issues, among other things. Perhaps most importantly, patients are introduced to the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and work the first few steps. Completing all Twelve Steps is the work of a lifetime; treatment focuses on the first three. Most important for a solid foundation is the first step – … [Read more...] about Art Therapy and Addiciton
Totem Animals and Art Therapy
From time to time in my groups I like to present the Native American concept of the Totem Animal. This is similar to our idea of the “guardian angel” and is typically a non-threatening way to approach spirituality. It is the universe/god/source at work – watching over each of us, benevolent, providing us with what we need each step of the way. It can be a very powerful experience. I have seen a lot of totem animals over the years; foxes, wolves, deer, rabbits and bears. The qualities they … [Read more...] about Totem Animals and Art Therapy
Breathing Pattern: Art Therapy and Eating Disorders
I get excited when my Vera Bradley catalog comes. I don’t love the preppy aesthetic and have no need for a monogrammed tennis racquet cover. But still I do love my Vera Bradley catalog. The patterns. The palette. The combination of complementary patterns and great color mixes inspires me. This week it led me to an art therapy directive using “pattern” as both a literal art project and a therapeutic metaphor. One of my favorite ones is here for you to see.... Breathing Pattern sharpie on … [Read more...] about Breathing Pattern: Art Therapy and Eating Disorders