Introverts are doing ok with the corona virus quarantine. That is unless their family won’t leave them alone; insisting they play Scrabble or spend “quality time.” They’ve been preparing for this their whole lives! Extroverts however, are experiencing a different kind of quarantine…isolated, lonely, depressed and even existential. Most of my extroverted clients have been drawing things like cages, prisons and the ball-n-chain to express their sense of being trapped by quarantine. The introverts … [Read more...] about Quarantine
codependents
Art Therapy and Metaphysics
This client came in to her regular session with physical complaints - both shoulders debilitated in two ways. Both ached enough to interfere with work, chores and even sleep. She is under the care of a medical doctor for the underlying torn rotator cuff and the old, knotted muscle and is making plans for surgery. This is art therapy AND the medical model in collaboration. It is important to address “disease” on all levels. We thought it a good idea to take a look at the metaphysical causes of … [Read more...] about Art Therapy and Metaphysics
Acting Out Sexually
This bold drawing in four parts tells the story. Seeking OUTSIDE oneself for validation, love and esteem is the set up for addiction. How do you know it’s addiction? Because it fuels or feeds SELF HATE. That is the root of all addiction; how we hate ourselves and teach others to hate us too. In the case of this particular oil pastel drawing we see the addiction cycle acted out as relationship addiction complicated by body image stuff. Feeling alone, fat like Jabba the Hutt, depressed and … [Read more...] about Acting Out Sexually
Boundaries
BOUNDARIES At the most basic level, boundaries describe an individual’s “close comfort” zone. Where “I” end and “you” begin. Personal space, skin, energy field, mind your own business. A healthy person’s boundaries are flexible and vary from intimate friend to casual acquaintance to total stranger. Boundaries are for protection and esteem and individuation. Healthy boundaries are empowering and encourage self-reliance and responsibility. Healthy parenting looks a lot like a good Al Anon – … [Read more...] about Boundaries