I went to the Adler Graduate School and graduated in February 2014 with a masters in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy.
- Why did you want to become an art therapist and/or why are you passionate about art therapy?
I became an art therapist to help others discover the healing power of art making and the art process. I am passionate about art therapy because I myself, have benefited from using the art process to express and process grief and loss. I truly believe that through the creative process we can learn so much about ourselves. I love that you do not have to be an artist to learn or benefit from art therapy. It takes courage to be imperfect and I am passionate about how art therapy teaches and embraces us in that.
- Where do you work and what client population do you work with?
I currently work in private practice at David Hoy and Associates. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, families and adults experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties. I meet individuals needs by utilizing a comprehensive approach integrating art, play and talk therapy in my work. I support individuals in their process of understanding themselves and their world around them. In addition to individual therapy, I also do family therapy to strengthen interactions and build relationships. I work with those who have or experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, loss, family conflict, eating disorders, difficult relationships, mood disorders and emotional dysregulation among other issues.
- Have you ever served as an MNATA volunteer, and if so, in what capacity (e.g., committee service, board of directors)?
I have served as a MNATA volunteer by working on the MNATA website doing maintenance and making it user friendly and accessible.
- How have you benefited from being a member of MNATA (and/or please explain why you value your membership with MNATA).
I value my membership because it represents a commitment to support the growth and development of a profession I feel so passionate about. I value it because it allows me to be connected to a community of like minded people working towards one goal of growing awareness of the healing power of the arts. I have benefitted from the networking opportunities, ability to engage in social interest activities and being part of a committed, passionate and creative community!
- In what ways have you contributed to the art therapy community?
I have contributed to the art therapy community by being a part of MNATA and supporting the website maintenance and development. I have contributed by working in the field and by educating other mental health providers on the benefit and use of art therapy in treatment.