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What is Art Therapy?Art Therapy combines visual art and psychotherapy in a creative process using the created image as a foundation for self-exploration and understanding. Thoughts and feelings often reach expression in images rather than words. Through the use of art therapy, feelings and inner conflicts can be projected into visual form. In the creative act, conflict is re-experienced, resolved and integrated. - The B.C. Art Therapy Association  Karen Wallace Podcast from the Voodoo Lounge. Talking about Art Therapy, Creativity, and Focusing. Karen's interview with Artherapyblog |
Introductions
Hi, I'm Karen Wallace, and I'm a professional member of the British Columbia Art Therapy Association.Art therapy is typically referred for situations in which words are difficult (ex: grief and loss), if there is a mind-body relationship to the nature of a person's trauma (ex: sexual abuse, PTSD), or for clients who are inept with words (ex: children, persons with a communication disability). Art therapy is also often sought out by clients who seek a more tangibly productive therapy (literally “rolling up your sleeves”), enjoy expressing themselves visually (artists, architects, crafters, etc.), or for whom talk therapy has not achieved the desired outcome and want to try something new. Art therapy is generally described as a highly illuminating, enjoyable, and unique experience. In my work I see individual clients who are exploring issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, abuse and trauma. I use psycho-education, cognitive behavior techniques, solution-oriented and expressive therapies. I draw on a wide variety of theories to create an integrative approach. I am client centered and use techniques and theories which 'fit' the client. I am a practising artist and combine theories in a very creative way in my practice to facilitate clients' journeys through change. Some of the tools I use in my work are sand tray, all forms of art making, focusing, life mapping, goal setting, relaxation techniques, guided visualizations, journal and creative writing, movement, somatic experiencing techniques, stress reduction techniques, reframing, EMDR, mindfulness meditation techniques and play therapy. I am always exploring new ways to work with different client needs. I feel that my strongest skill is my ability to facilitate my clients' journeys of transforming feelings of loss into healing and growth. |
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| CreateMixedMedia.com hosts new artists, offers tutorials for creating art, explores new exploring art techniques and lists great mixed-media books and supplies in one warm and inviting space. CreateMixedMedia.com is owned by F+W Media, Inc., publishers of North Light Books. The site's editor and contributors are employees and authors of North Light Books as well as other mixed media artists and enthusiasts. Check out my blog Creative Insights where I talk about Art Therapy. |
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Read more about Karen Wallace and Art Therapy Art Therapy Reflections |
