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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 |
I want to thank all the people in Victoria and surrounding area who
have used my services. I have relocated to Regina Sk. and I am very
excited about starting a new chapter in my life. I am still offering
my services through phone therapy. I will be returning to Victoria in
the future to do workshops and see clients. Thank you for your past
support and I look forward to connecting with you in the future. ~ Warmly, Karen IntroductionsHi, 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, 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. Read more about Karen Wallace and Art Therapy at: Art Therapy Reflections |
