The arts have a long tradition of both play and imagination, offering a resource in critical times and an opportunity to explore and engage with the complexities of what it means to be human. Our lived experience is the language of our art making and this is the creative potential we each have to draw upon and share.
Psychotherapy, the arts and education support a conscious intention toward social change, honouring equity, diversity, multiplicity and staying open to the possibility of personal transformation, in all its many forms.
My approach is relational and collaborative, client-centred and resource-oriented. I value the therapeutic relationship as an interactive, co-creative process and I encourage clients to stay aware of, explore and express inner feelings and needs. Together, we look for new ways of responding, both verbally and through the arts, to the challenging issues in our lives. As we enliven our imaginal worlds, we find openings and options that otherwise might not be apparent. Exploring these openings, in both critical and in everyday situations, helps us to increase resilience, live our lives more fully and hopefully, with a greater sense of ease.
I offer space for both talking and play/work through the arts; writing, visual arts, drama, movement, voice.
Credentials:
Certification of Advanced Graduate Studies (European Graduate School, Switzerland)
Masters Degree in Expressive Therapies, with a minor in Psychology (Lesley University, Cambridge MA)
Associate Degree (Ontario College of Art and Design)
Certification (Toronto Teacher’s College)
The Create Institute (formerly, ISIS Canada) Graduate, Director and Core Teaching Faculty
European Graduate School, Saas Fee, Switzerland (Adjunct Faculty)
Private Practice (over 30 years as an expressive arts therapist, clinical supervisor and consultant in the field)
Studio Practice (visual art, voice and movement)
Professional Affiliations: Registered Psychotherapist, The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) The Ontario Expressive Arts Therapy Association (OEATA) National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC)
Additional Training: Ongoing trainings in issues of anti-racism, equity, diversity & inclusivity, gender-based violence. Study in Mexico at the Instituto de Allende, involvement with the Woman’s Building, a multi-cultural co-operative for women artists in Los Angeles, working with Paolo Soleri, visionary architect and philosopher at Arcosanti, his urban archeology in the Arizona desert, 25 years training as a martial artist in the disciplines of karate, tai chi & kung fu.
Areas of Experience: I work with individuals & couples who wish to explore issues of self-esteem, trauma, disordered eating, relationship, sexuality, gender identity & expression (questioning & clear), creative longings & creative blocks, loss & grieving.
Primary Arts practice: Drawing & Painting Qualified for clinical supervision: Yes
