It was a joy to get to know clinical social worker and training program alumna, Jessica Johnson. She shared how she has been applying her learning experiences in the Professional Expressive Arts Therapy Training Program in her work as a therapist, and in her own life. Suzan: So when did you graduate from the training […]
art and healing, Art Therapy, art trauma, arts and health, creative arts, creative process, creativity, expressive arts therapy, expressive arts training
The Journey to Becoming an Expressive Arts Therapist: An Interview with Cleopatra Bertelsen
16
Apr
Apr
I recently had the privilege of interviewing Cleopatra Bertelsen as my first of a series of interviews with current cohorts, or graduates of the NW Creative & Expressive Arts Professional Training Program. Here is what I learned from this vibrant, compassionate force in the field. By Suzan Alparslan Suzan: First I’d like to just get […]
aesthetics, art and healing, arts and health, creative arts, creative process, creativity, mindfulness, neuroaesthetics
Musings on Neuroaesthetics, Creativity, and the Poetry of Being
09
Feb
Feb
By, Suzan Alparslan, MFA Poetry is: words that are empowered to make your hair stand on end, that you realize instantly as being some form of subjective truth that has an objective reality to it, because somebody has realized it. Then you call it poetry later. ~ Allen Ginsberg It has been long established by […]
Art & Social Justice “Artists are here to disturb the peace. They have to disturb the peace. Otherwise, chaos.” James Baldwin As we have watched unprecedented events unfold throughout our country, we are reminded of the transformative power of art. Art and social justice are deeply connected. Speaking truth though art has a long and mighty […]
art and healing, Art Therapy, creative arts, creative process, creativity, drama therapy, expressive arts therapy
Reflections from a Graduate of Our Training Program
03
Jun
Jun
“As we tap into the deep sources of bodily wisdom through creative art expression, we dance the renewal, recreation, and healing of ourselves and our world.” This quote by Anna Halprin illustrates how creative expression not only helps to strengthen the body-mind connection but also aids in the process of our healing as individuals andas […]
art and healing, creative arts, creative process, creativity, narrative, Seattle Artist, storytelling
Local Artist Spotlight: Rae Akino
13
Oct
Oct
Local Artist Spotlight: Rae Akino Our intern, Sophia Maggio, recently interviewed local Seattle Artist, Rae Akino, who tells stories through her art, and has found healing along the way. SM: What brought you to art? RA: As a child I displayed interest as talent in drawing and crafts but was told that could never be […]
Art Therapy, art trauma, creative arts, creative process, creativity, drama therapy, expressive arts therapy, journal writing
To Make Art is Human, To Create Divine.
01
Oct
Oct
I am privileged to work with so many wonderful people who come to the institute for workshops and trainings. They come because they are drawn to the concept and practice of using the expressive arts for healing, but not everyone starts out being comfortable engaging in the arts experiences. Offering a safe space to explore […]
art kit, Art Therapy, creativity, expressive arts therapy
Have Art Supplies, Will Travel: The Making of a Mobile Expressive Arts Kit
09
Jul
Jul
An Interview with Courtney Taylor, LMHC Recent NWCEAI Graduate Meet Courtney Taylor, a counselor and recent graduate of the professional certificate program at NWCEAI. Courtney uses a unique traveling art kit to bring creativity to her clients. This week, we asked her about her therapeutic process, creativity, and recommendations for other therapists. What is your […]
13
Jun
Jun
By Sophia Maggio For clients who completely lack an artistic background, the process of rekindling your childlike creativity can be equal parts frustrating and enlightening. Childhood memories of Elmer’s glue, finger paint, and spontaneous collage creations are accessible to most clients, but preconceived notions about our artistic abilities can induce anxiety and self-doubt in the […]
04
Feb
Feb
This year, we are so happy to welcome our first ever Artist-in Residence, Caitlin Dundon! Caitlin Dundon is a mixed-media artist and calligrapher with over 20 years of experience. She teaches at mixed media and calligraphy conferences throughout the United States and Canada and has taught at Art & Soul Mixed Media Retreats (Portland, OR, […]
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