Expressive Arts Therapy
My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic and integral. One that includes mind, body and spirit; as well as the living community and universe of which we each are part of. It is eclectic in that it is based on the influence of a variety of theoretical maps and experiential modalities. And integral, in that I seek to integrate practices from ancient and contemporary therapeutic arts. Working with such a broad pallet allows me great flexibility in my work, and gives me the ability to meet each unique situation with compassion and creativity.
One of the central concepts I hold as a therapist is the notion of soul retrieval -finding the lost or unknown parts of ourselves and calling them back home into wholeness. When we retrieve lost parts of ourselves, we gain full access to all of who we are, and from this place, we become free to connect to 'self', other and spirit. Through the awakening of our creative self, we are empowered to transform our stories and recreate new images in our lives. While the formation of soul can be a process that shreds every known part of our being into pieces, sometimes in chaotic and unexpected ways, it also has the potential to open us up to a deeper authenticity and fullness of being.
I see my role as a therapist as an attendant or midwife of the soul. Just like an acorn holds the entire genetic pattern of the oak tree, I believe each of us hold within us the potential for our full unfoldment. Through the language of creativity, a faculty to all human beings, and the process of art making, my clients get to participate in their own healing, giving voice to the language of their own psyche. This deeply engaging process is supported and held in a safe, permission-giving and sacred container. It is guided from within, not imposed from without. I deeply value the therapeutic relationship as a process of co-creation. A space in which we can peel off the layers in need of releasing, and open to new places of discovery and understanding.
Since ancient times, and across cultures, the arts have been an integral part of healing, spiritual and communal practices and rituals. Each community has had its own unique way of expressing its vital spirit and reclaiming its wholeness. The field of expressive arts therapy applies this ancient wisdom -- the healing and transformative power of the arts -- to the practice of psychotherapy.
Expressive arts is a multi-arts approach. The process involves interweaving various arts modalities (visual arts, music, movement, poetry, sandplay, prose, drama and ritual) in a way that meets each unique client's needs as well as addresses the specific issues they present. Creative expression if for evrybody, there is no need to be an artist!
By drawing from the different art disciplines, we expressive arts therapists can assist our clients in making contact with their authentic self. Each discipline brings something special and useful to the process, helping clients bridge the gap between their here & now literal reality, and the world of their imagination – a world where life stories are written in mythic form, and life experiences speak in symbols. Within this context, art becomes a container for life’s suffering and conflicts, as well as its joys, beauty and celebration. Verbal reflection is used to help clients understand more deeply the art-making process, as well as the art that they themselves have produced. Talking also allows clients to translate the metaphors that have arisen within their art processes, into their own lives. I deeply believe in the capacity we have as human beings for imagination, and in the healing that can happen when we use symbolic language, or engage in the act of art-full expression.
In my private practice, I work with adults, couples, families and groups. I have a specialty in working with couples, and a strong focus in couples from mixed ethnicity and/or culture.
I offer trainings and education to professionals and organizations, incorporating expressive arts therapy approaches in a way that honors the specific needs and preferences of the people I serve. One of my great passions is leading groups in studio spaces, where the main language of expression and transformation is the interweaving of the arts.
My work is both in English and in Spanish.
Fee for Individual: $110.00 (55 minute sessions)
Fee for Couples: $125.00 (75 minute sessions)
Before scheduling your first appointment in person I offer a free initial phone consultation.
SLIDING SCALE : I have a limited number of spaces available at a sliding scale rate. These spaces are mostly reserved for students and other low-income population. If you feel you qualify for a sliding scale, please ask about this during our initial phone consultation.