What originally drew you to the field of art therapy?

My first knowledge of art therapy was while working as a college admissions counselor in the early 2000’s. During a college fair I conversed with a counselor from Naropa University who shared information about their art therapy program. It intrigued me and over the next couple of years the seeds she planted became a reality and a melding of my experiences for a third career move. 

Can you tell us about your academic journey?

After receiving a BFA from the University of Colorado, I worked in the field of Interior Design. What I loved about the specialty was helping others in providing nurturing environments where they felt most at home with themselves. The nest has been a theme in my artwork; I believe the safety of the nest provides a place to begin the flight to other opportunities and growth. When I began to feel unfulfilled in those design projects that were less about the nurturing environments and more about other superficial elements, I began working with high school students as they embarked on making important decisions for their career journeys. During this time is when I also looked at possibilities which led me to obtain my master’s degree in clinical art therapy from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods in Indiana.  

Can you talk about the power of art therapy in your life and your work?

Creativity has been a part of my life since I was very young-both mine and, by osmosis, my family’s. Art continues to be a huge part of my family to this day and has been embraced by my sons and grandchildren. It wasn’t until I started my master’s degree that I truly felt the power and importance of art in my life. Understanding more about the power of the process rather than the final product continues to be a healing principle. For many of the clients I work with art becomes a voice they did not know they had. The power of the art never ceases to amaze me.  

From your point of view, what is the most important thing to keep in mind when working as an art therapist?

Acceptance and non-judgement of both the client and their art and meeting them where they are—knowing that we may be guides in their journey but it is their journey.  

What are some important self-care practices you recommend or practice?

Besides doing my own art, I enjoy getting out into nature, E-biking, knitting as a meditative practice, connecting with supportive people (family, friends, colleagues and a movie group that I have been a part of for 30 years). Another important aspect of self-care is to have an open mind as I continue to grow and learn. Continuing to build coping skills which reduce stress and emotional overload is an on-going process. Creative expression is one of those tools I use and encourage for my clients. I presently work on the JCMH wellness team where I provide wellness groups, somatic therapy, and health coaching. Self-care is an area which is encouraged for clients; practicing what I preach is fundamental.  

Are you working on anything now that you’re really excited about?

I will be “retiring” from JCMH in the spring. What I am most excited about is exploring what “retirement” will look like since my intent is to continue working with clients on some level. What that might be will keep me energetically engaged while I figure it out.  

How important is it to collaborate with your art therapy colleagues?

From the very beginning of my master's program the importance of collaboration became very important. St Mary’s is a long distance program and so connecting to colleagues, both long distance and in-person off-campus, was extremely important. Besides support, my colleagues offer continual inspiration, and new perspectives.  

How have your professional collaborations benefited your career?

These collaborations have lead to an exchange of ideas, resources, ways to use the art with clients, opportunities to learn from others experiences and to see options from different perspectives. Collaborations with professionals who are not art therapists also provide an opportunity to educate and provide a forum to utilize the art in a variety of settings. Professional collaborations can also benefit the client for more options and wrap around services. 

How would you like to see the field of art therapy evolve in the coming years?

It would be wonderful to have licensure here in Colorado, or title protection at the least. I believe there are many more opportunities to educate the public on art therapy and its benefits. My hope is also to see more engagement in, and building of, Colorado’s first-rate art community. CO-ATA is a wonderful way to connect and be a part of this community. Many voices can be stronger when we work together.  

Is there anything you would like to see happen to support and expand the Colorado art therapy community?

As mentioned above, actively engaging in our community and making a commitment to do so is a wonderful way to expand and support art therapy in Colorado. This past couple of years have been difficult to meet in person, yet there has been a creative effort to find new and exciting ways to connect. CO-ATA is a great forum to share and bring these ideas to fruition.  

Is there anything additional you would like to share about yourself or your experience as an art therapist or your art therapy practice?

I have had the opportunity to provide art therapy in a variety of settings: substance-use, medical, wellness, somatic, team-building. I continue to be in awe of the extensive power of art with clients and in turn how art manifests this power in my own life.