Art therapy
My approach to art therapy is embedded in a relational-cultural framework. This evolving feminist framework supports the belief that individual suffering takes place inside the larger context of social inequity, including systems of oppression like white supremacy, patriarchy, capitalism, ableism, heterosexism, and transphobia, among others. From a relational-cultural lens, we recognize that trauma often happens in the context of our relationships. We seek to use the therapeutic relationship itself as a space that can promote emotional repair and healing from these relational wounds, including suffering that emerges from the loss of a sense of safety or belonging. Therapy becomes a place to build trust, explore relationship patterns, look at personal boundaries, understand formative relationships, practice authenticity, engage conflict, and process fears. We use art making and creative self-expression in session to explore feelings, build self-esteem, deepen insight, and build loving relationships with ourselves.