Art and play are often the languages that children use to express themselves authentically – images serve to express more than they are able to communicate verbally, and toys and puppets within play become the tools for self-expression. Utilizing art therapy as an intervention for children matches these languages, and allows for the unique needs of each child to be met.
The child client is the leader of the therapy space, where for each 50 minute session, he or she chooses the avenue for expression, be it art materials, toys, a game, or combination. By working in this client-centred way, I have the opportunity to meet and accept the child exactly where he or she is, and work to develop a feeling of safety, unconditional acceptance, and trust. For a child, who often does not have a great sense of control in her or his world, the therapy space becomes one of empowerment, safety, and playful expression. Establishing this therapeutic relationship and safety, allows for vulnerable emotions and experiences to be expressed, and for healing to happen.
Aligning with parents of child clients is important in helping to extend the therapy work beyond the therapy time and space. Parent meetings are scheduled approximately every 4-5 sessions to discuss goals, progress, strategies for home and school, and are an opportunity for parents to update the therapist on changes happening in the client's world. These meetings are 50 minutes in length.
If you feel that psychotherapy or art therapy may be a positive fit for your child, please contact me for more information and to share about your child. I look forward to connecting with you.
Spring Forward: A Virtual Artmaking Workshop
Date: April 1, 2021, 7:00-8:30pm
Workshop Fee: $20 (including HST)
Email Jazmine to register: jtsarttherapy@gmail.com
*All adults welcome.
*Absolutely no art experience is necessary.
*Art materials found around the house are all that is needed to participate.
My favourite part about Spring, is seeing the bright green stems from the bulbs disrupt the dark, heavy, cold ground. I always, always look at these pushing through and am in awe of their might. This element of nature is an incredible metaphor for the darkness that is needed, that is essential, in order to have light. As humans, we cannot bloom and thrive all year round, this is impossible. We need dormancy, we experience moments of darkness, struggle, and quiet, that allow us to push through the tough ground towards the sun when we are ready again.
Join me for this virtual artmaking workshop, where we will explore this metaphor more deeply through artmaking, honouring the necessary darkness, and nurturing growth towards the light.