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The EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPIES (also called CREATIVE ARTS
THERAPIES) use the modalities of movement/ dance, music, art, drama and poetry intentionally by a trained
clinician to further the emotional, psychological, spiritual and physical integration of an individual or group.
In ancient and indigenous cultures, these modalities were part of the everyday life of individuals and communities,
and functioned naturally as healing agents. In modern useage of these modalities in healing, the focus is on EXPRESSION,
not production or performance. In my practice, I create a space where people can feel comfortable and interested in
what can unfold from deep within.
TOUCH-DRAWING:
One form that working expressively with the arts can take is Touch Drawing. The process
of Touch Drawing was develped by Deborah Koff-Chapin and is used all over
the world by expressive arts therapists to support deep healing of all kinds. It is is a simple yet powerful modality that supports
and expands self expression without words. Through the movement of hands and fingers on paper which is laid over an inked
board, images and symbols may arise from deep within. These images have
the power to reveal, surprise, express and heal. My office is equiped with everything needed for a full touch-drawing experience.
Here is what a sequence
of Touch Drawing might look like:
SANDPLAY: Sandplay is a non-verbal therapeutic modality
suitable for adults as well as children. Images, symbols and archetypes live and move within us. Here in the sand
tray, with hundreds of miniature figures, these images and symbols can speak, forming themselves into three-dimensional
scenes, while our conscious minds can rest --- trusting the unfolding wisdom. The sand scenes which are created do
their silent work within, showing us the way. The work of sandplay happens deep within the psyche.
Here is what a sequence of Sandplay might look like:
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