Target audience: This talk is for patients, caregivers and providers interested in learning more about the healing potential of creative spaces and practices
Learning Objectives:
-Through this presentation, participants/ patients will gain an understanding of what art therapy is and learn about the healing release of using a blank page as a safe, non-judgmental, creative space that serves as a container for their full range of conscious and subconscious emotions, thoughts, and experiences throughout their cancer journey, and beyond—whether they are painting, sketching, collaging, doodling, journaling, or writing poetry or stories.
-They’ll also learn how creative and artistic outlets can help them regain a sense of control, mastery over overwhelming feelings and incidents, and instill hope, especially in the most challenging, overwhelming times. (I’ll include related research and data here too, as well as some examples/ a glance at some of the oncology art therapy programs at larger hospitals in the US today.)
-Participants will learn about how the mind, body, and spirit connection can be explored in a non-verbal, safe and creative way on the page.
-They’ll discover how the process of creating either a narrative, imagery, or a multimedia mix of both can be cathartic, calming, reassuring, empowering, and healing, no matter what else is going on in their lives.
-They’ll take away both inspiration and some simple prompts and creative “exercises” they can take home and try themselves, and rely on anytime, anywhere they feel a need for release from anxiety, depression, despair—or any of the emotional pain and challenges of battling cancer.
-I’ll also share some related research highlighting the positive impact of creative work on patients’ sense of wellbeing, and general outcomes, both in hospital settings and while undergoing treatment.
-Finally, I’ll share resources for patients interested in learning more, and/or finding creative outlets that can be healing, cathartic and empowering for them.
