Art Therapy

ANNUAL GOAL: $25K

Adolescents have the opportunity to engage in both individual and group art therapy sessions within a secure and supervised environment, whether it be at a camp, after school, or in the comfort of their homes.

The Art of Giving Foundation organizes in-person art therapy sessions, establishing a secure haven for children to heal and flourish. Our approach emphasizes the fusion of art with community service, granting children a sense of ownership and responsibility for their communities. Through creative expression, children have the opportunity to enhance their schools, parks, and playgrounds, making a positive impact on their surroundings. Our ultimate goal is to seamlessly incorporate art therapy into every experience, promoting healing and empowerment through artistic expression.

What is Art Therapy?

Originating in the fields of art and psychotherapy, it is a distinct discipline that incorporates creative methods of expression through visual arts mediums. Drawing, painting, collage, coloring, or sculpting are used to help individuals express themselves as we examine the psychological and emotional undertones in their art. It is used as a remedial activity or an aid to diagnoses.

Art Therapy engages the subconscious through our senses, providing a unique and deeper means of communication. By enhancing the mind-body connection, we reveal concealed traumas, memories, pathologies, and address these issues in a creative and supportive way. We can’t always verbalize our emotions and oftentimes we filter our words. Art Therapy allows us to move beyond words through a guided experience filled with helpful techniques, goals, and creativity.

Treatment Focus

Individual and Group Art Therapy Sessions

Individual and Group Art Therapy Workshops offer a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore and express themselves creatively, while also delving into personal growth and healing. Led by experienced and certified art therapists, these workshops utilize various art modalities, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage, to facilitate self-expression and reflection.

In individual sessions, participants work one-on-one with a therapist to address specific goals, challenges, or emotions. Through the creative process, individuals can uncover insights, gain clarity, and develop coping strategies in a confidential and personalized setting.

Group workshops provide a dynamic and collaborative environment where participants can connect with others who may share similar experiences or struggles. Guided by a therapist, group members engage in artistic activities and group discussions, fostering a sense of belonging, support, and empathy. Group workshops also offer opportunities for interpersonal growth, communication skills development, and building social connections.

Whether in individual or group settings, Art Therapy Workshops offer a holistic approach to mental health and well-being, integrating the mind, body, and spirit. Participants are encouraged to explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences through art-making, allowing for deeper self-discovery, emotional expression, and personal empowerment.

Corporate Art Therapy Workshops

Corporate Art Therapy Workshops offer a unique and innovative approach to promoting employee well-being, team building, and professional development within a corporate setting. Led by certified art therapists, these workshops provide a creative outlet for employees to explore stress reduction techniques, enhance communication skills, and foster a positive work culture. Through engaging art activities tailored to the needs and goals of the organization, participants have the opportunity to express themselves artistically, collaborate with colleagues, and problem-solve in a supportive environment. These workshops can be customized to address specific workplace challenges, such as stress management, conflict resolution, or burnout prevention.

Corporate Art Therapy Workshops promote employee engagement and morale by encouraging self-expression, boosting creativity, and fostering a sense of community among team members. By tapping into the therapeutic benefits of art-making, participants can gain insights into their own emotions, improve self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies for navigating workplace stressors.

Camps and Special Events

Art Therapy camps and special events offer enriching and therapeutic experiences for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Led by certified art therapists and experienced facilitators, these immersive programs provide a unique opportunity for participants to explore creativity, self-expression, and personal growth in a supportive and nurturing environment. Campers and event attendees engage in a variety of art-based activities, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and multimedia art projects. Through guided exercises and open-ended prompts, participants are encouraged to express themselves freely, tap into their imagination, and connect with their emotions in a nonverbal and symbolic way. In addition to artistic exploration, Art Therapy camps and events often incorporate mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and group discussions to enhance self-awareness, stress management, and emotional regulation skills. Participants learn valuable coping strategies, communication skills, and problem-solving techniques that they can apply in their everyday lives. These programs foster a sense of community and belonging, allowing participants to connect with others who may share similar experiences or challenges. By creating a safe and supportive space for self-expression and reflection, Art Therapy camps and events promote resilience, empowerment, and holistic well-being. Whether held in a natural outdoor setting, a community center, or a therapeutic retreat, Art Therapy camps and events offer a transformative and empowering experience for individuals seeking personal growth, healing, and creative expression. They provide a valuable opportunity for participants to reconnect with themselves, explore their inner world, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and authenticity.

Schools and Community Center Workshops

Art Therapy services at schools provide a supportive and inclusive environment for students of all ages to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and foster personal growth through artistic expression. Led by certified art therapists, these services offer a holistic approach to mental health and well-being, integrating art-making with therapeutic techniques to address a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges.

Through individual and group sessions, students engage in various art modalities, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and collage, to express themselves creatively and non-verbally. Art therapy encourages self-discovery, self-expression, and empowerment, allowing students to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and confidential setting.

Art Therapy services at schools are tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each student, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, social skills development, and academic challenges. By providing a creative outlet for emotional expression and reflection, art therapy helps students develop resilience, self-esteem, and healthy coping strategies for navigating life’s challenges.

These services also promote social-emotional learning and positive peer interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and connection within the school community. By integrating art therapy into the school environment, educators and mental health professionals can support students’ overall well-being and academic success.

Providing Art Therapy services at your school offers a valuable resource for students to enhance their emotional intelligence, develop essential life skills, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and empathy. They provide a safe and supportive space for students to explore their inner world, express themselves authentically, and thrive academically and emotionally.

Our Art Therapists

Autumn Pippenburg
Founder of Art of Giving Foundation, Art Therapist, Artist

Oakland University, Psychology | 2006 – 2010
North Central College, Behavioral Neuroscience | 2017 – 2019
National Certification Council for Activity Professionals, Illinois | 2019 – Present
Art Therapy Practitioner Certification | 2020 – Present
CPR Certification, Illinois | 2019 – Present

autumn@artofgivingfoundation.org

Jessica Cairo
Graphic/Web Designer, Art Therapist

College of DuPage, Associate in Arts, Illinois | 2006 – 2009
Harrington College of Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design, Chicago | 2010 – 2013
Art Therapy Practitioner Certification | 2023 – Present

jessica@artofgivingfoundation.org