Buckeye Art Therapy Association In The News

Our Hearts are with Hawaii

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 02:05:27 GMT

As Hawaii continues to mourn and make sense of the unprecedented wildfires in Lahaina on the island of Maui, we search for ways in which we can help. While nothing can bring back the beloved family members, friends, pets, and history lost in the fires, the following organizations are stepping up to care for those affected and make a difference. You can take part and support these relief and recovery efforts by donating to one of the important funds below.

Donate to a Maui Wildfire Relief Fund:

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA)

https://www.hawaiiancouncil.org/

Maui Nui Strong

https://www.mauinuistrong.info/support

University of Hawaii (UHMC) — Feeding Maui

https://giving.uhfoundation.org/funds/13035304

Hawaii Community Fund – Maui Strong

https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strong

‘Aina Momona

https://www.kaainamomona.org/maui

University of the Nations/Youth with a Mission Ships

https://www.ywamshipskona.org/maui-fires/

Take care & mahalo,

The BATA BOD

BATA MEMBERS, WE DID IT!

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 03:01:25 GMT

OHIO HAS ART THERAPY LICENSURE!

We are ecstatic to announce that Governor DeWine signed House Bill 33 on July 3rd, finally securing art therapy licensure in Ohio. This law is the commencement of the persistent and committed advocacy that Ohio art therapists have put forth over the span of several decades. Many, many thanks to everyone who has participated in these efforts - your input was valued and your voice was heard!

While we are elated and immensely proud of this accomplishment, we have a lot of work ahead. This is an incredibly important step for our field which has laid a regulatory foundation that we will continue to build upon. Licensure is the beginning of many possibilities for the community of Ohio art therapists and the people we serve.

We know you will have lots of questions about when/how this will take effect. Please review pages 73-74 of the synopsis, which highlights the majority of the information we currently have: HB 33 Art Therapy Synopsis.pdf

The BATA BOD is actively working to compile information for you and the public to make this transition comprehensible and supportive. Make sure to read upcoming BATA E-Blasts for updated information and opportunities to participate in various projects in the near future.

But for now - let's celebrate!

With pride and appreciation,

The BATA Board of Directors & Legislative Committee

House Bill 68

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 02:43:10 GMT

April 20, 2023

The Buckeye Art Therapy Association believes in equal access to healthcare for all. We are committed to supporting those who are vulnerable to discriminatory practices which strip away their human rights, compromise personal safety, and perpetuate harm. Thus, we stand in opposition to House Bill 68: the Ohio Saving Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act, which would ban vital gender-affirming care for trans and non-binary youth.

Ohio House Bill 68 would:

Prohibit physicians from prescribing cross-sex hormones or puberty blockers, and from performing any type of gender reassignment surgery on minors
Prohibit healthcare providers from helping patients find gender affirming care in other states, outlawing conduct that “aids and abets”
Prohibit mental health professionals from diagnosing or treating a minor with a gender-related condition without consent from the patient’s legal guardian and screening the patient for comorbidities, physical, sexual, mental, and emotional abuse and other trauma
Prohibit courts from considering a parent’s refusal to accept a child’s trans identity (including misgendering, deadnaming, and denying access to counseling for their child) in custody cases
Prevent any restriction on the practice of “watchful waiting,” an approach in which medical interventions are intentionally withheld
Mandate that mental health professionals annually report information regarding minors they have treated for gender-related conditions, including number of patients, demographic data on patients (age at diagnosis, sex assigned at birth, comorbidities), and the number of patients who resumed identification with their sex assigned at birth
Prohibit Medicaid from covering gender transition services

The implications of HB 68 are far-reaching – effecting transgender and non-binary youth, as well as the families, friends, physicians, mental health professionals, family court systems, and social services that endeavor to protect and care for them. To support the communities affected by this proposed legislation, we encourage you to reach out and share the following resources.

Take Action!

Learn More About HB 68 – HB 68 was introduced on February 27, 2023, and received its first hearing for sponsor testimony on Tuesday, April 19^th. It is currently housed in the Ohio House Public Health Policy Committee. The House Bill 68 - 135th General Assembly webpage gives you access to the bill text, summary, status, votes, and committee member list. https://ohiohouse.gov/legislation/135/hb68

Ohiohouse.gov – Provides contact information for each member of the Public Health Policy Committee and allows. https://ohiohouse.gov/committees/public-health-policy

ACLU Ohio – Provides a script and pre-filled form for sending a message to the House Public Health Policy Committee. https://action.aclu.org/send-message/protect-trans-youth-stop-hb-68

Human Rights Campaign – By inspiring and engaging individuals and communities, the Human Rights Campaign strives to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. https://www.hrc.org/about

TransOhio – TransOhio serves the Ohio transgender and ally communities by providing services, education, support, and advocacy, which promotes and improves the health, safety and life experience of the Ohio transgender individual and community. http://transohio.squarespace.com/

Equality Ohio – Ohio’s statewide LGBTQ+ advocacy and legal aid organization. https://equalityohio.org/

BATA Statement on School Shooting Tragedy in Uvalde, Texas

Sat, 28 May 2022 17:04:56 GMT

May 28, 2022

The Buckeye Art Therapy Association (BATA) is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life that took place in Uvalde, Texas this week. We send our condolences to the 21 families in mourning and recognize the need for universal grieving as our nation confronts yet another preventable act of violence against our most innocent and vulnerable.

When 19 children, and 2 teachers committed to helping them learn and grow, are targeted in what should be a safe environment, we have witnessed a societal failure. As we now rush to respond, we are reminded of what could’ve been if prevention was prioritized.

Going forward, BATA supports collaborative efforts between mental health professionals and lawmakers to identify initiatives that improve management of access to guns and promote public safety. Additionally, BATA continues to advocate for accessible and equitable mental healthcare across OH.

As an association, we value our members and their efforts to help others in need. We hope the following resources may assist you in taking care of yourself, your families, and your clients at this time.

Fund for Families of Victims and Survivors of the Uvalde School Shooting

A grassroots civil rights organization, the League of United Latin American Citizens has set up a fundraising site for the families of victims and survivors of the Uvalde shooting

https://lulac.org/uvaldefund/

Comprehensive School Safety

Resources to help individuals and state associations advocate for the recommended policies and practices to improve school safety

https://www.nasponline.org/research-and-policy/policy-priorities/critical-policy-issues/comprehensive-school-safety

Caring for Kids After a School Shooting

A video from the Child Mind Institute regarding best practices for treating children after a school shooting in their community

https://childmind.org/article/caring-for-kids-after-a-school-shooting/

Biopic Mental Health

Mental health resources for black, indigenous, and people of color from Mental Health America

https://www.mhanational.org/bipoc-mental-health

Gun Violence Trauma: Resources for Counselors and Consumers

Trauma counseling resources from the American Counseling Association

https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/mental-health-resources/gun-violence-trauma-resources

Take Care of Your Emotional Health (For Your Clients & The Public)

Resources from the American Counseling Association

https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/mental-health-resources/trauma-disaster/take-care-of-your-emotional-health-for-your-clients-and-the-public

Gun Violence: Prediction, Prevention, and Policy

An overview of research-based conclusions and recommendations on how to reduce the incidence of gun violence from the American Psychological Association

https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/gun-violence-prevention

Gun Violence Research

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Policy-Priorities/Stopping-Harmful-Practices/Gun-Violence-Research

EVERYTOWN for Gun Safety

https://www.everytown.org/

MOMS DEMAND ACTION for Gun Sense in America

https://momsdemandaction.org/

STUDENTS DEMAND ACTION for Gun Sense in America

https://studentsdemandaction.org/about/

NAMI HelpLine

1-800-950-NAMI (6264) — open Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET.

WOSU All Sides with Ann Fisher Podcast

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 00:30:10 GMT

Cheryl Pete, art therapist and Clinical Director of the Art Therapy Studio, was featured on the March 24 Wellness Wednesday segment of WOSU's "All Sides with Ann Fisher". She provided excellent information on the field and practice of art therapy, and answer questions regarding licensure.

Listen here:

https://radio.wosu.org/post/wellness-wednesday-repurposing-drugs-pandemic#stream/0

Buckeye Art Therapy Association Receives 2019 Best of Oberlin Award

Diane Fleisch Hughes — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 13:01:33 GMT

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Buckeye Art Therapy Association Receives 2019 Best of Oberlin Award

Oberlin Award Program Honors the Achievement

OBERLIN October 21, 2019 -- Buckeye Art Therapy Association has been selected for the 2019 Best of Oberlin Award in the Non-Profit Organization category by the Oberlin Award Program.

Each year, the Oberlin Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Oberlin area a great place to live, work and play.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2019 Oberlin Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Oberlin Award Program and data provided by third parties.

About Oberlin Award Program

The Oberlin Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Oberlin area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.

The Oberlin Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.

BATA honored by Ohio State Senator Nickie Antonio

Diane Fleisch Hughes — Wed, 22 May 2019 01:13:21 GMT

Canton’s Cyrus Gallery show explores art therapy

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 08 May 2018 23:30:51 GMT

The art show titled “Art Heals” is engaging on multiple levels. For starters, there’s the artwork itself, representing a wide range of styles, subject matter and skill levels. But then there are the artists’ poignant stories, typed out and hanging alongside the work, that lend illumination to the visuals. Much of the art now displayed at Cyrus Custom Framing & Art Gallery was created as art therapy by people dealing with cancer, addictions, depression, domestic violence, PTSD, negative self-image and other challenges.

To view entire article, please visit: https://www.google.com/amp/www.cantonrep.com/entertainmentlife/20180506/cantons-cyrus-gallery-show-explores-art-therapy%3ftemplate=ampart

Rep. Anielski Gives Sponsor Testimony In Support Of Art Therapy Licensure

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 17:15:31 GMT

State Representative Marlene Anielski (R-Walton Hills) gave sponsor testimony before the House Health Committee on behalf of House Bill 557. The bill would grant a license to Art Therapists to practice in the State of Ohio under the guidance of the State of Ohio Medical Board. The licensure process would enforce standards of training, practice, and discipline across a therapeutic practice that has rapidly expanded in recent years.

To view entire article, please visit: http://www.ohiohouse.gov/marlene-anielski/press/rep-anielski-gives-sponsor-testimony-in-support-of-art-therapy-licensure

“Emergency” art kits give cancer patients a dose of inspiration

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 15:26:20 GMT

Professional artist and Cleveland Clinic patient Brad Bailey raised enough money to create 200 art kits for other hospitalized patients. Mr. Bailey says “I’ve found the beauty in beauty, if you know what I mean.” Art therapist Lisa Shea is helping to distribute kits.

To view entire article, please visit: http://giving.clevelandclinic.org/articles/emergency-art-kits

BATA awards State Representative Marlene Anielski with "Legislator of the Year" Award

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 17:57:07 GMT

State Representative Marlene Anielski (R-Walton Hills) was honored by the Buckeye Art Therapy Association (BATA) with the “Legislator of the Year Award” for her work in mental health policy, suicide prevention, and awareness regarding mental health. “I am honored and humbled to receive the ‘Legislator of the Year Award’ from the Buckeye Art Therapy Association,” said Rep. Anielski. “Art therapy is such a vital tool in helping individuals deal with trauma and pain. I am happy to advocate its use among patients that need it. I look forward to working closely with BATA in the future to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues, treat those in Ohio who need treatment, and reduce the impact that suicide has on our population.”

To view entire article, please visit: http://www.ohiohouse.gov/marlene-anielski/press/representative-anielski-honored-by-the-buckeye-art-therapy-association

William M. Denihan, CEO of the ADAMHS Board receives recognition from the Buckeye Art Therapy Association

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 00:11:44 GMT

William M. Denihan, CEO of the ADAMHS Board receives recognition from the Buckeye Art Therapy Association that was presented by Katie Kern-Pilch, community member of the Planning & Oversight Committee.

To view full article please visit: http://files.constantcontact.com/09cdd743501/529a3d83-5203-4e07-8346-3f2928645156.pdf

A Day in the Life of an Art Therapist

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 00:55:47 GMT

Jody Pittner, art therapist at Akron Children's Hospital's states “When kids are hospitalized, they lose some ability to make choices – sometimes they’re confined to their room, withdrawn, scared or in pain,” she said. “My job is to offer a distraction from all the invasive medical equipment and procedures and use art as an outlet to allow them to express themselves and their emotions.”

Article by Kathy Johnson, published on March 17, 2017

To view full article, please visit: http://inside.akronchildrens.org/2017/03/17/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-art-therapist/

Art Therapy Transforms Veterans

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 23:20:05 GMT

The Veteran's Expressive Art Class is open to anyone that has served in any branch of the military, regardless of type of discharge, and no art experience is necessary.Art is a way to quiet all those outside voices and connect to the inner self, art therapist Cheryl Pete said.

Article written by Courtney McNaull on 3/11/17

To view full article, please visit: http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/story/news/local/2017/03/11/art-therapy-transforms-veterans/98816464/

Centers for Dialysis Care art exhibit at Beachwood Library features inspiring work of patients

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 11:57:48 GMT

Art therapist Dawn Knez said that creating art can also have other benefits for patients."They will sometimes talk to us (art therapists) about what they're feeling. We're not as threatening (as medical personnel)."Knez further believes in art therapy in that it is a way for patients to show and leave behind something tangible from a difficult period of their lives.

Article by Jeff Piorkowski on 3/21/17

To view full article, please visit: http://www.cleveland.com/beachwood/index.ssf/2017/03/beachwood_cdc.html

Canton Museum of Art launches ‘Art for Health and Healing’ expressive art therapy program

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Fri, 03 Mar 2017 00:30:06 GMT

In response to the growing need for expressive art therapy services in Stark County, Canton Museum of Art (CMA) began the Art for Health and Healing Program in January. This unique hands-on program was conceived and developed by the CMA staff and local art therapy consultant, Gail Wetherell-Sack and is facilitated by Amy Hope.

Article published in The Akronist by on 3/1/17.

To view full article, please visit: http://akronist.com/canton-museum-art-launches-art-health-healing-expressive-art-therapy-program/

2017 Ohio Youth Summit: A Day of Awareness, Prevention, and Advocacy

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sun, 05 Feb 2017 20:02:17 GMT

On Friday, February 3rd Gretchen Miller, MA, ATR-BC, participated in the 1st Annual Ohio Human Trafficking Youth Prevention Summit held in Columbus at the Ohio Statehouse. The event was hosted by Representative Theresa Fedor as an additional event to the 8th Annual Ohio Human Trafficking Awareness Day held in the Capitol the day before.

Blog posted by Gretchen Miller on February 5, 2017

To view full post, please visit https://gretchenmiller.wordpress.com/2017/02/05/2017-ohio-youth-summit-a-day-of-awareness-prevention-and-advocacy/

Art Heals, Cleveland Clinic Newsletter

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Wed, 16 Nov 2016 16:04:23 GMT

The goals of the Cleveland Clinic Arts in Medicine Institute are to enhance hospitalizations, provide healing through arts, and build community.

Fall Edition 2016 of Cleveland Clinic Newsletter: Art-Heals-Cleve-Clinic.pdf

AATA President-Elect and Executive Director Join the Buckeye Art Therapy Association for Symposium

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 24 Oct 2016 14:42:23 GMT

BATA Executive Director Cynthia Woodruff, and President-Elect Christianne Strang, attended the Buckeye Art Therapy Association 35th annual symposium.

Article published by Christianne Strang on October 10, 2016.

To view full article, please visit http://multibriefs.com/briefs/aata/buckeye100516.pdf

Art Therapy will Aid Syrian Refugees

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Thu, 11 Aug 2016 22:32:21 GMT

A group of ten audiologists and volunteers including Art Therapist Raja Aossey will be embarking on the journey to Jordan with nonprofit HearCare Connection Toledo. “They lack a lot of resources and by providing this to them it will ensure that they have an opportunity to be successful and pursue other opportunities in the future." ~ Raja Aossey, MSAT, Art Therapist.

Article published by Sharon Gaeta on 8/10/16.

To see full article, please visit http://nbc24.com/news/local/art-therapy-will-aid-syrian-refugees

Some Find Art More Therapeutic Than Words

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 19:16:00 GMT

This week on “Take Care,” international art therapy expert, Cathy Malchiodi gives us an insight to art therapy and how it works. Malchiodi is a research psychologist, art therapist, and clinical counselor. She is also the founder and director of the Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute, and is the president of Art Therapy Without Borders.

Article published on "Take Care" by staff on 7/30/16.

To read full article and listen to podcast, please visit http://wrvo.org/post/some-find-art-more-therapeutic-words

Art Therapy Around Columbus Aids Self Expression

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:08:10 GMT

“Art therapy presents a tangible body of evidence that shows the progression you’re making,” says Molly Kometiani, president of the Buckeye Art Therapy Association, the Ohio chapter of the American Art Therapy Association. “You don’t have that body of evidence in other types of therapy. You can see how far you’ve grown.” Hook has dealt with a lot of clients who already tried counseling and didn’t find it effective, but ended up having more luck with art therapy. “There are a lot of things that are hard for us to find the words for,” she says. “(The clients) just don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling. Sometimes, it’s easier to work through it in a symbolic way.” Also featured are Maryann Sender and Michaele Barsnack.

Article published CityScene Magazine by Hanna Bealer on 5/25/16.

To see full article, please visit http://www.cityscenecolumbus.com/health/art-therapy-around-columbus-aids-self-expression/

Lake County exhibit to showcase artists with brain disorders, addictions

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Wed, 04 May 2016 11:49:48 GMT

Heidi Sliter, an art therapist with Crossroads, an agency in the ADAMHS network that focuses on children, adolescents and families, says the “Expressions of Recovery” show offers a unique perspective on the nature of brain disorders. “Art therapy can be an important part of someone’s recovery on a number of different levels,” she says in the release. “Many use their art to express their feelings about their illness, or make their illness more tangible. For others, the creative process itself provides some very therapeutic relief from the symptoms of the illness. So some of the pieces in this exhibit are fun or silly, some are touching, some even a bit disquieting. But collectively, this is a body of work that will definitely open people’s eyes.”

Article published in the News Herald on 4/25/16.

To see complete article, please visit http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20160425/lake-county-exhibit-to-showcase-artists-with-brain-disorders-addictions

Paint me a memory

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 12:08:09 GMT

Art can provide a way for people with dementia to express themselves even after their memories and words have begun to fade away. Artistic activities give residents an outlet for emotional responses and can boost their self-esteem, help them relax, reduce their isolation and increase their attention span.“For people with dementia, verbal interactions may remain at the level of ‘social niceties only,’ but art mixes tactile activities with emotion, engaging neuropathological pathways in a different way,” says Michele Tarsitano-Amato, director of creative arts and a therapy/dementia specialist at Kendal at Oberlin, a continuing care retirement community in Oberlin, Ohio. “It lets them go deeper and can be a bridge to social interactions and allow them to engage and contribute.”

Article written by Beth Thomas Hertz and published in Long Term Living on March 14, 2016

Click to view complete article http://www.ltlmagazine.com/article/paint-me-memory

Statement on Possible Changes to Ohio’s Marijuana Laws

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 11:54:40 GMT

The Coalition for Healthy Communities urges members of the Ohio General Assembly and the voting public to ensure that any action they take reflects the harm resulting from the use of marijuana on individuals and society in general during the ongoing debate to change Ohio’s marijuana laws.

Scientific evidence tells us that marijuana use results in cognitive impairment[i] [ii] and changes in brain structure and function [iii] [iv]; increased risk of psychosis[v] ; acceleration of the development of schizophrenic symptoms[vi]; exacerbation of anxiety and depression[vii] ; greater numbers of traffic accidents resulting from drugged driving[viii] [ix], and an increased likelihood of using other illicit substances -- the so-called “gateway phenomenon” [x] [xi] [xii].

The Coalition for Healthy Communities is a statewide collaboration of organizations advocating for improved access to quality mental health and substance use treatment and support services. For additional information regarding the Coalition and to view individual organization’s statements related to possible changes to Ohio’s marijuana laws, please visit www.Ohioc4hc.org.

Buckeye Art Therapy Association, Inc.

Drug Free Action Alliance

Mental Health & Addiction Advocacy Coalition

National Alliance on Mental Illness of Ohio

Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health

Authorities

Ohio Council of Behavioral Health & Family

Services Providers

Ohio Psychiatric Physicians Association

Citations

[i] Pope HG Jr, Gruber AJ, Hudson JI, Cohane G, Huestis MA, Yurgelun-Todd D. Early-onset cannabis use and cognitive

deficits: what is the nature of the association? Drug Alcohol Depend. 2003 Apr 1;69(3):303-10. PubMed PMID:

12633916.

[ii] Gruber SA, Sagar KA, Dahlgren MK, Racine M, Lukas SE. Age of onset of marijuana use and executive function.

Psychol Addict Behav. 2012 Sep;26(3):496-506. doi: 10.1037/a0026269. Epub 2011 Nov 21. Erratum in: Psychol

Addict Behav. 2012 Sep;26(3):506. PubMed PMID: 22103843; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3345171
[iii]Gilman JM, Kuster JK, Lee S, Lee MJ, Kim BW, Makris N, van der Kouwe A, Blood AJ, Breiter HC. Cannabis use is

quantitatively associated with nucleus accumbens and amygdala abnormalities in young adult recreational users. J

Neurosci. 2014 Apr 16;34(16):5529-38. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.4745-13.2014. PubMed PMID: 24741043; PubMed

Central PMCID: PMC3988409

[iv]Batalla A, Bhattacharyya S, Yücel M, Fusar-Poli P, Crippa JA, Nogué S, Torrens M, Pujol J, Farré M, Martin-Santos R.

Structural and functional imaging studies in chronic cannabis users: a systematic review of adolescent and adult

findings. PLoS One. 2013;8(2):e55821. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0055821. Epub 2013 Feb 4. Review. PubMed

PMID: 23390554; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3563634.

[v] Large M, Sharma S, Compton MT, Slade T, Nielssen O. Cannabis use and earlier onset of psychosis: a systematic

meta-analysis. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2011 Jun;68(6):555-61. doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.5. Epub 2011 Feb

7. Review. PubMed PMID: 21300939.

[vi] Kuepper R, van Os J, Lieb R, Wittchen HU, Höfler M, Henquet C. Continued cannabis use and risk of incidence and

persistence of psychotic symptoms: 10 year follow-up cohort study. BMJ. 2011 Mar 1;342:d738. doi:

10.1136/bmj.d738. PubMed PMID: 21363868; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3047001.

[vii] Degenhardt L, Hall W, Lynskey M. Exploring the association between cannabis use and depression. Addiction. 2003

Nov;98(11):1493-504. Review. PubMed PMID: 14616175.

[viii] Brady JE, Li G. Trends in alcohol and other drugs detected in fatally injured drivers in the United States, 1999-2010. Am J Epidemiol. 2014 Mar 15;179(6):692-9. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwt327. Epub 2014 Jan 29. PubMed PMID: 24477748; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3939850

[ix] Lenné MG, Dietze PM, Triggs TJ, Walmsley S, Murphy B, Redman JR. The effects of cannabis and alcohol on

simulated arterial driving: Influences of driving experience and task demand. Accid Ana Prev. 2010 May;42(3):859-

66. doi: 10.1016/j.aap.2009.04.021. PubMed PMID: 20380913.

[x] Agrawal A, Neale MC, Prescott CA, Kendler KS. A twin study of early cannabis use and subsequent use and

abuse/dependence of other illicit drugs. Psychol Med. 2004 Oct;34(7):1227-37. PubMed PMID: 15697049.

[xi] Hall W, Degenhardt L. Prevalence and correlates of cannabis use in developed and developing countries. Curr Opin

Psychiatry. 2007 Jul;20(4):393-7. Review. PubMed PMID: 17551355.

[xii] Panlilio LV, Zanettini C, Barnes C, Solinas M, Goldberg SR. Prior exposure to THC increases the addictive effects of

nicotine in rats. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2013 Jun;38(7):1198-208. doi: 10.1038/npp.2013.16. Epub 2013 Jan 11.

PubMed PMID: 23314220; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3656362.

Contact: Marcie Seidel, Co-chair, Coalition for Healthy Communities

Executive Director, Drug Free action Alliance

614-540-9985

MSeidel@DrugFreeActionAlliance.org

Art therapist with Hospice of the Western Reserve will lead workshop in Highland Hills

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 14:47:44 GMT

16TH ANNUAL ART AND HEALING EXHIBIT

When: Feb. 25 to March 24

Where: Cuyahoga Community College Eastern Campus, 4250 Richmond Road, Highland Hills.

Workshop: Life Journeys, Pathways and Reflections in Art Making, led by Barbara Trauger-Querry at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 26

Click to view the complete article http://www.news-herald.com/article/HR/20160223/FEATURES/160229843

Article written by Janet Podolak, published in the News Herald on 2/23/16.

Ursuline ArtSpace Outreach: Art Therapy Services with Front Steps Housing and Services

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 18:43:12 GMT

In 2014, with generous funding from the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland Ministry Endowment Fund, Ursuline ArtSpace, founded by its Director Sister Kathleen Burke, OSU, Ph.D, ATR-BC, LPC-S, over a decade ago, was able to extend and enhance its services further into the community to serve vulnerable and at-risk youth and adults throughout Cleveland. One of the three organizations that this initial funding has benefited is Front Steps Housing and Services . Front Steps Housing and Services offers safe housing and a structured environment to help women and men make the changes in their lives that lead to self-sufficiency and independence. Front Steps serves as a catalyst for social change by supporting residents as they transform their lives and by working towards an end to homelessness.

Since 2014, Ursuline ArtSpace Outreach Services Coordinator Gretchen Miller, MA, ATR-BC has provided a monthly art therapy group on-site to empower positive decision making, self-awareness, manage traumatic stress, and strengthen coping skills through art. In 2015, Ursuline ArtSpace Outreach collaborated with Front Steps on a major art therapy grant awarded to the agency by The Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County. This additional funding increased group services provided by ArtSpace Outreach to every week for Front Steps clients, alumni and community organizations in Cleveland that are serving adults living with homelessness and mental health recovery. And good news for 2016: more funding for this art therapy programming at Front Steps has been renewed by the ADAMHS Board!

On December 17, 2015 Front Steps hosted an Art Therapy Exhibit and Open House to celebrate the group work and its participants who have been part of the art therapy program throughout this year. It was very moving to witness such heartfelt testimonies & gratitude about the power of art therapy from participants, ADAMHS Board representatives in attendance, & Front Steps Staff (Regina Spicer, Program Director and Sherri Brandon, Executive Director pictured below).

To learn more about Ursuline ArtSpace's Outreach sites and programming, please visit: http://www.ursulineartspace.com/Outreach.html

Photo credit: Katie Kern Pilch

World AIDS Day Art Mosaic Raises Awareness for Disease

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sun, 06 Dec 2015 21:40:20 GMT

In honor of World Aids Day Tuesday, December 1, the community of University Hospitals Case Medical Center joined to create a 100-piece art mosaic in an effort to revitalize HIV/AIDS awareness. Art therapist Stephen Macek co-organized the project.

Click to view the complete article: http://www.newswise.com/articles/world-aids-day-art-mosaic-raises-awareness-for-disease

Art Therapy Students and Faculty Travel Abroad

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sat, 29 Aug 2015 01:38:27 GMT

Click to view the complete article (scroll down):

http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=eb8ca3479e21269a1ea98722e&id=326dd2df07

Article written by Maryann Sender, published in the Creative Arts Newsletter on 6/8/15

Art therapy pioneer Don Jones found way to let the mentally ill speak

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 00:56:12 GMT

Article on the art therapy pioneer Don Jones and how through art he found his calling touching thousands of lives.

Click to view the complete article:

http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2015/02/14/art-therapy-pioneer-found-way-to-let-the-mentally-ill-speak.html

Article written by Eric Lyttle, published in the Columbus Dispatch on 2/14/15

Art therapy draws parents at Akron Children’s seeking stress release

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 00:52:40 GMT

Art therapy allows for stress and anxiety management for families of patients at Akron Children's Hospital.

Click to view the complete article:

http://www.ohio.com/news/local/art-therapy-draws-parents-at-akron-children-s-seeking-stress-release-1.564979

Article written by Cheryl Powell, published in Akron Beacon Journal on 2/6/15

University Hospitals cancer patient exhibits the art that helps in his treatment: Michael K. McIntyre's Tipoff

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 00:42:36 GMT

University Hospital cancer patient Peter Rinaldi uses art for expression, pain management, and procedural support with help from art therapist Stephen Macek. Click to view the complete article:

http://www.cleveland.com/tipoff/index.ssf/2015/02/university_hospitals_cancer_pa.html

Article written by Michael K. McIntyre, published in Plain Dealer on 2/11/15

Standing tall: Scoliosis surgeries help straighten severe curvature of 10 year old’s spine

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sat, 24 Jan 2015 13:08:00 GMT

While most kids her age were outside savoring the last days of summer before school started, 10-year-old Shannon Stapleton, of Mansfield, was spending her days and nights at Akron Children’s Hospital. - See more at: http://inside.akronchildrens.org/2014/09/03/standing-tall-scoliosis-surgeries-help-straighten-severe-curvature-of-10-year-olds-spine/#sthash.3zrZEKqV.dpu

While Shannon underwent scoliosis surgery at Akron Children's Hospital, she worked with art therapist Molly Kohut as a way to deal with her pain and decorate her hospital room walls.

Click to view the complete article:

http://inside.akronchildrens.org/2014/09/03/standing-tall-scoliosis-surgeries-help-straighten-severe-curvature-of-10-year-olds-spine/

Article written by Laurie Schueler, published in Inside Akron Children's Hospital Blog on 9/3/14

September 3, 2014 by Laurie Schueler, Media Relations Specialist - See more at: http://inside.akronchildrens.org/2014/09/03/standing-tall-scoliosis-surgeries-help-straighten-severe-curvature-of-10-year-olds-spine/#sthash.3zrZEKqV.dpuf

Fine Arts puts focus on creative therapies

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 19:12:01 GMT

Danielle Klein, a registered art therapist is featured in this article about the work she is doing at the Fine Arts Association in Willoughby, OH.

Ann Marie Raddell is a music therapist who has similar experiences in the classes she teaches at Fine Arts Association and in her work at Lake Health medical centers.

Click to view the complete article: http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20140708/fine-arts-puts-focus-on-creative-therapies

Article written by Devon Turchan, published in The News-Herald on 7/8/14

WomenSafe in Geauga County marks 35 years of helping those affected by domestic violence

Mon, 14 Jul 2014 15:24:27 GMT

Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, Jen Lanza-Linn, LPC-CR, ATR, is highlighted in this news article about her work with the art therapy program at WomenSafe in Geauga County, OH.

http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20140707/womensafe-in-geauga-county-marks-35-years-of-helping-those-affected-by-domestic-violence

Article written by Betsy Scott and published in the News Herald on 7/3/14.

Child-welfare agencies offer targeted care to troubled kids

Mon, 26 May 2014 19:43:00 GMT

Article written by Rita Price , posted in The Columbus Dispatch • Sunday May 25, 2014

Featuring Ohio art therapist, Liz Hartz and her work at the Village Network. Village Network is among a growing number of agencies nationwide using a trauma-based therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Bruce Perry and the ChildTrauma Academy in Houston

Click here to read the complete article: http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2014/05/25/targeted-care.html

Paralyzed girl, 6, uses her mouth to create art at Akron Children's Hospital

Thu, 22 May 2014 12:41:03 GMT

Reported by Bob Jones with News 5 NBC in Akron, OH on 5/21/14

This story highlights how medical art therapy is benefitting patients at Akron Children's Hospital. A 6 year old girl, Dereon, is shown working with Art Therapy Coordinator, Molly Kohut at bedside.

Akron Children's Emily Cooper Welty Expressive Therapy Center will showcase Dereon's art in its open house exhibit on June 6.

Click here to read the article and watch the video clip:

http://www.newsnet5.com/news/local-news/akron-canton-news/paralyzed-girl-6-uses-her-mouth-to-create-art-at-akron-childrens-hospital

Lake, Geauga counties kick off May as Mental Health Month

Sat, 03 May 2014 12:21:22 GMT

Posted in the News-Herald by John Arthur Hutchison on 5/2/14

Around 200 pieces of art are on display through the end of May at the show sponsored by the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services board.

PHOTOS: Expressions of Recovery

This year marks the 23rd annual show, which is a showcase of work created by area artists who have a brain disorder such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or clinical depression or an addiction. The event is also a way for the ADAMHS board to promote and kick off the celebration of May as Mental Health Month

For the complete article click here:

http://www.news-herald.com/general-news/20140502/lake-geauga-counties-kick-off-may-as-mental-health-month

"Tree of Creation"

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 15:40:38 GMT

Published in Pain Pathways magazine, Spring 2014 edition.

painpathways.kurt.pdf

"Tree of Creation" is featured on pp 34-35 and highlights Reverend Kurt Fondriest, Ph.D, MFA, REAT, ATR, CPC. Revered Fondriest shares how he uses his own art process as a form of self expression to heal from with the chronic pain of fibromyalgia. Reverend Fondreist's artwork has also been exhibited in a series of art shows inspired by the Wheel of Life at the Life Force Art Center in Chicago, IL. This theme is warrior and companion.

"The Old and Prayful"

Reverend Fondriest writes, "The old and Prayful" reflects on the body being the warrior of age and time. The companion is the act of his hands in the pray posture which signifies his faith has been his companion.

"When Fine Art Helps the Healing Art"

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 20:07:51 GMT

Posted April 17, 2014 on Cleveland radio station WCPN http://www.ideastream.org/soi/entry/61197

Guests:

Tom Schorgl, President and CEO, Community Partnership for Arts and Culture
Kristen Puch, Director of Research and Advancement, Community Partnership for Arts and Culture
Joanne Cohen, Executive Director, Cleveland Clinic Art Program
Jennifer Schwartz-Wright, Executive Director, Art Therapy Studio

BATA President, Jacky Martin, reviewed the program:

The radio interview/presentation held this morning, April 17th, on Clevelandstation WCPN was informative, educational, and underscored the power of both art and music therapies at hospitals in the Cleveland area. "Creative Minds in Medicine" is supported through the Community Partnership for Arts and Culture in Cleveland.

"The Sound of Ideas" was the title of this broadcast. Jennifer Schwartz Wright, the Executive Director of the community-based Art Therapy Studio in

Cleveland, participated in this very conscientious and thought-provoking radio program. Jennifer gave a brief and thorough overview of the development of art therapy in Cleveland, citing Dr. George Streeter, MD and psychiatrist as the initiator of the art therapy program at Highland View Hospital in 1967. Jennifer made many succinct and comprehensive statements as to the nature of how art-making is therapeutic. "People have been using art to heal when they started making drawings in the sand," Jennifer said when asked how art therapy evolved. Jennifer emphasized how making art helps so many patients with a multiplicity of diagnoses and health concerns. The individual's art is another voice that can speak when a person has a stroke, serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, or perhaps Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. When asked about the interpretation of an individual's art work, Jennifer replied that is done with the individual, as each person has their own unique mindset of what imagery or symbols may mean to them. Artwork can also give information to the physicians as to how the individual appears to be functioning in several ways.

Discussion followed on how public health issues can be addressed through the visual arts. Tom Schorgl, the CEO of the Community Partnership for Arts and Culture, made reference to the AIDS quilt. That quilt made many people more aware of this illness across the country. Tom also commented on the commercial of several years ago that used scrambled eggs as a visual metaphor for "Your brain on drugs" and how effective that commercial was.

The benefits of both art and music therapies were enumerated to include how individuals can relax and feel less stress and anxiety, and be distracted in a healthy way while participating; and can also help people to deal more effectively with trauma and transitions in life. There was more discussion on other topics such as the need for more research to demonstrate that art and music therapies are effective treatment strategies, and also the benefits of making art when one is not dealing with illness.

Directors of arts and art therapy organizations were also on this broadcast, which included the Cleveland Clinic,

University Hospitals and Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital. Several people sent e-mails to the radio station and also called in to the broadcast.

Thank you, Jennifer, for being such a wonderful and outstanding spokesperson for art therapy.

"Who Say's It's a Sunset - What A Patient's Artwork Tells Us"

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 18:42:07 GMT

Article written by Board-Registered Art Therapist, Barbara Trauger-Querry, MA, ATR-BC in NewsLine - The Monthly Membership Publication of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, February 2014. February_14_NL.pdf

Veterans art therapy featured in exhibition at Tri-C gallery

Fri, 07 Feb 2014 15:47:01 GMT

The 14th Annual art and healing exhibit presented by Tri-C’s Art and Art Therapy departments and Ursuline College’s Art Therapy and Counseling department. The exhibit, “art.speak.heal: Honoring Veteran Stories,” also will include lectures and workshops. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Some 150 works of art created by veterans, their families and art therapy students will be featured in the exhibition "art.speak.heal: Honoring Veteran Stories," Feb. 13 to March 6 on the Eastern Campus of Cuyahoga Community College.

Maryann Sender, BATA Clinical Chair and Tri-C’s art therapy coordinator, said the artwork was provided by veterans or their families, art therapy students and organizations that work with troubled veterans.

Click on this link http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2014/02/veterans_art_therapy_featured.html to read the full article written by: Brian Albrecht, The Plain Dealer

Advocacy and Empowerment through Art: Art Therapy and Counseling Students Send Sock Monkey Delegation to South Africa

Wed, 23 Oct 2013 11:42:02 GMT

The blog post was written by Gretchen Miller, MA, ATR-BC, CTC-S, Adjunct Professor for Art Therapy and Counseling at Ursuline College in the Mosiac - The Ursuline College Blog.

http://ucmosaic.com/2013/10/20/advocacy-and-empowerment-through-art-art-therapy-and-counseling-students-send-sock-monkey-delegation-to-south-africa/

Art helps patients deal with a serious illness

Fri, 18 Oct 2013 12:47:09 GMT

Dawn Freeman, an art therapist for the Cleveland Clinic North Coast Cancer Campus in Margaretta Township, came up with the idea for the exhibit and put it together with other art therapists. It’s a traveling exhibit that began at a gallery in Beachwood and will be shown later at Lorain County Community College.

New exhibit at the Sandusky Cultural Center

Article written by: Tom Jackson, Sandusky Register on Oct 17, 2013

http://www.sanduskyregister.com/article/4777156

Emily Cooper Welty Expressive Therapy Center at Akron Children's Hospital

Tue, 06 Aug 2013 20:07:18 GMT

Published on Aug 6, 2013

Molly Kohut, the art therapy coordinator at the Emily Cooper Welty Expressive Therapy Center at Akron Children's Hospital, discussed the center's benefits to hospitalized children, especially those experiencing extended stays. Originally aired on WFMJ on August 5, 2013.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AB-YR76VgiU

Umbrellas For Peace Project

Sat, 20 Jul 2013 15:46:49 GMT

Ursuline College Art Therapy and Counseling graduate student Diane Fleisch Hughes presents the Umbrellas For Peace project as part of her thesis research, exploring how to strengthen and build community through shared art making.
Umbrellas for Peace - Chagrin Valley Times.pdf
Umbrellas for Peace - Solon Chagrin Sun.pdf

Ursuline College: Art Therapy and Counseling Faculty and Students on Service Trip in El Salvador

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:38:21 GMT

Posted April 16, 2013 on Ursuline College website: http://www.ursuline.edu/news/ATC_Trip_Blog

Ursuline College & Cuyahoga Community College combine for art therapy exhibit

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 20:21:27 GMT

Published on 3/21/2013 in the Chagrin Solon Sun

triC-Art-Therapy.jpg

Mills Lawn School’s Project Peace— Kids learn to make art, not war

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 14:53:01 GMT

Published March 21, 2013 by Anisa Kline in YSNews.com

ysnews.com-Mills_Lawn_Schools_Project_Peace_Kids_learn_to_make_art_not_war.pdf

Those who create art find peace, joy in creation

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 01:45:21 GMT

Published on 3/4/13, in The Blade, by Tahree Lane

Those who create art. The Blade.pdf

Integrating Art and Medicine: Arts incorporated into treatment at OSU medical facility

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 02:19:09 GMT

The following news article was written by Misti Crane, Editor for The Columbus Dispatch. Through the use of poetry, patient's find comfort and healing as they cope with their medical issues.Arts @ OSU Medical Facility. Misti Crane.pdf

Mental Health Day Podcast #5: Art Therapy with Cathy Malchiodi

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 23:27:31 GMT

Internationally known art therapist, Cathy Malchiodi visits the Mental Health Day Podcast to talk about what Art Therapy is, who it is for and how it helps. Cathy also highlights the Buckeye Art Therapy Association and supports art therapists' efforts to achieve art therapy licensure in Ohio. Ohio art therapist, Mickie McGraw, is also mentioned about the amazing work she is doing as well. See if you can guess which artist with mental health problems reference Dr. Finnerty quickly jumped to.

Click here to listen to the podcast: http://www.mentalhealthday.org/show/mental-health-day-podcast-5-art-therapy-with-cathy-malchiodi

Art Therapy: Cathy Malchiodi at TEDxOverlandPark

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:36:45 GMT

Cathy Malchiodi, PhD, LPAT, LPCC, ATR-BC is the first person and art therapist to speak to the world at TEDxOverland Park about the power and potential of art therapy as a "game changer" in people's lives.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

Cathy Malchiodi, PhD, LPAT, LPCC, ATR-BC, is a leading international expert, syndicated writer, and educator in the fields of art therapy and art in healthcare. She is a research psychologist, a Board Certified and Licensed Professional Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and has had over 25 years of experience and education in trauma intervention and disaster relief and integrative approaches to health. Cathy is the founder, director and lead faculty member of the Trauma-Informed Practices Institute, dedicated to teaching trauma-informed intervention that integrates neurodevelopment, somatic approaches, mindfulness, and positive psychology. In particular, it supports the use of creative arts therapies including art therapy, music therapy and movement therapy, play therapy, integrative expressive arts therapies, and mind-body approaches for recovery and wellness in children, adults and families. Cathy is also the President of Art Therapy Without Borders and is one of its founders. Cathy is a member of the Buckeye Art Therapy Association.

You can find Dr. Cathy Malchiodi's TEDx talk here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=yHu6909NTTc

The Healing Arts: Being creative offers a way to deal with anxiety. We talked to therapists after the Sandy Hook shootings.

Sat, 29 Dec 2012 05:38:47 GMT

Published: Friday, December 28, 2012, Dayton Daily News

http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/lifestyles/the-healing-arts-expression-empowerment/nTf57/

SLU Students Learn Art of Paper Making - WWNY TV 7

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 01:30:00 GMT

http://www.wwnytv.com/news/local/SLU-Students-Learn-Art-Of-Paper-Making-171233771.html

Art therapists help others find a voice - THE PLAIN DEALER

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Sun, 06 May 2012 22:01:22 GMT

May 6 art therapy.pdf

Art therapy brings color to dull hospital stays - THE BEACON JOURNAL

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 22:04:26 GMT

http://www.ohio.com/lifestyle/powell/art-therapy-brings-color-to-dull-hospital-stays-1.284263

News Hospice patient Betty Trynovich finds calm through artwork (with video)

Molly (Mary) Kometiani — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 21:43:43 GMT

Published: March 20, 2012 - THE NEWS HERALD
http://news-herald.com/articles/2012/03/20/news/doc4f68b03e699d5455517021.txt

January 2009 - Exhibit shows artists' PLAN for dealing with mental illness - Solon

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 03:30:00 GMT

Exhibit shows artists' PLAN for dealing with mental illness - Cleveland.com/Sun

Solon Sun Article Jan09

What makes a house a home? - Cleveland, OH

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:18:09 GMT

Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity

As part of the American Art Therapy Association (AATA) conference in Cleveland, AATA members took part in a service project benefiting Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity. They created a large-scale mural themed "What Makes a House a Home?" for the Restore at Habitat's new Cleveland headquarters. More than 60 18-inch square canvases were sent from art therapists around the country. On November 19, art therapy volunteers worked all day to assemble the works on six giant boards that now hang along the "check-out" wall at the ReStore. Click here for pictures.

"We were both blessed and overwhelmed by the beauty of the project," said Jeffrey Bowen, Executive Director of Cleveland Habitat. In addition to the mural project, members of the Buckeye [Ohio] Art Therapy Association donated 100 art supply kits for the children of Habitat Partner Families.

http://www.communityshares.org/enewsletter/e_newsletter_december_2008.htm

Violent toys converted into peace sculptures

Sat, 22 Nov 2008 06:00:00 GMT

By Damon Sims, The Plain Dealer

Art therapists took plastic knives, play guns, miniature military men and other toys that represent violence and transformed them into symbols of peace.

The sculptures that evolved are a project of the American Art Therapy Association's "Piece to Peace Cleveland Project." The association is holding its 39th annual American Art Therapy Conference in Cleveland at the Renaissance until Monday.

The sculptures that were created were to be unveiled at a reception Friday night at the Lake Erie Artists Gallery in Tower City and then donated to four Cleveland agencies: the Domestic Violence Center of Greater Cleveland, the Latino Domestic Violence Project, the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center and Boy's Village.

The Piece to Peace Project was an outgrowth of the associations' art committee goal to bring attention to youth violence while making a connection to the city that hosts the conference.

Art therapists from across the country collected "violent toys" that represent several themes, including using violence to settle disputes and toys that promote violence as fun.

The toys were deconstructed and with the guidance of professional sculptors, the art therapists created five works of art.

One three-foot tall sculpture took the shape of a phoenix, with pink, blue, red and yellow feathers sharing its chicken wire armature with toy soldiers and pieces of plastic guns.

"It is natural for art therapists to address issues of social concern through creativity, art making and human interaction," said Robin Valicenti, an art therapist from Philadelphia who developed the Piece to Peace Project.

The American Art Therapy Association is made up of mental health professionals who use art making to help improve individuals' physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Art at the Heart of Therapy - Akron/Canton Ohio.com

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:30:19 GMT

Art at the heart of therapy
Working with clay, watercolors or other media good diversion for mind and body

By Cheryl Powell
Beacon Journal medical writer

Published: July 22, 2008 - 12:12 AM CANTON: Betty Dennis and her daughters are discovering that there's definitely an art to dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Shelly Chatterelli of Perry Township works with clay during an art therapy class taught by Karen Elvin July 9 at Mercy Medical Center in Canton. (Paul Tople / Akron Beacon Journal)

Judy DeHoff of Massillon (right) works with clay in an art therapy class taught by Karen Elvin July 9 at Mercy Medical Center in Canton. (Paul Tople / Akron Beacon Journal

Karen Elvin teaches an art therapy class at Mercy Medical Center in Canton. (Paul Tople / Akron Beacon Journal)

Full Article:Art at the heart of therapy - Ohio.com - 2008.pdf

Mickie McGraw - Author and source unknown - Cleveland - HLM

Tue, 01 May 2007 13:43:31 GMT

Some people are like magnets. They draw creative ideas, people, and the resources to establish institutions that create community locally and throughout the world. Such is the power of Mary Kathleen McGraw, more fondly known as Mickie. In 1967 she co-founded The Art Therapy Studio (ATS) at Highland View Rehabilitation Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio (now MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio), along with Dr. George Streeter. First known as the Art Studio, the agency will be celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2007.

See full article for more about Art Therapy Studio and Mickie McGraw.

MickieArticle2007.pdf