Therapeutic Art: Mental Health First Aid

Michelle Epps and Cheryl Pete recently facilitated a free professional development session, Therapeutic Art: Mental Health First Aid, designed for artists, arts administrators, and mental health support professionals. The session explored how therapeutic art practices can teach valuable social and emotional skills to community members. Participants gained practical tools to foster self-expression and creativity, while also learning the distinction between therapeutic art and art therapy. The presenters emphasized that only licensed art therapists can provide art therapy services, but attendees left equipped to incorporate therapeutic art practices into their community work. This session provided valuable insights into the healing potential of art as a supportive resource for those in both the arts and mental health fields.