In the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, finding creative and meaningful pathways can profoundly impact our lives. Arts-based therapeutic workshops offer such pathways, providing a unique blend of creativity, self-exploration, and community connection. Constellations Counselling, located in Vancouver, BC, is thrilled to introduce two free online workshops: “Connection to Self” meeting March 6, 2024 to April 10, 2024 from 11am to 12:30pm and “Art for Connection” meeting March 6, 2024 to April 10, 2024 from 1pm to 2:30pm. These sessions are designed to guide participants through the realms of personal identity and community building using the therapeutic power of art.
The Essence of Arts-Based Therapeutic Workshops
Arts-based therapeutic workshops differ significantly from conventional art classes. In these sessions, facilitated by proficient therapists, art serves as a powerful tool for healing, reflection, and dialogue. These workshops provide a unique opportunity for participants to delve into creative expression as a means to navigate complex emotions, thoughts, and life experiences, often without relying solely on verbal communication.
At Constellations Counselling, our arts-based therapeutic workshops, particularly those conducted by our Intern Counsellors, are rooted in a profound comprehension of therapeutic art practices. These sessions are bolstered by rigorous training and consistent professional supervision. Although our Intern Counsellors lead these transformative workshops, their facilitation is closely overseen and enriched by the mentorship of a Registered Art Therapist. This synergy ensures that each workshop is not only based on professional therapeutic standards but also enriched with innovative and contemporary approaches to art therapy. Participants can rest assured that they are under the guidance of skilled professionals who are both knowledgeable in their practice and deeply committed to fostering a supportive and enlightening therapeutic environment.
Benefits of Attending Our Workshops
Self-Discovery Through Creativity
“Connection to Self” offers a unique opportunity to delve into the layers of who you are in a supportive and nurturing environment. Art-making in this context is a reflective practice, allowing individuals to express and explore their values, beliefs, and aspects of their identity that may be difficult to articulate verbally. The act of creating becomes a mirror, reflecting the creator’s inner world and facilitating a deeper understanding of oneself.
Building Connections Through Shared Experience
“Art for Connection” focuses on the power of art to foster community, empathy, and understanding. In a world where genuine connection can sometimes feel elusive, this workshop emphasizes creating alongside others, sharing stories, and witnessing each other’s creative journey. The shared experience of making art becomes a bridge, linking individuals through the universal language of creativity and human emotion.
Therapeutic Benefits Without the Stigma
Attending a therapeutic art workshop can offer many of the benefits of traditional therapy, such as reduced stress and increased emotional well-being, in a less formalized setting. This approach can be particularly appealing to those who might feel hesitant about seeking therapy due to stigma or uncertainty. The inclusive, welcoming nature of these workshops ensures that all participants can experience the healing aspects of art-making in a way that feels accessible and engaging.
A Safe Space to Explore and Express
Both workshops provide a safe, non-judgmental space for participants to express themselves freely. For many, especially Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), such environments are invaluable. They offer a haven where sensitivity is seen as a strength, allowing for authentic expression and exploration without fear of overwhelming criticism or misunderstanding.
Enhancing Emotional Intelligence and Resilience
Through guided art-making and reflection, participants develop greater emotional intelligence, learning to identify, understand, and express their feelings more effectively. This emotional articulation fosters resilience, equipping individuals with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.
What to Expect in the Workshop
Each workshop is carefully structured to maximize the benefits of art therapy while ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience for all attendees. Participants can expect:
Guided Art-Making: Facilitated by our Intern Counselling Art Therapists, sessions include structured activities designed to explore the workshop’s theme, whether it be self-connection or community building.
Reflection and Sharing: Opportunities for personal reflection and, if desired, sharing insights with the group. This process enhances the therapeutic benefits and fosters a sense of shared humanity.
Supportive Environment: An atmosphere of acceptance and encouragement, where all experiences and expressions are valid and valued.
Your Invitation
Embracing the Journey Together
The beauty of arts-based therapeutic workshops lies in their ability to bring people together on a journey of healing, discovery, and connection. “Connection to Self” and “Art for Connection” are more than events; they are invitations to embark on a transformative journey, with art as your guide and a community of supportive peers by your side.
As we navigate the complexities of life, finding spaces where we can explore our inner landscapes and connect with others on a meaningful level is essential. These workshops promise just that – an exploration of the self and a celebration of the bonds that unite us.
Join Us
We warmly invite you to join us in these free workshops, whether you’re an experienced artist or someone who has never picked up a paintbrush. No artistic skill is required – only an open heart and a willingness to explore. These workshops are just the beginning. Embark on this creative journey with us, and let’s see where the path of mindful art-making can lead.
Sign Up
Ready to embark on this creative journey with us? To register for our workshops, you have several options:
- Email Brooke at brooke@constellationscounselling.ca or Alleah at alleah@constellationscounselling.ca
- Register on Eventbrite: Connection to Self and Art for Connection
Please note these workshops are running from March 6, 2024 to April 10, 2024.
Meet Your Facilitators
Meet Brooke Porter: A Creative Force at Constellations Counselling. Pursuing her Master’s in Counselling Psychology and Art Therapy at Adler University, Brooke is refining her skills under the guidance of our Clinical Director, preparing to become a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Art Therapist.
With a rich background as a Behavioural Interventionalist and Community Inclusion Worker, Brooke excels in connecting with adults and Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), using art as a transformative tool for healing. Her practice is rooted in the belief that creative expression can unlock emotions and stories beyond what words can capture, guiding individuals on a path to self-discovery and healing.
Brooke’s approach combines person-centered and strengths-based methodologies with her creative insight, creating a nurturing space for clients to explore, reflect, and grow. Her goal is to empower each individual, recognizing their inherent resilience and assisting them in navigating life’s complexities. We’re excited to have Brooke on our team, where her compassion and innovative approach to therapy make her a valuable ally on your wellness journey.
Meet Alleah Bowring: A Beacon of Healing at Constellations Counselling. Currently advancing her skills at Adler University, Alleah is on her journey to accreditation as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Art Therapist, mentored by our Clinical Director to refine her supportive and empowering counselling skills.
With roots in yoga teaching and a deep conviction in art’s healing potential, Alleah integrates verbal and non-verbal techniques into her therapy sessions. She champions a collaborative, relational approach to healing, emphasizing the importance of a safe, supportive environment for creative narrative exploration and challenge resolution.
At the heart of Alleah’s counselling philosophy is the belief in the transformative power of safe, accepting spaces that encourage personal exploration and growth. She leverages movement and creativity as essential elements in self-discovery, aiming to foster wellness and joy. Alleah’s holistic methods are designed to cultivate therapeutic relationships grounded in safety, acceptance, and connectivity, customizing her approach to meet each client’s individual needs. Her focus is on empowering clients to navigate their lives with ease and fulfillment. Alleah’s compassionate presence and innovative therapeutic approach make her an invaluable member of our team, enhancing our collective endeavor to facilitate healing and personal growth.
In Closing
In the realm of self-discovery and community connection, the therapeutic power of art holds infinite possibilities. Whether you’re looking to deepen your relationship with yourself or forge meaningful connections with others, our workshops offer a compassionate, creative, and enriching experience.
At Constellations Counselling, we’re committed to offering pathways to healing and growth through the arts. If you’re curious about integrating mindfulness into your life or exploring your creative potential, consider meeting with one of our Vancouver counsellors. Together, we can discover the therapeutic power of art and its ability to illuminate the most intricate parts of our being.