Art Therapy

Art therapy is a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. A goal in art therapy is to improve or restore a client’s functioning and his or her sense of personal well-being. Art therapy practice requires knowledge of visual art (drawing, painting, sculpture, and other art forms) and the creative process, as well as of human development, psychological, and counseling theories, and techniques.

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Alison Harriot ’20

“My art is a timeline of my growth. I have developed a lot of trust and love for myself and others, which I don’t believe would have happened had I not followed my dream.”
Tessa Turner ’20

“I believe it is my duty to use my privilege within society to promote equality and power for those within marginalized communities.”
Benazir Sardar ’20

Art making has been a natural inclination since childhood, as has my love for people. Learning how to support others through the magic of creation is an honor!

Teacher education professor launches children’s literature blog to create More Shelf Awareness

The objective of this blog as a course tool is linked to culturally responsive teaching practices—recognizing the importance of including students’ cultural references in all aspects of learning.
Art therapy instructor brings art-making opportunities to east Portland community

What does a block party look like in east Portland? During the second annual Arte Soleil block party held on September 14, it looked like dozens of families spending a summer day building community and having crafty fun.
Art Therapy professor Mary Andrus spearheads pivotal art therapy legislation

Spearheaded and championed by Professor Mary Andrus, new legislation signed into law by Oregon Governor Kate Brown (JD ’85) earlier this year will create new licensure requirements and protections for art therapists practicing in Oregon.