Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy

Over the course of the last three years I have taken three courses with the Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute Learning Center.

Art Therapy was first introduced to me at Bishop's University. It was one of the optional courses for Art students to take as an elective course. The course introduced me to some of the techniques that are used in art therapy practices. After the course I was intrigued and wanted to take additional courses. That's when I found the Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute Learning Center.

"The centre is dedicated to promoting trauma-informed, expressive arts-based intervention that integrates neurodevelopment, somatic approaches, mindfulness, and principles of positive psychology. In particular, it supports the integrated, multi-modal use of creative arts including art, music/sound, dance/movement, dramatic enactment/performance, creative writing, play, integrative expressive arts therapies, and mind-body approaches for recovery and wellness in children, adults and families. These approaches assist individuals in learning how mind and body respond to the sensory aspects of traumatic events and how to enhance personal resilience and posttraumatic growth"(Malchiodi, 2010).

Since finding the Institute I have taken three courses:

- Introduction to Expressive Arts Therapy: History and Foundational Practice

- Resilience, Posttraumatic Growth & Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy Practice (Part 1)

- Resilience, Posttraumatic Growth & Trauma-Informed Expressive Arts Therapy Practice (Part 2)

The courses have all been online which I was weary of. However, I have thoroughly enjoyed this form of education. I am able to complete the assignments (written and artistic) and submit them online as pictures or documents. I am currently working towards my Level One, which requires 2 more courses. I'm looking forward to my continuing education journey.

For those interested in reading more about it I have included the website: https://www.trauma-informedpractice.com

Malchiodi, C. (2010). About Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute. Retrieved from Trauma-Informed Practices & Expressive Arts Therapy Institute: https://www.trauma-informedpractice.com/home/about-the-institute/