Purpose

To provide safe nonjudgemental space to creatively practice skills, express thoughts, and emotions, develop strengths and individuality. As well as an opportunity to build a support network with peers and group facilitators.

• Participant Details – Open to adolescents who may struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity development, and building peer relationships.
• Date & Time – Meets Wednesdays 6 – 7pm, at Josselyn (1850 Oak Street, Northfield, IL)
• Framework – This group begins with brief check-ins before introducing the topic of the day. The art therapist’s provide tools, supplies, and instructions for therapeutic art making. Clients are encouraged to openly create in ways that highlight their unique identity and life experiences. No artistic experience is required. All participants are viewed as “artists” in art therapy. The therapist’s challenge negative self-talk and help foster positive connections between group members. Clients engage in social interactions throughout while upholding the guidelines of group therapy. Clients are empowered to share their artworks and participate in therapeutic group discussions guided by the art therapists. This group concludes with taking joint ownership of the therapy space while cleaning up and transitioning back to parents/guardians. Artwork can be stored in the art room short-term and belongs to the client.
• Facilitators – Alex Burg, LPC, ATR-P and Hannah Kaplan, MA

To learn more about this group, please discuss the referral process with your primary therapist.