Classes and Workshops for Adults and Teens:

NEW! Art in Mind

An art based approach to health and wellness, goal setting and creative development.

Art in Mind

What is Art in Mind?

After over two decades of witnessing the therapeutic effect of creating art, Aliki is now offering one-on-one sessions and using art as therapy in a counseling setting.

Art in Mind

What is the first session like?

During the first session, we will do an intake where you will fill out an information form and circle any areas you would like help in, very similar to the list below. This usually takes about 15 minutes. From there you will be offered a wide variety of art supplies to choose from and you will be asked to simply use the materials without creating any sort of picture. Remember, this is not an art class. Next, you will be asked to do some writing and from there we will discuss findings.

Art in Mind

What have others said about the process?

"I really liked the music, the supplies being so handy to grab, the fact that you let me do whatever I wanted--no pressure. I really liked the fact that we could talk or not as we worked. Your interaction afterwards, affirmed me."

"I loved the warmth of the studio; it is a nice intimate space--sort of cocoon like, safe. I liked the fact that I knew that no one else could hear what we were saying because of the ocean sounds in the lobby."

"After the session I again felt that it is not easy to change. Working on ourselves takes persistence and consideration. Doing it with art I felt that there was a gentle approach. Also, I felt safe with you!"

“When I began layering the materials on the paper, I felt unsure of what it was to look like; then, I just let go and allowed it to simply be pleasing to my eye.  If I did something that I did not like I simply found a way to change it or cover it.  Eventually it was extremely freeing. 
Afterward we discussed the finished product and it amazingly seemed to depict what was going on in my head.  The writing was, likely, my favourite part.  I felt I could simply not write as fast as my mind was thinking (what a fantastic experience).  It could be called therapeutic writing as it was not like any journal writing I have ever done.  Once I closed my little journal we did not look at it again; though, I went back to it later that evening and was amazed to find I could hardly recall what I had written.
I am very excited about my next session!”

Art in Mind

Do I need to be artistic in order to come to a session?

No. Art experience is irrelevant to this process. The art is simply the vehicle that will aid you in your self- discovery.

What is Art as Therapy?

There is an inherent healing power in the creative process of art making. This view embraces the idea that the process of making art is therapeutic. Art making is seen as an opportunity to express one’s self imaginatively, authentically and spontaneously. Over time, this can lead to personal fulfillment, emotional wellness and recovery.
Art as Therapy is also a means of symbolic communication. Whether the client uses paint or clay, art expression is helpful in communicating issues, emotions and conflicts. This begins the verbal dialogue between the client and counselor and helps achieve insight, resolve conflicts, and solve problems. These new perceptions in turn lead to positive changes, growth and healing.

How is Art as Therapy different from an Art Class?

The process of using art in a therapeutic setting is different because it takes you out of your conscious thinking brain and brings you to your unconscious brain which not only helps to solve challenges but can also simply put you in touch with what you are thinking or feeling. Most clients feel that something is resolved in the very first session whether they can verbalize it or not.  On the other hand art classes focus on skills, techniques and the end product looking a certain way.

What areas could I choose to work on?

(Please note that #1 and #2 are more process oriented as shown in the photos below. #3 is both process and end product oriented.)

1. Health and Wellness

Using a variety of art and written exercises, you will experience for yourself the life-changing effects of art. Look at the following list and see whether these are some of your challenges that you might like to explore:

2. Goal Setting

Studies show that creating your goal via art helps to embed the goal on a physiological level to help you reach the goal faster and in a more natural way. Are you transitioning in life? Need change? Or has change come upon you unexpectedly? Perhaps you need to clarify what you would like to do next. All of this can be accomplished using exercises to help guide your journey.

3. Creative Development

If you would like to unleash your creativity, one way is to learn how to see the world through the eyes of an artist. You will be walked through a series of exercises that teach you the skill of drawing and how it pertains to your current life situation. Areas of interest are listed below:

Session Information:

All sessions are strictly confidential.

Please arrive at your first session 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time.

Cost: $85/hour for first session
Second session is complimentary.
All other sessions: $85/hour
NOTE: Most insurance carriers will reimburse you for your sessions, depending on your plan. Check with your insurance provider.
Location:

Art in Mind
#205- 8 Parkdale Crescent N.W.
Calgary, Alberta

To book an appointment contact:
Alice (Aliki) Rathgeber, B.Ed., Art as Therapy Counsellor
info@AlikisArtHouse.com
403 667 7020

Arts Combo

NEW! This 8 week class features a wonderful combination of fine art teaching from 2D to 3D art. We will be exploring 2 classes in each of the following areas: drawing, sculpture, jewellery making and book making/binding. All stages of art experience are welcome from beginner to advanced. The class is small so you will receive individual attention as needed. A fun class that will take you back to what it feels like to be a kid again--playing, enjoying and creating without the need to make things perfect. You will love the results!
All materials are included in fee.

Day: Saturdays
Date: September 24 - November 12, 2011
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon
Location: Edgemont Community Centre
Cost: $250 (includes all materials and supplies)

For more information or to register for courses please contact us at:
info@alikisarthouse.com

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