The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) stands in strong opposition to the national trend of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation typified by Florida's Parental Rights in Education bill, colloquially known as the "Don't Say Gay" bill. The legislation, which was passed by the Florida legislature, bans "classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity" in primary grade levels; requires parental permission for any health care services students receive; and encourages parents to take legal action against school districts they believe to be in violation of the law.

The American Art Therapy Association Education Committee is currently looking for new professional members and student members at each level of art therapy education. Join us as we develop recommendations for education standards, support accreditation of art therapy education programs, and further continuing education possibilities!

We are excited to invite you to submit a proposal to present at the American Art Therapy Association’s 53rd Annual Conference to be held in Minneapolis, MN, November 9 -13, 2022! Proposals must be submitted online by April 3, 2022.

 Across Fort Worth, people are turning to visual and performing arts to help them process traumatic events. Painting, making pottery or learning the lines from a play can help put people on the path to healing; therapists and community leaders say.

"Our unique goal for Greater Impact House is to provide a space free of the influence from vices like alcohol, cannabis, gaming, gambling and more, so artists have a cathartic experience with their authentic selves while creating their art," said Vlachos.”

Many people have leaned into crafting, from knitting to beading to adult coloring books, during the pandemic. The stresses of the past two years have taken an emotional toll on Americans of all ages.

The Charleston County School District is taking action to meet the mental health needs of its students after a report in December showed a disturbing increase in concerning behavior.

Hearing about a cancer diagnosis at any age is life changing, But there is something especially challenging when it’s a child. It’s why the Feel Better Foundation works daily to bring some light to the darkness cancer can bring to these families.

“Are you as a therapist able to understand people’s pain in a real sense? Without that ability where are you going with that therapy session?” Miki Goerdt, clinical social worker, board-certified art therapist, owner of Emerald Leaf Counseling LLC and artist, joins the podcast to share the influences that shape our paths to self-awareness.