Guest Blog, Part 2: How Does Art Therapy Help Manage Violence?

Welcome to Part 2 of a guest blog post from Philip Whitelock, owner at RCMA. He specializes in self-defense training, but also works on education about preventing violence in the first place. Philip is doing a 3-part special series for Adventures in Art Therapy, and I am thrilled to have him be a guest blogger here!

In this video, Philip talks about how oftentimes, people will start to display verbal and nonverbal precursors to violence before they end up lashing out in an extremely violent manner.  So how does something like art therapy work in regards to managing violence?  It can be a healthy outlet for the triggers and feelings that can lead to violent tendencies, which can help prevent violence from happening by allowing the individual to release negative feelings and to express themselves about these issues before they get to a boiling point.

Listen below for more...

Guest Blog, Part 1: What Connection Do Art Therapy and Violence Have?

Welcome to Part 1 of a guest blog post from Philip Whitelock, owner at RCMA. He specializes in self-defense training, but also works on education about preventing violence in the first place. Philip is doing a 3-part special series for Adventures in Art Therapy, and I am thrilled to have him be a guest blogger here!

Here he talks about how violence is a form of expression, especially when people are having difficulty articulating emotions and feelings. When people act out with physical violence, there is almost always a "message" behind it. So if violence is a way of expressing oneself and making art is also another method of self-expression, can art replace violence in some situations? Can something like Art Therapy help prevent physical violence by allowing an outlet for people to communicate negative feelings and emotions in a healthier way?

Listen below for more....

Online Safety Guide for People with Autism

I was alerted to this guide that assists with online safety tips specifically geared for people with ASD, but it can be helpful for everyone as well. Check it out!

https://www.wizcase.com/blog/internet-safety-guide-for-people-with-autism-spectrum-disorders/

 

Virginia Art Therapy License Passes!

Brief news from the VATA camp:

"Governor Northam approved Virginia SB713,
Licensure for Professional Art Therapists,
effective July 1, 2020."

Follow the path of the license here.

I assume more details will be more forthcoming, but it's great to hear that the Art Therapy License is finally passed in Virginia, and effective much sooner than I expected. Here is AATA's reporting on the progress and passing of the DC and VA licenses.  Stay tuned here for more information!