N/NY-0116 - Art Therapy for Chronic Stress

Description

Using findings from two mixed methods experimental studies conducted by the authors, the presentation will highlight the unique contributions of art therapy for adults facing chronic stress. Data include self-report, artwork, standardized measures of psychological well-being and salivary biomarkers.

Learning Objectives

Identify how chronic stress is manifested in the body through salivary biomarkers like cortisol, norepinephrine, amylase, epinephrine and dopamine.
Identify how chronic stress affects immune functions including biomarker cytokines like TNF alpha, IL-10 and IL6.
Name mixed method approaches to research and evaluation.

Dr. Girija Kaimal

AATA President

American Art Therapy Association

Dr. Girija Kaimal (EdD, MA, ATR-BC) is an Assistant Professor in the doctoral program in Creative Arts therapies at Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. She has a Bachelor's degree in design from the National Institute of Design in India; Master's degree in art therapy from Drexel University; and a doctorate in human development and psychology from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education. She also serves as the President of AATA and is an Assessment Fellow for Drexel University.

Jessica Drass

Wise Mind Creations

Jessica Masino Drass, MA, ATR-BC is a PhD Student and Research Fellow at Drexel University. She was previously an art therapist at a DBT-based womens trauma partial hospital program and a high school art teacher. She also has a Masters in School Psychology and owns a community art studio, Wise Mind Creations