N/NY-0305 - The Secret World of the Elderly: A Studio Approach that Raises Awareness

Description

Studio art therapy benefits the elderly and people with Alzheimer's by creating a space for expression, decision-making, and social interaction at a time when choices might otherwise be limited. Taking this approach into retirement homes can raise self-esteem, provide a sense of purpose, and empower residents. This course provides an overview of the challenges and benefits of contracting art therapy as well as specific projects and interventions that can be used with this population.

Learning Objectives

List three ways studio art therapy benefits the elderly.
Describe at least two interventions that can be modified for use with people who have Alzheimer’s disease.
Identify at least two challenges and two advantages of contract work.

Emery Mikel

Founder and Director, Water & Stone

Emery H. Mikel, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, LCPAT provided studio art therapy to the elderly and people living with dementia throughout the Washington, DC area until her relocation to Huntington, NY. She created and conducted her own contract service with 15-20 retirement homes. She studied Transpersonal Art Therapy at Naropa University. She is the founder and director of Water & Stone: a transpersonal and contemplative creative arts therapy collective. She also mentors therapists, supervises interns, and guest lectures at George Washington University and Nazareth College. She received her MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology: Art Therapy from Naropa University in Boulder, CO.