N/NY-0306 - Artful Gerotranscendence: Life Satisfaction for Elders Through Creative Engagement

Description

This course provides an overview of the developmental theory of gerotranscendence, which explains that many older adults experience the awakening of a shift from a more rational, materialistic worldview to a holistic and spiritual attitude. Art therapy supports this growth through the creative, meditative, and reminiscent qualities of artistic engagement. This course provides art therapy activities and techniques for working with this population.

Learning Objectives

Describe foundational characteristics of the theory of gerotranscendence.
Adapt art therapy activities to elicit expression of gerotranscendence in clients.
Modify and use art therapy materials to meet elders’ needs.

Deborah Little Bear

Deborah Little Bear, MA, ATR, Certified Gerontologist, is a Registered Art Therapist, a Certified Gerontologist and a past Membership Director of the Northern California Art Therapy Association. She has worked with elders in clinical, transitional care and residential settings in Sonoma and Marin County, California for fourteen years.

Isabel Lenssen

Brattleboro Retreat Opoid Treatment Program

Isabel Lenssen, MA, MFA, ATR, LMFT works at the Brattleboro Retreat Opoid Treatment Program and is a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer providing psychological first aid to clients in disasters.

Barbara Petterson

Barbara Petterson, MS, MA, LMFT, ATR,provides art therapy in private practice, including individual and group therapy. She also serves as a clinical supervisor. She specializes in working with older adults, and is interested in the development of art practice and artist identity in art therapists and their clients.