[Self-Study] RE-8 Exploration of Art Therapy and Nature: A Pandemic, Happiness and Life Satisfactions

Dr. Deborah Elkis-Abuhoff is an Associate Professor and Program Director of the Creative Arts Therapy Counseling program at Hofstra University, and holds an Appointment at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Center of Neuroscience. She has extensive experience incorporating the use of artwork in the therapeutic process. The focus of her work is to bring art therapy to the medical population.

Morgan Gaydos currently practices art therapy within a forensic psychiatry unit in a hospital setting, and has experience with inpatient/detoxification chemical dependency programs, children diagnosed within the autism spectrum, and within a private practice. Research efforts, through publication and presentation, focus on art therapy and neuroscience.

Erin Poland (she/her) is a creative arts therapist who supports children, teens, and young adults in building resilience, confidence, and grounding through life’s challenges. Using a strengths-based and holistic approach, Erin helps clients navigate big emotions, transitions, and unhelpful behavioral patterns while reconnecting to a sense of purpose and belonging. She integrates art therapy, EMDR, and DBT to support individuals living with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depression, and is committed to creating a validating, welcoming therapeutic space.

Skylar Sena is a Magna court reporter who brings together a background in journalism and creative writing, earned at Stony Brook University, to explore and tell compelling stories within the legal field. As both a journalist and creative writer, Skylar is driven to uncover the most intriguing narratives and present them with clarity and purpose. Skylar’s academic experience includes extensive coursework in literature and written reporting, along with hands-on roles as a managing editor of the university newspaper and an intern at a literary agency. Currently pursuing a master’s degree, Skylar continues to build on this foundation to tell the stories of tomorrow with accuracy, insight, and creativity.