Fulltime Diploma Graduates

2001 – Edmonton, Alberta

Hello! It has been a few years since I graduated from VATI, but in some ways it feels like just yesterday. I was hired as an art therapist at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, where I have been working for almost five years now. I work in a program called “Arts in Medicine” with adult cancer patients and their family members. I also work with children who have a parent with cancer, or have lost a parent to cancer.

Working with art therapy with these populations is very rewarding. It is through their art that people come to insights about their cancer journey and experience that words have not begun to describe for them. The personal growth and insight many experience working with issues from body image to grief, and end of life issues are immense. Soapstone carving, clay sculpture, photography, collage, and painting are a few examples of some of the art therapy groups that have evolved.

My learning in this setting has been great, and I am still learning. Yes, I am also back taking a Master of Counselling through the CAAP Program, and plan to complete my course work this year. I am in the process of applying for CATA registration, and I hope to start a small art therapy private practice in the near future. Oh, and on a personal note, Kev and I also had a little girl, Kiera, in January, 2004. Life is busy but good! All the best to everyone! Take care! 

- Carolyn Husky

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