Art Is Therapy

With a background in art and cultural studies, Cherish shares her love of art making with others in a therapeutic environment that fosters connection, mindfulness and creative coping skills. She works with children and youth dealing with issues including; anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, social skills, behavioural awareness and modification. In her work with Vancouver Coastal Health as an Art Therapist for youth dealing with mental health and substance abuse, she uses a trauma informed approach to encourage self healing and reparation.

What Is Art Therapy?

Sometimes words are not enough or simply not available. That’s where the healing nature of Art Therapy comes in. It combines visual art and psychotherapy through the process of art making. This is a no pressure place where previous conceptions of “artist” are left behind. I help facilitate your own unique creative process to build a foundation for self-exploration, healing and mind/body awareness. For many children and youth, not every emotion or feeling can be expressed through words. By creating a safe space for them to unfold their difficult feelings, they can learn to express themselves and build self-awareness.

A Little Bit About Me…

I have been working and playing in many creative fields over the course of my career. Becoming an Art Therapist felt like a natural journey to combine all of my passions and experiences in one place. My belief has always been that art making can be a powerful source of pleasure, communication and healing. My passion is helping children and youth within the community flourish to their full potential.

When I’m not art making, you can find me with my nose in several books, plunging into cold waters, walking my dogs, laughing loudly, and dreaming of new adventures near and far.

Bachelor of Arts, Art and Culture Studies, Simon Fraser University (BA)
Diploma, (Masters Level), Vancouver Art Therapy Institute (DVATI)
Registered Therapeutic Counsellor, Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (RTC)