With extensive experience supporting clients facing medical trauma, grief, behavioral health challenges, and more in both inpatient and outpatient care, Dana has witnessed firsthand how navigating often sudden medical changes can impact one's life. When pursuing a career choice in college, she stumbled upon an art therapy program and thought, "Did I just find a career that combines my passion for psychology, art, and helping people?" As a young adult who lived in the art studio and experienced the healing properties that art and therapy holds, she knew this was her path. Growing up, her parents understood early on the importance of therapy and how it can help individuals on many levels, exposing her to a variety of therapeutic settings starting at an early age, all while creating art for fun.

Outside the therapy room, Dana enjoys crafting, DIY projects, and spending time in nature with friends and family. She also loves games and puzzles, which help her stay playful and connected to her inner child.

• Medical Settings Specialist
  Any type of medical condition or illness is a life-changing event that impacts not just the individual but the entire family unit. Loss is also a significant component, as loss comes in many forms: loss of a loved one, loss of an ability, loss of autonomy, loss and/or disruption of routine or daily living activities. Working alongside hospital staff in both psychiatric and medical settings, inpatient and outpatient, Dana has witnessed how art therapy can help by processing feelings, managing stress, working through medical trauma, and providing support through these difficult life changes. Art therapy can foster a sense of community in a space that may feel isolating and can help ease the healing process.

• Creative Expression Beyond Words
  Dana found that she could say things with color and shapes that she couldn't say any other way, things she had no words for. She helps clients discover new ways to express themselves, explore emotions, and find meaning beyond words. Children engaged in art therapy directives may feel as if they are playing and having fun rather than "in therapy," which can help foster a safe space for expression and aid in framing the therapeutic relationship.

• Adult Burnout and Caregiver Support
  Often, adulthood can feel more like we're taking care of everyone else rather than ourselves. We find ourselves juggling multiple tasks, schedules, hobbies, and our lives can start to feel like they're on autopilot. We can easily lose track of ourselves and the aspects of our lives that maintain our happiness, well-being, goals, and overall self-care. Dana helps adults put their lives into perspective and gain tools to manage stress, anxiety, hardships, and communication through creative outlets and coping techniques.