Our challenge, as parents, educators, professionals and community members, is to better understand youth mental illness, to increase the identification of children with mental health issues, and to improve their access to quality mental health services and supports. We invite you to experience the skill, courage, and emotional resources of the children featured in this art exhibit. We encourage you to participate in the any of the related activities presented here, whether it is a lecture, film, or performance. We hope you leave with a better understanding and appreciation of the challenges and strengths of our youth, and inspiration to make a greater difference in their lives. All of the following presentations are free and open to the public.
All sites are wheelchair accessible.
Continuing Education Units for counselors, art therapists, and social workers have been applied for and will be presented at the conclusion of each presentation. NW Panel Discussion followed by Reception - S ponsored by New Mexico Art Therapy Association Respecting and nurturing the creative process is essential to success in both teaching and art therapy. Panelists will share how their art therapy training enhances their varied work in school settings. They will also show how the art therapist can inform the educator about aspects of a child s world, which directly impact that student s classroom performance. Ideas will be offered on how teachers in all disciplines can use the ways of art to enhance student creativity, expression, and initiative while reducing classroom stress and fostering a greater sense of well being.