Presenting: Tattoos, Art Therapy & Transformation: Beyond Embodied Embellishment at the LOS ANGELES Expressive Therapies Summit
Saturday April 17, 9 AM - 12 PM
Presenters:
Simone Alter Muri, E.d.D., ATR-BC, ATCS, LMHC
Eric Dean Spruth, M.A., PhD Candidate, ATR
Sarah Nangeroni, M.E.d. Candidate, CYT
Kaelani Loo, M.A. Candidate
Once considered “defilements" to the body, or merely thematic embellishments, tattoos have more recently become embodied signifiers of self-expression, identity, and self-esteem. However, they can also become sources of stigmatization and reminders of trauma. This 3-hour online workshop will explore the empowering, traumatizing, and transformative potential of tattoos, and how they can be integrated into art therapy…and vice-versa. We’ll highlight case material from Sacred Transformations, a specialized art therapy project that provides tattoo revisions and removals for former gang members and within the transgender community, among others. Basic tenets of cultural humility and appropriate language when working with marginalized communities, and how to adapt the therapeutic process to accommodate specific client needs, will be discussed. Participants will be introduced to at least one art-based tattoo-related activity that can be beneficial in working with adolescent and adult populations in treatment. Grounding and mindfulness will be woven into the art making and discussion throughout this workshop. Clinicians interested in learning ways to incorporate “tattoo-informed” approaches into their work with a wide range of clients are encouraged to participate.
Eligible for 3.0 Clock/Credit Hours: NBCC, ATCB; NASW, MFT; SWNYS, LMHC, LCAT (New York state only) Not eligible for APT Credits Simone Alter-Muri, Sarah Nangeroni,