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The Neuro Arts: Evidence-Based Paths to Healing and Transformation

Previously Recorded
Rus Devorah (Darcy) Wallen, LCSW, ACSW, CIMHP
$40.00 Cost For Member: $30

Across diverse cultures and throughout history, the inherent connection between humanity and art has been unmistakable and inseparable—a truth reaffirmed by modern research. Introducing the burgeoning field of Neuro Arts, inspired by the seminal work of Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross in "Your Brain On Art," this presentation will illuminate how various forms of artistic expression serve as potent catalysts for emotional, psychological, physical, and cognitive healing. Through a blend of scholarly inquiry and illuminating case studies, attendees will witness the transformative potential of Neuro Arts in therapeutic contexts. After this webinar, practitioners will be able to guide their clients through profound journeys of self-discovery when prior impasses have prevented such growth.

Participants are invited to embark on this didactic and immersive, experiential exploration of the Neuro Arts and their profound impact on our emotional and overall well-being. Delving into the science behind the neurobiological effects of flow in artistic engagement and other incredible healing phenomena. This presentation will equip attendees with practical tools for integrating the arts into their therapy practice (if they desire). If this is out of the therapist’s scope, s/he can make appropriate referrals to therapists in other areas of artistic skill. In addition to being informational, the session will feature a series of interactive activities carefully crafted to provide firsthand experiences of the therapeutic potential of Neuro Arts. By immersing themselves in these in-vivo experiences, participants will not only deepen their understanding but also discover innovative approaches to enhancing client care. This workshop is inclusive—i.e., not exclusively for “artists.” Individuals with varied interests and perceived limited skills in "art" will benefit from this workshop.

Note: prior to attending the webinar, please prepare a few items: pen or pencil and paper, Sharpie or other dark permanent marker (not too thick), and any materials for coloring or painting (crayons, markers, colored pencils, pastels, watercolors, etc.), and an open mind. 

 

About the Presenter

Rus Devorah (Darcy) Wallen, LCSW, ACSW, CIMHP, is an accomplished psychotherapist, performer, music composer, and educator. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Trauma, Positive Psychology, Perinatal Wellness, Integrative Mental Health, and Lifestyle Medicine approaches, she utilizes her rich background to inspire and heal. In addition to conducting workshops on a wide variety Psychology, and self-growth themes, she helps people live more meaningful lives in the 21st Century.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Describe the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie the therapeutic effects of artistic engagement.
  2. Implement practical techniques for integrating Neuro Arts into therapeutic practices.
  3. Analyze the impact of Neuro Arts on self-care and personal growth.
  4. Develop strategies to promote flow states and enhance client engagement with Neuro Arts interventions.
  5. Customize Neuro Arts interventions for diverse therapeutic settings.

Agenda:

I. Introduction (15 minutes)
A. Definition of Neuro Arts
B. Importance of understanding the neurobiological effects of art in therapy
C. Overview of presentation objectives

II. Effects of the Arts on Neurology and Biology (20 minutes)
A. Neurotransmitters and Hormones
1. Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, oxytocin
B. Physiological Responses
1. Electroencephalography (EEG)
2. Relaxation Response
3. Galvanic Skin Response (GSR)
4. Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
5. Blood Pressure (BP)
C. Case studies and research findings illustrating positive effects on neurology and biology

III. Practical Recommendations for Clients (25 minutes)
A. Art Forms for Well-being
1. Visual arts (painting, drawing)
2. Music therapy
3. Movement-based arts (dance, yoga)
4. Writing and expressive arts, etc.
B. Tailoring recommendations to individual client needs and preferences

IV. Multicultural Applications for the Neuro Arts (15 minutes)
A. What is happening around the world in various centers, hospitals, programs, etc.
B. Specific programs culturally specific to indigenous cultures.
C. How therapists can better tune in to clients’ diverse cultural needs

V. Enhancing Self-Efficacy and Self-Expression (15 minutes)
A. Benefits of artistic expression for self-esteem and empowerment
B. Strategies for integrating non-verbal expression into therapy
1. Use of metaphor and symbolism
2. Body-oriented techniques (gestalt, somatic experiencing)

Hands-On Activities: (20 minutes)
A. Immersive Art Experience (participants practice using art as a form of self-expression – specific exercise to be arranged)
B. Guided art experience (participants engage in Neurographic Art exercise)

VI. Conclusion and Q&A (10 minutes)
A. Summary of key points
B. Open discussion and questions from participants
C. Closing remarks on the transformative potential of Neuro Arts in psychotherapy

 

This workshop offers 2 Continuing Education Credits
This webinar is recorded and will not grant live credits.

This presentation is open to:
  • Social Workers
  • Professional Counselors
  • Therapists
  • Psychologists
  • Licensed Mental Health Practitioners
  • Medical Doctors and Other Health Professionals
  • Other professionals interacting with populations engaged in mental health based services
Course Level: intermediate
Level of Clinician: intermediate
  • New practitioners who wish to gain enhanced insight surrounding the topic
  • Experienced practitioners who seek to increase and expand fundamental knowledge surrounding the subject matter
  • Advanced practitioners seeking to review concepts and reinforce practice skills and/or access additional consultation
  • Managers seeking to broaden micro and/or macro perspectives

Participants will receive their certificate electronically upon completion of the webinar and course evaluation form.

Disability Access - If you require ADA accommodations, please contact our office 30 days or more before the event. We cannot ensure accommodations without adequate prior notification. Please Note: Licensing Boards change regulations often, and while we attempt to stay abreast of their most recent changes, if you have questions or concerns about this course meeting your specific board’s approval, we recommend you contact your board directly to obtain a ruling. The grievance policy for trainings provided by NEFESH INTERNATIONAL is available here Satisfactory Completion Participants must have paid the tuition fee, logged in and out each day, attended the entire workshop, and completed an evaluation to receive a certificate (If this is a pre-recorded program, a post-test with a passing grade of 80% to receive a certificate.) Failure to log in or out will result in forfeiture of credit for the entire course. No exceptions will be made. Partial credit is not available. Certificates are available after satisfactory course completion by clicking here.
There is no conflict of interest or commercial support for this program.
  • CE You! is an approved sponsor of the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners for continuing education credits for licensed social workers in Maryland.
    CE You! maintains responsibility for this program.
Refund Policy:
Full Refund until 48 hours before scheduled date.
48 hours before: full refund less $5.00 processing fee. After event no refund will be given.
*exclusions apply for reasonable need and cause.