Art therapy is the deliberate use of art-making to address psychological and emotional needs. Art therapy uses art media and the creative process to help in areas such as, but not limited to: foster self-expression, create coping skills, manage stress, and strengthen sense of self.  Art therapy has provided mental health treatment for clients who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, depression, chronic illness, substance abuse, and more (Art Therapy Alliance).

The process and technique of papermaking is an excellent media to incorporate as part of art therapy. The papermaking process inspired by the Combat Paper Project can help transform difficult, challenging, or traumatic experiences into art works that have new meaning, purpose, and helps build a new perspective around the individual’s experience- especially with those individuals and groups who have experienced trauma and loss in their lives.

I am very excited to be involved with Paper Bridges and look forward to what this new local resource and outreach for the community can bring to help those in need.

Gretchen Miller, MA, ATR-BC, CTC

Registered Board Certified Art Therapist
Certified Trauma and Loss Consultant
President, The Buckeye Art Therapy Association (2007-2010)