Sara Powell, an alumna of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, is a strong advocate for art psychotherapy opportunities in the region. With a passion for arts and therapeutic practices, Powell believes in the power of art to transcend cultural barriers and give voice to those who may struggle to express themselves verbally. After completing a Master’s degree in art psychotherapy, Powell founded ATIC, a community driven center that offers a variety of expressive therapies, including art, play, music, and movement.
Through her work at ATIC, Powell aims to provide art psychotherapy services to a wide range of clients, from children and adolescents to adults and groups. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention through psychoeducation and believes that art therapy can be a less threatening alternative for those dealing with mental health issues. Powell also highlights the need for more opportunities for neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders, to express their thoughts and feelings in a creative way.
At ATIC, clients are encouraged to engage in art therapy as a process of self-expression, regardless of their artistic abilities. Powell emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the significance of the client’s mode of expression in identifying specific challenges and developing coping strategies. While the center works extensively with children, they also cater to a wide range of clients, including government agencies, hospitals, schools, and corporations.
Powell stresses the importance of continuous research, training, and self-care for individuals pursuing a career in art therapy. She encourages aspiring therapists to seek support from experienced professionals, develop sustainable business models, and prioritize their own well-being through therapy. Powell believes in the transformative power of art therapy and aims to help clients find their voice and develop resilience through mindful interventions and ongoing support.
With a strong commitment to expanding the reach of art psychotherapy in the region, Powell collaborates with organizations like Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar and Qatar Foundation to promote holistic services and make therapeutic interventions more readily available. By advocating for the integration of art therapy into multidisciplinary teams and supporting individuals of all ages and backgrounds, Powell hopes to create a more inclusive and supportive community for those in need of mental health services.
