Gabrielle Javier-Cerulli
What is it?

Think of the process as a fusion of creative expression and personal development work. Participants may gain clarity around an issue, such as finding one's life purpose, and/or get in touch with one's creative Self. The process tends to be a place of discovery with Aha! moments peppered throughout a session or workshop.

What forms of creative expression are utilized?
This is a sample list of the different ways coaches and facilitators engage you in the creative process for clarity and self-discovery:

Visual Arts: painting, drawing, collage, clay, masks, sculpting, sand tray, mandalas, mixed media

Writing: poetry, haiku, journaling, memoir writing, creative writing, short stories

Music: drumming, singing, music-making, listening, song writing, sounding

Movement: dance, breath work, authentic movement

Drama: storytelling, theater games, role playing

Who would be interested in a workshop or session?
Anyone who is interested in one or all of the following:

  • unleashing and widening the space for their creative Self to surface
  • finding answers and exploring ideas about their careers, life purpose, self-esteem, and relationships (such as a spouse/partner, family, friends, colleague, or boss)
  • someone who currently works in the creative arts such as writers, artists, dancers, designers who are experiencing a block or who wishes to dive deeper into their art form or explore another
Why would someone choose to attend an expressive arts coaching or facilitation workshop or session?
They are ready to try something new and different, and believe that something can happen while engaging in art-making. They are excited to venture into a deeper understanding of themselves while engaging in the creative process whatever form that may be - writing, collage, drumming, etc.

Anything else?
Expressive Arts Coaching and Facilitation can be therapeutic but it is not therapy. There are expressive arts/creative arts therapists, art therapists, music therapists, and drama therapists who do some coaching and facilitation BUT a coach or facilitator usually is not providing therapy because they are not licensed nor is it the focus of their work. Coaches and facilitators do not diagnose. Some clients work with a coach/facilitator as an alternative to, or as a complement to, their traditional talk therapy.

Lastly, the client does not need to be artistic to reap the benefits of this style of personal development! The focus is on process not product.

1 Response
  1. Unknown Says:

    Hi Gabrielle! Lots of good stuff here! One of my favorite thing to do when I start working with a new client is to focus on what their values are and where they differ with their current behavior. It also helps to recognize when your values don't match up with the cultural values around us- helps people become much more comfortable with themselves when they know where they stand. It's funny how one can start out working with art and end up transforming an entire life!
    -Adam from www.epiclifestudios.com