Therapeutic art
Also known as art therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve and enhance mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can involve various art forms such as painting, drawing, sculpting, or even digital art. Through the act of creating, individuals can express themselves, explore their emotions, and gain insight into their thoughts and feelings. Therapeutic art is often used to help individuals manage stress, cope with trauma, increase self-esteem, and improve communication skills. It’s facilitated by trained art therapists who guide clients through the artistic process and help them interpret their artwork in a therapeutic context.
Get Involved
1. Education and Awareness: By educating people about the benefits of therapeutic art. We are highlighting its ability to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster self-expression. We share success stories and testimonials from those who have experienced its benefits.
2. Accessible Resources: We provide easy access to art supplies and materials. This could be through workshops, community centers, or online resources. We make sure the materials are affordable and readily available to encourage participation.
3. Creating a Safe Space: We are welcoming and non-judgmental environment where everyone feel comfortable expressing themselves through art. We ensure confidentiality and respect for each person’s creative process.
4. We Offer Guidance and Support: Providing guidance and support for those who are new to therapeutic art. This could include structured activities, prompts, or themes to inspire creativity. Trained facilitators or art therapists can offer guidance and encouragement as participants explore their feelings through art.
5. Promoting Self-Expression: Encouraging participants to explore their thoughts and emotions freely through art-making. Emphasize that there are no right or wrong ways to create art in a therapeutic context, and that the focus is on the process rather than the end result.
6. Group Activities: Organizing a group art activities or workshops where individuals can come together to create and share their artwork. Group settings can foster a sense of community and connection, as well as provide opportunities for social interaction and support.
7. Flexibility: Allowing for flexibility in the types of art activities offereing to accommodate different preferences and skill levels. Some people may prefer drawing or painting, while others may enjoy collage, sculpture, or digital art.
8. Feedback and Reflection: Encouraging participants to reflect on their artwork and share their experiences with others. Provide opportunities for feedback and discussion, allowing individuals to gain insight into their thoughts and feelings through their creative expression.
We are committed to implementing these strategies, so you can effectively get engage in therapeutic art and help experience its numerous benefits for mental and emotional well-being.
Believing
We believe in the transformative power of Art. Our programs are meticulously designed to elevate skills, boost confidence, and foster creativity.
Behind every challenge lies an opportunity for unparalleled assistance. We understand the intricacies of work we do and are committed to providing prompt assistance every step of the way.
Work experience and education
Hamid Karimi
Multilingual
Speaking English, Farsi, Spanish, some Portuguese and Italian
Educated Recreation Leader, with the knowledge and ability to provide leadership, guidance and support while promoting teamwork and person-centered care. Over 8 years of experience working with seniors utilizing Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA), and P.I.E.C.E.S. Able to provide new and creative recreation activities that ensure a high level of resident participation is obtained. Successful in promoting resident, and employee satisfaction while providing an enthusiastic atmosphere. Member of good standing of TRO.
Work experience
RECREATIONIST
Baycrest Hospital Apotex LTC – Toronto, ON
September 2022 to October 2023
• Working with the Apotex Therapeutic Recreation and Central teams to develop and execute therapeutic programs
• Completed documentation as required • Attend inter-professional team meetings
• Interviewed, orienting, supervising and sets expectations with volunteers
• Contributed to inter-professional team and therapeutic recreation professional development
• Coordinated services with other staff/departments
• Developed and maintained inventory of program supplies
RECREATIONAL THERAPIST
Revera Main Street Terrace LTC – Toronto, ON
November 2020 to Aug 2022
Successfully designed and implemented a monthly calendar of programs for residents in this 150-bed long term care home.
• Evaluate a variety of recreation programs and special events that encourage residents to participate.
• Facilitates learning by utilizing engaging and interactive teaching styles to challenge and support residents. • Develop engaging programs that encourage social and cognitive participation such as Spanish Fiesta Day.
• Successful in organizing 1:1’s that address each individual’s needs.
• Created a monthly newsletter outlining program ideas and education opportunities.
• Documents and evaluates outcome measures to monitor the social engagement of residents and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Discusses with family the important role of recreational activities in enhancing their loved one’s well-being.
• Participates in care plan updates as well as interdepartmental meetings.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands
• Manages recreation budget and ensures it’s in line with the overall goals of the home.
LIFE ENRICHMENT MANAGER
Scarborough Retirement Residence – Scarborough, ON
August 2020 to November 2020
Designed programs for seniors living in a 124-suite retirement and assisted living home. • Provided outstanding service to residents as it pertained to recreation activities utilizing a variety of techniques and creative programs.
• Was able to build rapport quickly with residents and their families.
• Worked with the Management Team to ensure the home consistently delivered quality programs in a safe, interactive, and social atmosphere.
• Created monthly/daily activity calendars that reflected the varied interests of the residents.
• Attended and participated in care plan meetings with Interdisciplinary team
RECREATIONAL THERAPIST
The O’Neill Centre LTC Toronto, ON
August 2018 to 2020
Provided activity programs for residents in a 162-bed long-term care facility, comprised of assisted- living, and dementia care units.
• Responsible for developing programs for 56 residents on one floor, all of whom had some form of dementia.
• Developed programs to meet the needs of residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s such as the Music Heart Program which entailed music engagement with residents in small groups. • Facilitated various group therapeutic programs as well as 1:1 that addressed seniors’ physical,
• Intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
• Provided person-centered care recognizing the unique aspects of each resident and was
• Committed to providing care and services that fostered a culture of autonomy and individual choice.
• Created monthly newsletters.
ACTIVATION- COORDINATOR
Revera Harold and Grace Baker Centre – York, ON
November 2017 to September 2018
• Developed personalized programs for residents in this 120-bed home with both long-term care and retirement residents by identifying residents’ needs, strengths, abilities and interests.
• Created an interactive art program that was consistently well-attended.
• Participated in the planning, organizing, and implementation of programs for the residents. • Supported residents in their participation in programs and responded to any concerns.
• Assisted in the maintenance of records including resident assessments, writing evaluations of planned programs and tracking resident attendance.
• Generated a monthly newsletter detailing the home’s activities.
STUDENT PLACEMEN, ACTIVATION- COORDINATOR
Second Mile Club – Toronto, ON
September 2017 to April 2018
• Developed personalized programs for clients of the community center based on needs assessment to improve their quality of life and health.
• Collaborated with the community for specialized client support.
• Assisted in the maintenance of records including resident assessments, writing evaluations of planned programs, and tracking resident attendance.
ACTIVATION- COORDINATOR
Rekai Centres
September 2016 to April 2017
Coordinated the activities of implemented day-to-day programs.
• Created monthly newsletters outlining program ideas and education opportunities.
• Designed and created a monthly recreation calendar.
• Assisted clients in their participation in the program, and responded to clients’ concerns • Promoted and maintained a high standard of customer service that is client-focused
• Assisted with all types of activities such as Exercises, crafts, and daily routine.
COMPUTER COORDINATOR AND NETWORK SPECIALIST
York-Fairbank Centre for seniors
September 2014 to June 2015
Helped to coordinate the activities and implement day programs as they pertained to technology.
• Developed a photography program for clients.
• Facilitated discussions around the cinematography of movies through photos.
• Planned, organized, and managed client outings to places such as St. Lawrence Market, Distillery District, etc.
EDUCATOR – SOCIAL MEDIA
Franklin Horner Community Centre – Etobicoke, ON September 2012 to August 2014 Supported and interacted with caregivers, clients and families within the community setting to instruct on social media tools.
• Designed, coordinated, and implemented art-related activities for clients in the day program.
• Used interpersonal and communication skills to obtain donations to assemble 40 gift baskets for a charity event on a budget of $120.
Education
Centre for Health and Sciences GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE
• Recreation Therapeutic and Gerontology 2016 to 2018
Chemistry and Biology
RYERSON UNIVERSITY – Toronto, ON 2010 to 2012
• Fine Art Univercidad de Moncola, Madrid Spain 1994- 1998
Hamid Karimi 