Art Therapy
by Sarah Grubs
A friend once said to me, “when the heart speaks, you can’t help but listen.” I was drawn to Recovery Café because I recognized the heart speaking throughout the organization. In fall of 2021 I had the opportunity to volunteer and co-facilitate Friday morning stress reduction group with Johnny B. After several months of group with Johnny B I approached Stephanie about running an art therapy group. Her enthusiasm matched mine and I have facilitated monthly expressive art therapy groups since then.
Each month somewhere between 5-12 café goers gather in a small art space in the Medford Middleford Alley for art therapy, not knowing what that night’s art project will be. Using a range of mediums, participants create portraits, collages, fiber arts, and more, using color and texture to communicate where words sometimes fall short. Participants are adept at vulnerability and guide one another through the creative process as they explore self-expression and develop new coping skills. In this group there is no shortage of encouragement, empathy, humor and support for newcomers and old timers alike.
At the end of each session, artists share their work and personal insights gained during their process; for me, these shares are the most rewarding. What appeared to be broken and hopeless always seems to have wisdom and beauty at its core.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the heartbeat of Recovery Café. This work is like a cup that refills itself each time I show up. As an artist, counselor, and human, I love it! Thank you for having me!
Sarah Grubbs, MS NCC
Professional Counselor Associate
sarahgrubbs.com