Many people who visit the Painting From the Source site, or see my flyer resonate to the paintings and teachings. I am often asked, "How can I prepare myself to do this work? Did you study Art Therapy? Does the field pay well? Can you recommend any schools or books?" When my book Painting From the Source; Awakening the Artists Soul in Everyone comes out in September 1998, it will answer many of these questions, but until then here are some thoughts.

I had difficulty deciding what to call myself. This work is not Art Teaching nor is it Art Therapy in the conventional sense. Art Medicine, ritual or Art Shamanism is closer to the experience. I began to call myself an Art Medicine Woman. Also, you don't choose to do this work, you are called to do it as are ministers, mystics, healers, psychics, visionaries and practicing artists - it's all the same, it's a passion. Although I had formal training as a painter, teacher, art therapist and psycho/therapist, I had to unlearn almost everything to do this work.

The approach I use assumes that we are basically whole, holy, and in a constant process of unfolding and finding balance. I do not diagnose, analyze or interpret. I view symptoms such as physical pains, nightmares, stifled or disturbing images or stifled paintings as gifts. These are signs of incomplete or blocked creativity, signs that our Being is trying to balance. These "cleansing reactions" should be welcomed - a necessity as the snake must shed itís skin for growth. The concept that in order for transformation to occur you must lovingly "Kiss the Beast" applies. The focus is on creative breakthrough. For some this means major detoxification and experiencing the creative flow for the first time. For others it's opening doors to deeper more authentic creative flow. The process meets you where you are. The preparation to facilitate others through this transformational passage is to experience the transformation in your self... to come through your own painting initiation "in the flesh!" Remember, we teach what we need to learn. This work keeps you forever on your growing edge.

In our culture, some formal training is advisable, if only for creditability and self-confidence. Much of the information you need to start with is here at this site, which also includes links to other resources.

Here are some suggestions:

1) First, of course is to buy and read my book Painting From the Source; Awakening the Artists Soul in Everyone (HarperCollins) available in all bookstores and from Amazon.com.

2) Get on my mailing list - by placing a request on the Comments page, or by viewing the Workshop Schedule and signing up for a workshop. Under some circumstances the mental health component of your health insurance may cover the workshop. It is also possible to receive continuing education or college course credits for taking a workshop.

3) I want to begin a Painting From the Source Training Program in 1999, so keep tuned into this site for updates and let us know on the Comments page if you are interested. Of course the very first prerequisite is to come to a workshop, so that both you and I can see if this work suits you. If you are already working in the art therapy field, please see Physician Heal Thyself below.

4) Explore the Resources that Support the Process - a .lists of suggested schools and books.

5) Check out the web sites listed on the Links page.

6) Visit the links to professional organizations with which I am affiliated, such as the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA).

7) See my abbreviated Resume. It will give you an idea of my varied background, but don't be daunted by my credentials. Remember I had to compensate for low self-esteem. Each of you is called to the work with different strengths. Each of you is called to the work with the same passion to Paint and Awaken your Artist's Soul.