9/22/2011 - When a service member experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) recently visited the art therapy program at National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE), he used molding clay to sculpt a scene he experienced while deployed.
“He was shocked to find himself reenacting a combat casualty,” said Melissa Walker, art therapist and healing arts program coordinator at the center.
Another participant began sessions timidly, outlining words and images on tracing paper. He told Walker that prior to his injury, he had been a painter for many years.
“I asked why he had stopped painting, and he said he was afraid of what might come out,” said Walker. “After he left NICoE, he shared with me that he had pulled his old art supplies out from the basement and was painting again.”
Walker’s art therapy studio doesn’t look like your typical psychological health center. Colorful artwork hangs on the walls above tables surrounded by paint and easels. Masks, painted by service members experiencing combat stress or traumatic brain injury, line the halls. read more>>>
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