Hello! I'm Christine Wheeler, a second year student in the Art Therapy Program at GW.

Three years ago, I sat, staring at the American Art Therapy Association website, wondering what it would be like to attend graduate school and study art therapy. I chose several programs and began researching their websites. When I narrowed my choices down and interviewed, I realized the atmosphere and core values at GW were exactly what I was looking for. Not only was I intrigued by the program's rich history and community, I was excited by the city's magnificent diversity and activity.

Since I've been in school I've had the opportunity to get involved in several ways. Our student organization, the Art Therapy Task Force, has given me the chance to socialize with my classmates and do service projects with the GW undergraduates. The bi-annual newsletter, Drawn From Bldg. L, has provided an outlet for me to express my thoughts and opinions. A special topics course has permitted me to research an area of interest outside curriculum expectations and course material has bolstered my knowledge base and allowed me to present at the national art therapy conference. Outside the Task Force, newsletter, and classes, I've probably learned the most from my practicum sites. My internships have opened my eyes to the therapeutic uses of art in medical, psychological, and educational settings. These practical, hands-on experiences have given me a greater understanding of the benefits of art therapy and the different ways it can be used. Now I know how to respond to people when they say, "Art therapy…what's that?"

Andrea Tree
Click here to view "Bridging Journeys for GW", a movie she created about the program. (video will open a in Real Player)