Learn ways to support an on-going practice of working with symbols and images to increase self-awareness, promote positivity and develop artistic self-expression.

Sage Willow remains OPEN and accepting new clients via telehealth for Illinois and California residents!

Voyage Chicago – Local Stories

Interview with Jessica Lynn Shell
Radio Pani Poori / Dr. Serena Wadhwa

A wise man once responded to my fearful exclamation of not being ready to reveal my hard work and extend the branches of my professional identity.  He said, "you will never feel ready, your head will want more and your heart will remain sensitive to the reaction of others.  Heck I've been doing this my whole life and am considered an expert in my field and I still don't feel ready!  But when you put your mind to it and do the best you can, you CAN do anything and you will surprise yourself.  If you freeze and do not permit the risk-- no risk will ever be taken and you will remain always hanging onto the idea and never experiencing its unfolding."

I have found that using the mandala, especially with those resistant to the art-making process, can be very soothing and healing.  There are several ways to "warm up" to the creative expression, as a blank piece of paper can sometimes feel daunting and uncomfortable.

Some major art therapy myths to tackle for the resistant client include:

1. I must be “good” at art in order to create art
2. If my art is not “good”, then I will be judged and rejected
3. Art is for children, not adults
4. Art has no value for my mental and physical health

Stepping out of my comfort zone I joined the efforts of Counseling Connections at the Autism Awareness 5K in Libertyville IL... my first organized run EVER!  

My coworkers and I recalled our fondest moments working with children on the autism spectrum and used these memories to focus and fuel our energy for the run.

I recognized the discomfort of trying something new and scary.  Something I know my clients endure in their struggle to engage and connect.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Board Certified Art Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher and Certified Prenatal Yoga Teacher in Illinois and California, I founded Sage Willow to provide a holistic experience through therapeutic services-- promoting individual wellness through the use of expressive arts, cognitive-behavioral techniques, yoga and mindfulness practices to facilitate restoration and life satisfaction for children, adolescents and adults.  Sage Willow offers an array of opportunities that include individual counseling, group therapy, expressive art workshops, art parties, event hosting as well as professional training.