Healing Through Art

Part of what makes Wilton Meadows a high-quality healing environment is the exceptional internship programs run by both the Social Work and Therapeutic Recreation Departments.  Alexandra Paye, Master of Science in Art Therapy, Board Certified Art Therapist and Licensed New York State Creative Arts Therapist is the director of the recreation program. Students from Albertus Magnus College are eligible to complete an internship with supervision from Alexandra for a semester. The program is a Master of Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling. This program prepares students with competencies in art materials and the healing potential of the creative process. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of The Accreditation Council for Art Therapy Education.

The students provide individual and small group art therapy sessions with Wilton Meadow residents and patients on short-term rehabilitation. Life is abundant in transitions and aging is one that comes with specific concerns and needs. Having additional art therapists in-house provides added engagement, psychological support and counseling.

Intern Emily Scranton led numerous programs throughout her fall semester at Wilton Meadows. At the culmination of her time, Emily hosted an in-house art show and creative project. The art therapy program is one of the many ways that Wilton Meadows goes above and beyond to make sure that individuals are living their best quality of life on both an emotional and a physical level.