Carrie Wicks, M.A., A.T.R

• Art Therapy Registration from the American Art Therapy credentials Board (2006)

• MA in Psychology & Art Therapy, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA (2004)

• BA, Journalism & Graphic Design, The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA (1983)

As an Art Therapist and Creative Consultant I bring together creative process, self-inventory and awareness building to assist individuals, groups, businesses and athletes with personal growth and goal setting. I have a varied background as a clinical art therapist, art educator, parenting consultant, graphic designer, advertising executive, legislative assistant and horsewoman. I have experienced the successful combination of creative process and professional consultation in all of these venues. Integrating knowledge, imagination and personal strengths is a powerful approach to increasing productivity and satisfaction in life.

I have worked with children and families for over 15 years. My thriving private practice is two years old. Previously I was the Clinical Art Therapist at San Antonio Continuation High School and Valley Oaks Elementary, Middle and High Schools in Petaluma, CA where I supported students and their families as they navigated the challenges of their education. Before becoming an art therapist, I was an art educator. I owned a private art school called Monart School of the Arts, which offered classes to individuals age four to adult. As the Monart School Director, I trained public school teachers to use drawing to teach all the subjects.

After studying journalism and graphic design in college Iworked in Senator Gary Hart’s office in Washington, D.C. Following this post, I entered the private sector as a graphic designer and advertising executive. I worked on several newspapers and in advertising agencies in California and Nevada. These experiences have led me to work with a variety of businesses as a Creative Consultant utilizing innovative and inspirational processes to deepen professional work and integrate it with personal life passions.

In 2006 I re-entered the horse show ring at Indio and came home Mid-Circuit Champion! Since then I have become a competitive amateur jumper competitor. One of my daughters showed ponies as a child and is currently an amateur jumper competitor. My other daughter was a high level gymnast who earned herself a place on the TOPs National team. She retired from gymnastics as she entered high school to focus her attention on dance. I have witnessed the challenges of engaging in high-level athletics from many angles.

Woven into my life experience is a love of painting, art making and yogic philosophy. Although I do not consider myself a professional artist, I am constantly working on a new art piece and study yoga regularly. My passion for working with people is inspiring and often ignites participant's creative forces and healing!

Email Carrie directly at: cwicks@artspeaksconsulting.com