Art therapy group provides support for parents of children with medical complexity

Parenting is one of the most difficult and rewarding jobs that anyone can do. Every stage brings new questions and difficult choices. For parents of a child with complex, chronic health concerns, the role can be significantly more stressful, time-consuming and, at its worst, even traumatic.
 
The Elizabeth Hospice is offering a six-session support group, Express Yourself, for parents who are caring for a child diagnosed with medical complexity. There is no cost to attend. The group, which meets on Mondays, August 17, 24, 31 and Sept. 14, 21 and 28 from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm via Zoom, uses expressive art therapy, an integrative form of psychotherapy that supports health and well-being. Participants will engage in creative exercises and activities designed to help them express difficult memories and connect with others who share similar life experiences.
 
Sessions will be facilitated by Brandi Nichols, AMFT, Grief Counseling Associate with The Elizabeth Hospice and Tara Al-Taan, AMFT, ATR-P, Grief Counseling Associate with The Elizabeth Hospice. “Our counselors will help parents communicate their feelings through art. We’re excited to offer this expressive art therapy program which has been shown to enhance self-discovery and understanding,” said Kathlyne Barnum, Clinical Counseling Program Supervisor with The Elizabeth Hospice. “Since the therapeutic work is based on the creative process, participants do not need a background or training in the arts to benefit from this type of counseling.”

All members of the community who are caring for children with medical complexity are welcome. Space is limited and registration is required. RSVP by August 14. Call 760.737.2054 or email Brandi.Nichols@ehospice.org .

About The Elizabeth Hospice
The Elizabeth Hospice, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit healthcare leader, provides medical, emotional and spiritual support to children and adults facing the challenges associated with a life-threatening illness, and restores hope to grieving children and adults who are feeling lost and alone. Since 1978, The Elizabeth Hospice has touched the lives of more than 100,000 people in San Diego County and Southwest Riverside County. The Elizabeth Hospice has earned the Gold Seal of Approval by The Joint Commission and is a member of the California Hospice and Palliative Care Association and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. To learn more, call 800-797-2050 or visit elizabethhospice.org.

Contact Information

Lisa Marcolongo

Public Relations

The Elizabeth Hospice

(1) (800) 797-2050

Lisa.Marcolongo@ehospice.org