The workshop will explore unique ways to “Reflect, Restore & Renew” oneself as a mental health practitioner using creative art journaling techniques. Participants will explore artistic forms of journaling using a combination of approaches like collage-making and mixed media techniques (i.e., painting, drawing, magazine images, etc), digital work, and written prompts. The workshop will explore a form of creative self-care practices.

Participants will need access to the following materials:

1. Paper (mixed media) or an art journal book
2. Digital option to create art images via apps (i.e., Ipad, laptop, procreate, etc)
3. Markers
4. Crayons
5. Magazine/Newspaper Images
6. Paint
7. Paintbrushes
8. Glue
9. Any other art materials

Workshop Objectives:

• To introduce a form of creative self-care practice using art journaling techniques.
• To offer mental health practitioners the opportunity to engage in “Reflecting, restoring & renewing” one’s selves via a creative process.

About the Speaker:

Lesli-Ann Belnavis Elliott, MS, ATR is a Registered Art Therapist & Photographer from and based in Jamaica. She has a Master of Science Degree in Art Therapy and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Studio Art from Florida State University. She has conducted creative arts-based clinical assessments and art therapy sessions with clients of various ages, and abilities, presenting concerns and socio-economic backgrounds in a variety of locations including schools, community centers & projects, and private practice. Currently, she offers services both in-person and via telehealth to persons dealing with grief, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and family and work-related concerns. She is the director of the private practice agency – Art Therapy Jamaica.

As a photographer, Belnavis Elliott has displayed works in England, the United States, and Jamaica. Her photography is informed by her being an art therapist and having the skillful ability to merge art and psychology and infuse it in different art techniques. She understands some of the concerns people face and the impact it has on their emotional, developmental and interpersonal well-being. Her photography speaks to social justice issues where she masters the ability to evoke emotional responses and provocative discussions.