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Creative Arts Therapy Panel Discussion presented by NCW Arts Alliance

NCW Arts Alliance proudly presents the opportunity to learn more about Creative Arts Therapies for October’s Pybus University class. Our panel of experienced professionals will speak to both personal and clinical applications for using the arts (music, drama, visual art) in intentionally therapeutic ways for personal growth and healing. 

Panel Moderater

Thom Kokenge, Communications Professional and Public Speaker

Panelists

Sarah Sims 

Art has always been used as a way to self-soothe and come back to the body for Sarah. A way to stay present with herself and process her ever-present big feelings; a way to turn her challenges into something beautiful and meaningful, for herself and others.  

Heather Wendeborn 

Heather is a cancer survivor and artist who has embraced her second chance at life through the transformative power of art. With a heart brimming with passion for creative expression, she is currently pursuing certification as a Paint From Your Soul™ facilitator. Heather’s journey with art began as a deeply personal healing process, blossoming into a mission to empower women. She invites women to take bold strokes and uncover their true selves on the canvas. Heather creates a nurturing sanctuary where women can heal, grow, and transform, using art as a radiant path to self-discovery and empowerment. Her art is not just a medium but a heartfelt journey of resilience, courage, and boundless creativity.

Meg Kappler, LMHC 

Meg believes that people thrive when they have equitable access to brave spaces to show up fully as themselves in their personal and professional lives.  Her career is dedicated to creating environments in both the arts and healthcare fields where people can tap into their authentic, creative selves, build resiliency and thrive.   

Amanda Jacobs, PhD 

Amanda Jacobs, PhD is a multi-faceted artist, performer and teacher.   She is most widely recognized for her musical theater work of AUSTEN’S PRIDE, which was performed in Carnegie Hall last year, as well as her classical and sacred works, which have won numerous prizes.  Her interest in Creative Expression has been a lifelong pursuit that she has shared through her teaching and workshops.  Her doctorate is in Educational Psychology with research interests in creative and non-traditional learning environments.