Updates

Cancer and Hematology Center

 Art Therapy

At Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center, The Faris Foundation Art Therapist helps children and their families cope and adjust to their hospital experience, from a new diagnosis to medical treatment.

Art Therapy is an integrative mental health profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through the clinical, evidence-based application of art and creative processes within a therapeutic relationship (American Art Therapy Association, 2017).

Since art naturally connects to how children relate and communicate about their world, art therapy can provide a safe and developmentally appropriate way for children to navigate the world of the hospital.

From painting, collage, mixed media and digital media, art therapy offers creative tools and interventions through creative expression that aim to achieve the following goals:

  • Provide opportunities for creativity and self-expression
  • Promote relaxation and pain management
  • Increase positive self-esteem and resilience
  • Develop healthy problem-solving and adaptive skills
  • Foster peer support and a sense of community in the medical environment
  • Decrease stress and anxiety related to illness experience
  • Improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions
  • Facilitate legacy-building and memory-making

Meet our Art Therapist

Jennifer Sullivan, MA, ATR-BC, joined as The Faris Foundation Art Therapist in 2022. She received her master’s degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, after obtaining her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin.

Jen is passionate about supporting others in connecting with their personal strengths through art therapy. She believes that all people—regardless of limitations—have the ability to create artwork that is meaningful and helpful to their journey. As an art therapist, Jennifer helps patients bloom in color.

Jen works with patients receiving treatment in the inpatient unit at Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center. She is board certified by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB).

Art Therapy Services

Group, individual, open studio and co-treatment art therapy sessions are provided to various inpatient units and populations throughout Texas Children’s Hospital.

Ranked #6 in Cancer

Proud to be ranked one of the best children’s cancer centers in the country by U.S. News & World Report for seven consecutive years.

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