Eco-Psychology and Expressive Arts - Truly a Holistic Offering

Dianne Monroe of San Antonio, TX is an ExpressiveSalve-Regina University. During my studies, I
Art Facilitator who combines eco-psychology in herdiscovered Eco-Psychology and began to develop my
work. She shares what she does and why she isown way of blending these two fields (Expressive
called to this work.Arts and Eco-Psychology). Since that time I have
GJC: What do you do?deepened my conversation with the natural world,
DM: I am an Expressive Arts Facilitator, writer andpursued further learning, and continued to evolve my
photographer.work and what I offer to others.
Much of my work is about facilitating reconnectionGJC: Why are you called to this work?
(with our inner selves, with others, and with theDM: Again, life called me to do this work.
natural world) and guiding people to discover, exploreIt was through my own artistic journey and life
and deepen their understanding of their unique giftsjourney that I experienced again and again the
and how they live them in this world. Throughprofound power of art - to touch, heal, change. My
workshops, classes and consulting I offer my ownmany years as an Arts Educator showed me that
blend of Expressive Arts and Eco-Psychology - usingthis power lies within everyone.
arts, creativity and nature to offer tools andFor me, art and creativity are as natural and intrinsic
pathways for healing, connection, a deeperto humanity as breathing - and can open us to new
understanding of self and as a guide in one's journeyways of experiencing, knowing and being in
through life.relationship with ourselves, others and our world. We
GJC: How have you prepared for your career?are all artists and the most important artwork we are
DM: My life experiences have prepared me for what Icreating is our lives, our unique selves, and how we
do!live our gifts in this world.
An early love of art and deep connection with othersI am called to this work because I want to share the
led to my work as a writer and photographer, andjoy of this discovery with others.
many years as an Arts Educator working with bothGJC: Do you work with individuals? Groups?
children and adults.Workshops? Conventions? Conferences?
Through my work as a writer and photographer IDM: I work with both groups and individuals. I offer
personally experienced the power of art and natureworkshops, classes and consulting. I have presented
to touch hearts, change lives and express theand brought workshops to conferences and also
intimate mysteries of the human spirit. As an Artstrained therapists, counselors, teachers and others in
Educator, I felt great joy in my ability to offer thisways to integrate the arts into their work. I offer
experience as a gift to others.consulting on Expressive Arts and nature activities
My personal journey to better understand thiswith youth. I can also work by phone.
profound power led me to study Expressive Art,GJC: Will you travel?
through the program led by Barbara Ganim atDM: Yes, I enjoy traveling.