Expressive Arts Therapy

On May 22, 2007, the Department of Mental Health sponsored a Commissioner's Reception at the Mass State House Hall of Flags to honor the contributions of those who have made a significant impact on the lives of people with mental illness. Norma Canner , professor emeritus and founder of the Dance/Movement Therapy program at Lesley University, was among those honored. Norma Canner received the Special Recognition Award for her contributions to the field of mental health. According to Commissioner Elizabeth Childs, M.D. Norma left her mark on the Department of Mental Health and "brought movement, joy, and healing" to the children she served. Her influence remains. Of the 17 people presented with awards, Norma was the only one to receive a standing ovation. According to Donna Newman-Bluestein, a dance therapist and adjunct faculty member who attended the awards ceremony, “it was, of course, not only what Norma said, but how she said it, that brought people to their feet. She

There were many Lesley University students, alum, and faculty at the seventh conference of the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA) which took place at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC on May 23-27. (Thanks again Meg for all your help!) The conference was terrific! Many of the pioneers of the field were there - Lesley University's own Shaun McNiff was there, as was Paolo Knill, Steven and Ellen Levine, Sally Atkins, Maria Gonzalez-Blue, and many others. This is some of us on a panel - There was a wonderful labyrinth and a terrific poster session - where one of our students - Cailin Good presented her work! (you can see a close up of her poster in the previous post on this blog! just scroll down)