Before I was aware that art therapy was an actual career path, I was a practicing artist and intuitively used art as a healing practice and a way to express my emotions. I continue to practice this for myself, and enjoy helping others to connect to the healing power of creative expression.
Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist
After finishing my undergraduate arts degree at Loyola New Orleans, in 2007 I earned my Master’s (MA) Degree in Art Therapy Counseling from Marylhurst University near Portland, Oregon. I currently live in Portland where I work at my private practice based out of Somatic Center Portland, and in my spare time create my own artwork, primarily paintings.
I have experience working at music festivals/ burn events and have volunteered with The Zendo Project / MAPS and White Bird Rock Med, providing psychedelic harm reduction and integration services. I am currently undergoing training as a therapist in MAPS MDMA Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD, as part of the Expanded Access Program. (more info) I am also a professional artist https://lesleyaburke.com and I look forward to furthering my experience and skill as a painter, integrating what I am learning into my practice as an art therapist.