COLLEEN SHAVER, LMFT

I grew up in Southern California and remember being drawn to color and artistic expression of various kinds – sewing, crochet, drawing, writing, and other crafty pursuits. In college I minored in Art History finding it a wonderful compliment to my Psychology major; seeing artists and people through a kaleidoscope of influences portrayed through individual and cultural lenses. I moved into teaching and counseling adding my own creative touches using artistic influences. After teaching kids from preschool to college aged, I pursued my Marriage and Family Therapy master’s degree and licensure. My creativity guided me toward utilizing experiential, creative expression in my integrative, therapeutic style. From working with children using Play Therapy along with families, adults, and adolescents, we explore emotions, meaning, values, themes, and identities in many ways. My private practice is in Reno, Nevada. Currently, I am pursuing my doctoral degree in Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Heart and Soul
(Cotton Fabric Wall Hanging, Quilted with Metallic Thread and Embroidery Thread, 21” x 23”) 

My art piece is a compilation of personal insights and healing over the course of a year’s work. Throughout the year, I drew symbols, engaged in poetry and ritual work which culminated in deep heart healing. The various pieces being quilted together over time represent parts of my Self integrating sadness, anger, guilt, and joy. I found intuitive processing, openness, and acceptance to be pervading qualities during my inner exploration. The pieces behind the heart represent people that supported my journey, a reminder of the importance of relationships, whether alive or of another world. As in the Japanese art of kintsugi and in alchemy, the pieces connect with gold, metallic embroidery thread demonstrating the transformation that occurred during this healing work – with the quilting thread emanating the heart light from the inside out. The border choices represent the elements of water, earth, and sky with the heart representing the fire and passion needed during this transformation.

I hope this work stirs the soul and brings forth one’s own personal experience of healing.