SPOTLIGHT
TNMU Debuts Art Therapy Course in Partnership with DTCare and First Aid of the Soul
A New Era of Mental Health Support Through Art Therapy for Students and Staff at Ternopil National Medical University
In a notable advancement for mental health education, Ternopil National Medical University (TNMU), in partnership with DTCare and First Aid of the Soul, launched a groundbreaking two-semester online art therapy course designed for medical students and psychiatry interns. Led by certified professionals from Lesley University, renowned for its expertise in pedagogy, mental health, and art, this course already shows great promise. Under the guidance of Professor Mitchell Kossak, students and staff explore the principles of art therapy and its integration into psychiatric treatment, focusing on assisting trauma recovery. Participants praise the course's innovative approach, interactive format, and practical application opportunities. Through hands-on experience with music and art therapy techniques, participants develop empathy, nonverbal interpretation, and professional awareness skills. This course is pivotal for understanding therapeutic processes and enhancing skills for professional development, strengthening participants' future roles in social-cognitive and communication fields. Read more
Art Therapy and Mental Health Support
Unlocking Healing Through Art: Art Therapy Helps Trauma Survivors Find Relief and Recovery
DTCare recognizes the growing need for psychological counseling and support in Ukraine and is committed to expanding mental health programs in collaboration with international partners. This includes facilitating both group and individual art therapy sessions with the expertise of 27 therapists in five regions, as well as hosting a 14-week introductory course at the International Humanitarian University of Odesa. In addition, DTCare has partnered with local organizations, including TAPS and Care in Action, to provide free art therapy specifically for vulnerable groups such as religious minorities, women, orphaned children, veterans, and victims of abuse. DTCare also extends its reach to isolated or rural communities through mobile teams of art therapists and operates a play therapy program for children in Mykolaiv. To ensure the continual development and support of Ukrainian therapists, DTCare offers free professional development and clinical supervision in partnership with international experts.
How art therapy meets the UN’s sustainability goals