Expanding Access to Art Therapy for Middle & High School Students
The Art Therapy Project is proud to launch a new partnership with the Center for Supportive Schools (CSS), bringing therapeutic art programming directly into the school day for middle and high school students.
Allison Sabbagh, ATR-P, LCAT-LP provides group-based art therapy support both during the school day and in after-school programs at Bronx Early College Academy (BECA). A central component of the work includes Open Studio Therapeutic Art Groups held during students’ lunch period for up to 10 students, rotating attendees each session. These groups offer students a welcoming space to create, relax, and express themselves freely in the middle of a busy day. Students can explore new materials, step away from stress, and connect with their own creativity in a calm, fun, and supportive environment.
Allison shared “As I begin my clinical art therapy work with CSS and TATP, I am finding it to be incredibly meaningful. I’m grateful to offer therapeutic art support within a school setting, as students don't typically have easy access to these services outside of school.
Through our open studio and art therapy groups, students have a space to express their emotions, connect with others, and use art to unwind and feel grounded. Art can become their voice and a way to communicate, share, and connect with others without the need for words.
Students connect with one another through the shared experience of creating, developing a sense of community and belonging. Art making also allows each of them to build a connection with themselves, tuning into their own emotions, strengths, and creativity.
It gives them a space to feel empowered, independent, and even a bit playful. Witnessing students connect with one another, tap into their creativity, and utilize the healing power of art is what makes this work feel most meaningful to me.”
With CSS as our new program partner, BECA students can take a moment in their day to explore who they are, interact with others, and engage in meaningful creative expression.
TATP’s Executive Director, Martha Dorn stated “The Art Therapy Project is thrilled to begin this new partnership. Center for Supportive Schools is doing incredible work across NYC and nationwide, strengthening school communities and connecting youth and families to essential services. Through our collaboration with CSS, we have the opportunity to expand access to art therapy in underserved communities. We’re beginning with one school in 2025 and look forward to our partnership evolving and growing next year and beyond.”
About CSS: CSS helps schools become places where students want to be. They partner with schools in three areas: developing all students into leaders; empowering teachers to collaborate with each other and with students; and engaging entire school communities to improve how learning happens. Learn More