Sondra Rosenberg (Art Therapist) Interviewed by Ashley Freeby
Please tell me about your educational background.
I went to Oberlin College and got my BA in visual art (that was a combination of art history and studio art) and a concentration in film. I took additional psychology classes before getting my MA in art therapy from NYU.
Did you feel prepared after completing your Master’s program?
For the most part… the fact that I had an art therapist for a few years probably made more of an impact on how I practice art therapy than my formal education. There is a lot of learning through experience that happens when you are a therapist.
Why did you choose to become an Art Therapist?
I loved art and I was interested in the mind. Having worked with an art therapist myself I started thinking it would be a great way to give back in a way that was helpful to me
What is an average day like for you at the Renfrew Center? What does a typical session consist of with a client/patient?
I do around 10 groups a week and 5 individual sessions. With the groups I generally bring in a theme that people can interpret, they do art and then we discuss the work. The individual sessions are more open – we work with whatever issues the patient brings in.
Is there a difference in the work you do at Renfrew vs. your private practice?
Not any major differences
What is the most rewarding and challenging aspect of your job?
Getting to see into people through their work and helping them find clarification and meaning through the process of making art and talking about it.
How did you get to where you are today? Were there any significant experiences, actions, or connections, that have enabled you to reach your career as an Art Therapist?
I knew a lot about eating disorders because I had a sister with an eating disorder. My work with my art therapist had a profound impact on me. My interest in literature, art and film have all contributed to the way I practice art therapy.
Are you still a working artist? Do you still create your own artwork? If so, do you find it difficult to balance creating your own art with your career?
I do still paint. Having a child is much more of a limiting factor than having a career in terms of how much time I have to make art, but I have one day off a week which I often spend painting.
What advice would you give to an individual who is interested in pursuing Art Therapy?
Work with an art therapist! It’s so much different experiencing art therapy first hand than just learning about it in school.
Can you suggest any particular internships or opportunities that I might want to look into?
Think about what kind of population interests you and start making some phone calls – art therapists work in treatment centers, psych hospitals, oncology units, senior centers, etc.
Would it be okay for my professor or other students to follow up with you later on if they have any questions? If so, what is the best way for them to get in touch with you?
Srosenberg2@renfrewcenter.com
Website: http://sondrarosenberg.com/
