Virtual Mental Health Mondays Exploring Art Therapy with Valerie Hanks, MAAT, ATR

Join us for an informative and experiential session with art therapist Valerie Hanks. Through the creative process, participants will engage in a guided art directive designed to foster self-awareness, encourage reflection, and explore personal strengths and experiences through visual expression. Using whatever art materials are available, participants will create a visual reflection and have the opportunity to gain insight, connect with others, and experience the therapeutic benefits of creativity. No artistic experience is necessary.

Valerie Hanks

Valerie Hanks serves as a Registered Art Therapist for a wide range of patients and families from pediatrics and teens at Children’s of Alabama Hospital to adults throughout UAB Hospital. Valerie received her Master of Arts for Art Therapy with an Emphasis in Counseling at St. Mary-of-the-Woods College, IN. She received her Associates of Applied Arts Degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Houston and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Art Studio from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Valerie is a member of the American Art Therapy Association and the Alabama Art Therapy Association. She is passionate about art and the powerful way art can enhance a patient’s well-being as well as increase opportunities for communicating through creative processes of art making, Valerie enjoys bringing a small bit of joy through art into a patient’s life and help the patient tell a part of their story. Valerie counts it a privilege to offer art therapy to patients and families, knowing this gift has the potential to continue to benefit them emotionally, psychologically, spiritually, and physically for the rest of their lives. In her personal life, Valerie finds joy in her faith, family, hiking, traveling, and connections with friends.