March 1, 2018
Katie Racanelli, ATR-BC, LMHC, is the Assistant Director of the Cape Ann Adult Behavioral Learning Center in Salem, MA, where she leads art therapy groups for those recovering from trauma or addiction. Racanelli serves on the board of the New England Art Therapy Association (NEATA) as the Legislative Co-Chair and previously held the position of Treasurer (2013-17). She values her AATA membership because it keeps her connected with art therapists around the country and for the guidance from the National Office through local legislative processes.
She shares, “I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Assembly of Chapters. I love getting 
updates about other chapters and feeding off the momentum across the country. It has also been comforting to know that members from other chapters are willing to share the fruits of their labor so that the path is easier for us.”
After earning her Master’s degree from Drexel University in 2011, Ms. Racanelli worked briefly as a children’s counselor at a domestic violence emergency shelter and gained experience working in day treatment, a program model that focuses on long term psychiatric rehabilitation for adults with severe, persistent mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders.
Racanelli describes how art therapy is effective, “It offers the opportunity to express oneself when we have no words, when we feel overwhelmed. The art product gives visual validation of our internal experiences.” For the future of the profession, Racanelli envisions, “Art therapy licenses in every state and licensure reciprocity between states. I also hope that the art therapy profession attracts more interest in solid research to further legitimize the field.”
“Untitled” by Katie Racanelli. Oil Paint on Canvas. 2010.