August 3, 2017
Amy Hahn, ATR, LCPC has worked in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings with groups and individuals. Through art therapy, she has served diverse populations, including people with dual-diagnosis, adults living with HIV/AIDS, at-risk youth, and older adults with dementia. She recently started a private practice (May, 2017) and is a professor at Chippewa Valley Technical College. Mrs. Hahn served on the Board of the Illinois Art Therapy Association (2008-2015) and has valued support from the AATA at all levels of her career. She says, “AATA played a big role providing community and guidance while in graduate school and at the start of my career.” In particular, she cites the professional opportunities, such as participation as a Conference attendee and presenter, Journal access, and other online resources as useful tools for her career development.
Mrs. Hahn earned a dual Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and Art Therapy from Adler University. In her practice, she integrates cognitive behavioral therapy with a humanistic approach, highlighting Adlerian art therapy. Her artwork includes collaborative art projects, graphic design, sequin portraits, and artistic snow globes.
Hahn explains that art therapy is effective as it provides additional benefits compared to “talk therapy alone because art creation activates the entire brain.” She prefers making art alongside her clients as it “levels the playing field between participant and therapist when both people are engaged in the creative process.”
Topics within art therapy that Hahn is passionate about include: social justice, incorporating new technology such as computer generated images during art therapy sessions, achieving art therapy licensure in every state, art therapy becoming eligible for insurance reimbursement, and using art to unite communities with disparate opinions. To learn more about Mrs. Hahn, visit her website.
“Untitled” by Amy Hahn. 2016. Sequin and ink on watercolor paper.