July 19, 2018
Terri Giller, M.Ed., ATR-BC works at the Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault, providing art therapy services to those who have experienced sexual violence. As the secretary of the Virginia Art Therapy Association and former Vice President of the Tennessee Art Therapy Association, she has been actively involved in licensure efforts in both states. Giller values her AATA membership for the networking and continuing education opportunities it provides. “Having a community of art therapists has always been important to me. I feel that connection is a must in this profession, since we typically work in settings in which we are the only art therapist!”
After earning her B.F.A. from Millikin University in Decatur, IL, Giller went on to graduate with her master’s from the University of Louisville in 2007. She has worked as an art therapist in four states, serving a wide range of clients in a variety of settings, including: children and adults with developmental disabilities and behavioral/emotional issues; older adults in a skilled nursing facility; and individuals with mood disorders and substance abuse issues at an inpatient psychiatric facility. She has also contracted with nonprofits to offer services to individuals with Epilepsy and eating disorders.
Giller believes “art therapy is effective because creating art has a way of bringing individuals out of their usual patterns of thinking. It promotes problem solving, self-awareness, self-acceptance, and resiliency — all of which are imperative for the healing process!”
“Untitled” by Terri Giller. Acrylic on board.
Artist Statement: “I have found that looking through photos of my spring, summer, and fall hikes and painting them in the winter is a way to still stay connected to nature (and stay warm!). I enjoy layering the paint and then creating texture by subtracting by wiping with textured fabric or sandpaper.