Updated November 21, 2022

As the nation’s leading non-profit organization for advancing the art therapy profession, the American Art Therapy Association (AATA) provides our members and the public we serve with important content to support the wellbeing of all individuals, families, and communities. The following resource offer information about the traumatic impact and aftereffects of gun-related violence in our communities, families, and schools, as well as in the media.

Art therapists are master-level clinicians who facilitate active art making, the creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. Through the use of art, individuals can express, manage, and explore coping strategies to aid in managing strong emotions, reactions, and effects experienced due to crisis and trauma. Art therapists are trained in trauma-informed care and are well equipped to support communities hit by tragedy and those who are distressed as a result of tragic events and experiences. In addition to providing support in the wake of a tragedy art therapists promote safe communities and support violence prevention strategies through the life-affirming efforts of art-making and creativity.

About Gun Violence, Trauma, Coping, and Mental Health

Mental Health Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community

Mental Health Resources for Children

SAMHSA Hotline

  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Hotline: The SAMHSA Disaster Distress Hotline provides 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors for people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. This toll-free, multilingual and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster.
    • Online access to hotline information
    • Contact the hotline by phone: 800-985-5990 (For TTY/hearing impaired access, call 800-846-8517)
    • Contact the hotline by text: Text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746 (Spanish speakers: Text ‘Hablanos’ to 66746)

Resources for AATA Members 

 

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