Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

SOUTHWESTERN VERMONT REGIONAL CANCER CENTER - Bennington, Vermont 
Creating Art Helps Heal

What is it? Breast cancer patients at Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center (SVRCC) have an opportunity to use creativity to aid their healing process. Each patient is invited to participate in a one hour-long, private art therapy sessions with an art therapist.  The program is supported by a grant from Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Who is it for?
Anyone diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing treatment at SVRCC. 

Why do they do it?
Individuals diagnosed with a serious disease may feel confused, out of control, or overwhelmed with emotions. Creating art with an experienced art therapist offers a safe, contained way to explore those difficult feelings. Someone with cancer can feel like the disease has taken over every aspect of life, especially during treatment. 

Impact: 
Cancer patients who participate in art therapy report feeling more relaxed and empowered, and exhibit higher self esteem than similar patients not engaged in art therapy. Art therapy nurtures the mind/body/spirit connection that is so essential to wellness.

Contact:  Rebecca Hewson-Steller
Integrative Therapies
Telephone:  802-440-4060
E-mail:  stere@phin.org