81R9234 JGH-D
By: Parker H.R. No. 981
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The practice of art therapy has greatly benefited
the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of countless Texans;
and
WHEREAS, Based on the finding that creative self-expression
can be a healing and life-enhancing practice, art therapy helps
individual patients reduce stress, increase self-esteem and
self-awareness, and resolve conflicts and problems in their lives;
it can also be used to help patients dealing with such serious
issues as depression, anxiety, abuse and domestic violence,
physical and mental disability, and trauma and loss; and
WHEREAS, Art therapy combines visual arts such as drawing,
painting, and sculpture with the techniques of counseling and
psychotherapy; it has been found to be very beneficial to patients
of all ages and backgrounds, both individually and in groups; and
WHEREAS, Art therapists are trained professionals whose
degree requirements include courses in counseling, ethics and
standards of practice, individual and family techniques, and human
and creative development, as well as experience in clinical and
other settings; they provide skilled assessment that can help
ensure a patient's healing and growth, and they offer therapy in a
variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and schools; and
WHEREAS, This innovative technique has played an important
role in bettering the lives of many Texans, and art therapists
across the Lone Star State are to be commended for their skill,
insight, and compassion; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby recognize November of 2009 as Art Therapy Month
and extend sincere best wishes to art therapists and their patients
across Texas for success in their important work.