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. Parker ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 981 was adopted by the House on May 4, 2009, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House