Jessica Gross

As an emerging art therapist, I see myself as kind, compassionate, and understanding. My life experiences allow me to relate to my clients and show them empathy. Due to my life experiences, I can understand my clients and show them empathy. For instance, much of my artwork explores my identity as a brain injury survivor. My disability does not define me, but it is still a part of my identity and has influenced the person I am today. Resilience is another theme displayed by my artwork. I have experienced multiple setbacks and hardships since entering grad school, including the loss of my grandmother and the COVID pandemic. l have been able to overcome these obstacles and continue towards my goal of becoming an art therapist. Lastly, I use my artwork to explore my identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I did not begin to accept that part of my identity until I was in my early twenties. It has been a long journey, but now I have fully accepted this part of my identity, and I am more capable of helping my clients who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.