Claudia P. Jauregui

I look back on my journey to become an art therapist, understanding that this path I chose has not been finalized by the completion of my master’s degree. Becoming an art therapist is a path of continuous growth and acceptance of who I am and the constant exploration of how I can use the arts to help others through their struggles and to promote their wellbeing.

My journey into art therapy has been a long way around. My life experiences led me to disconnect from my true self. Although I always had a desire to explore art I started doing it when I was in my thirties. Still, it was many years later when I came to witness and experience the expressive and healing power of art. It was a time of spiritual growth in my life and a new awareness of myself. The decision to become an art therapist was the result of personal transformation, a decision of courage to pursue my dreams, to connect to a bigger purpose, and to own my story.

The pieces I present here are a testimony of my growth and the resilience that this journey requires from all of us who have chosen this path. My art-making is mainly intuitive. I created pieces throughout the program by experimenting many times with media that was new to me. Letting go of the fear of not getting a piece the way I imagined it is a part of the process that I have come to enjoy. There is always insight that comes from it that is revealing, authentic and empowering.

I have learned through this journey to embrace what unfolds. There is always growing in becoming. I let emerge through my art what needed to be known, I healed wounds that were keeping me stuck, and I started the process of reconnecting to my true self. For me, art therapy facilitates naturally this inner expression, acceptance, and transformation. As a future therapist, I desire to encourage others to use art this way. I consider it an honor to guide and support those who are willing to engage in this process through their own journeys of resilience.