Professional Experience
Kelly L. Burns, MA, LMHC, ATR, is a psychotherapist who works with children, adults and families to find ways to use the expressive arts to enhance resilience, emotional regulation, form healthy attachments and express what they haven't been able to in verbal therapy. Kelly has worked in a variety of settings, such as inpatient behavioral health, victims of domestic violence, disaster relief and in private practice. She also regularly presents and trains other professionals on the benefits of the arts in the therapeutic setting when working with victims of trauma. Kelly believes in the healing opportunities through the arts and is dedicated to sharing this information through writing and research.
Education
Kelly completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago where she was recognized as a Merit Scholar during her tenure. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology: Art Therapy at Adler University in Chicago, IL. Kelly was recognized as a leader within her cohort and was elected president of Adler's Art Therapy Association during her 2nd year.
"My Philosophy on Mental Health & Wellness"
As a mental health professional, I have the educational background and training on how to help others find their way to wellness by addressing their mental health needs. As an artist, I understand how creative expression is vital to improving one's mental health and state of well-being. I have a passion and drive to share this with others, whether it's in the art therapy studio or online through articles. I believe in the healing powers of the expressive therapies and how anyone can use them to improve their sense of wellness and mental health.
