Episode 51: Finding Harmony Through Creative Expression with Bodhi Simpson

Is there one right way to start your healing journey? Are there ways to go beyond traditional therapy methods to heal your trauma? Bodhi Simpson, today's Live Authentically guest, has found a way to bring creativity and healing into one amazing practice.

Bodhi is a registered art therapist and works to combine creativity with other psychological modalities such as meditation, mindfulness, positive psychology and cognitive behavior therapy. Her journey began early on in life. 

Art as a Healing Mechanism 

Bodhi was born into a family with years of unhealed trauma. She felt scared, a lot. To cope with her fear, she would often lock herself in her room and start drawing. Through art, she was able to express her feelings which in turn helped her heal. 

Like most creatives, Bodhi wasn’t pushed toward a career in art. She went to college to study mental health and human studies, as she also had a passion for psychology and helping others. After her undergraduate studies, she discovered the Clinical Art Therapy program at Springfield College and decided to apply, not thinking she’d be accepted. 

A Sign From the Universe

After a horrific car crash, Bodhi’s car was completely destroyed. Miraculously, she survived the crash with minimal injuries. This was the sign she needed to go forward with her art therapy career. Shortly after the accident, she was accepted at Springfield College to start her graduate degree. The rest is history!

Bridging the Gap Between Art and Psychology

Through her practice, Bodhi helps people from all walks of life become aware of their traumas and problems through creative practices, whether it’s painting, drawing or just scribbling something on a piece of paper. She describes herself as a guide for her clients, as they go through their own personal self-discovery journeys. 

Her advice to our listeners is to find a creative outlet to express yourself. It doesn’t matter what it is. Doodle something on paper, get a set of sidewalk chalk, paint something or make a collage. She believes that projecting how we feel into something visual will help us get a better perspective on why we feel the way we do and how we can heal from our past traumas. 

Unlike art class, it’s not about the finished piece, but about connecting with the feelings and thoughts you experience during the creation process. 

Are you ready to learn more about art therapy? Connect with Bodhi through her website, and learn more about what services she offers. Keep up with her on Facebook, Instagram and check out her YouTube channel.