My name is McKenzie Rich (she/her) and I am an art therapist and clinical counselor. I specialize in using art materials to help children and adolescents express themselves. Art allows one to externalize an internal experience, gain reflective distance, and integrate these parts into a unified sense of self.
I work with the whole child, seeking to address mind, body, and spirit through creative expression. Vocalizing certain emotions and experiences can be challenging, if not impossible at times. The act of creating can bring healing. By integrating art therapy with creative play, movement, and mindful body awareness, I invite individuals to find their unique voice.
About Me
As an art therapist, I honor young people’s instinctual methods of exploring the world to begin the process of healing.
Experience
My most recent work has been with children, adolescents, and young adults in outpatient therapy at Bridge Counseling & Wellness in Louisville, KY. Bridge has built a community of providers using evidenced-based holistic practices in a group practice environment. I also currently serve as secretary on the Kentucky Art Therapy Association (KYATA) Board.
Previously, I worked with students, families, and staff in Oldham County Public Schools as a Mental Health Practitioner through the challenges of a pandemic year. Before that, I worked for nearly five years with a variety of populations of children, adolescents, and adults at U of L Health: Peace Hospital (formerly Our Lady of Peace Psychiatric Hospital). My particular passion and focus was with the Innovations program, serving young children with developmental and intellectual disabilities and those on the autism spectrum.
Out of these experiences, my approach has evolved to be client-centered, drawing on my knowledge and experience with art psychotherapy, art as therapy, creative play, and a mindful exploration of somatic experiences in the nervous system. I am also an Integrated Mental Health Professional (IMHP). This certification allows me to apply evidenced-based holistic practices in the treatment of mind, body, and spirit.
Education
I received my M.Ed. in Counseling and Personnel Services with a Concentration in Art Therapy from the University of Louisville.
Credentials
Registered Art Therapist - Board Certified (ATR-BC) #19-248