Clinical Spotlight: Julie Corriveau, Art Therapist
1. Describe yourself in one sentence.
I am a sensitive, spontaneous, and authentic person.
2. What led you to work in this field?
During my visual arts studies, mental health emerged as a central theme, and I had the opportunity to integrate and deepen this topic in my artistic practice. Later, I felt compelled to explore new directions in search of answers, which led me to art therapy.
3. What motivates you most in your work?
Being a witness to people’s creative process, seeing them discover their potential, seeing them surprise themselves and feel proud as they observe their work. It is a privilege to share these precious and intimate moments with everyone.
4. What is one thing you wish everyone knew about art therapy?
Art has existed since the beginning of time and is part of what it means to be human. Creation is essential and takes many forms. We all have creative potential. Art therapy with an art therapist allows us to pick up where our creative impulse left off and reconnect with that ever-living source. Art therapy isn’t just about “making something beautiful” — it’s about taking risks, trying and failing, tolerating (or not) what is ugly, and through it all, finding one’s path, one creation at a time. The focus remains on the process, allowing the emergence of images that truly resonate.
5. Colored pencils, paint, or collage?
All three at once or one at a time! It all depends on what draws me in when I sit down to create.
Julie Corriveau, Art Therapist ATPQ
Lyall Day Hospital: Severe Disruptive Behavior Disorders Program, External Clinic in Pedo-psychiatry: child and adolescent services, CIUSSS de l’Ouest-de-l’île- de Montréal