Dr. Gloria Horsley interviewed Sharon Strouse at the 2015 Association for Death Education and Counseling conference about Strouse’s book, Artful Grief: A Diary of Healing. Strouse lost her daughter to suicide and used art therapy herself to heal—today, she teaches others how to do the same. She was already an art therapist, but it took a year after her daughter’s death for Strouse to actively start using art in her own grieving process. “I should be doing what I offer to others,” she said, which is what kick-started her very first collage.

“My whole world changed,” she said. As a bereaved mother, she opened herself up to a modality that was compassionate yet let her explore her grief. Getting started can be a challenge. For Strouse, she sits down in peace with her materials. To create a collage, you just need some magazines, glue, and scissors. Ask yourself what you’re feeling in that moment and what’s going on. You’ll find that images and words appear before you. The process will come to you and help you let go.

Making Time for Grief

Simply showing up is enough. Carve out that time to dedicate to art therapy, and let your grief lead you down the path that’s most helpful in the moment. “Give that to yourself, and a whole other world will open up,” she says. You can find out more about art therapy processes in the book, and how Strouse has used different tactics throughout the years. There’s no need to be a pro or an artist.

Many of the images you’ll see you can do yourself. It’s never too early or too late to begin art therapy. Whenever you feel up for trying, collect magazines and let Strouse’s book guide you.

Gloria Horsley

Dr. Gloria Horsley is an internationally known grief expert, psychotherapist, and bereaved parent. She started "Open to Hope" to help the millions in the world with grief. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Nurse Specialist, and has worked in the field of family therapy for over 20 years. Dr. Horsley hosts the syndicated internet radio show, The Grief Blog which is one of the top ranked shows on Health Voice America. She serves the Compassionate Friends in a number of roles including as a Board of Directors, chapter leader, workshop facilitator, and frequently serves as media spokesperson. Dr. Horsley is often called on to present seminars throughout the country. She has made appearances on numerous television and radio programs including "The Today Show," "Montel Williams," and "Sallie Jessie Raphael." In addition, she has authored a number of articles and written several books including Teen Grief Relief with Dr. Heidi Horlsey, and The In-Law Survival Guide.

More Articles Written by Gloria