September 21, 2001

MGH art therapist offers comfort through creativity

MGH cancer patients have access to a number of services, from the clinical and caregiving to the spiritual and social. Thanks to a new offering through the MGH Cancer Center's HOPES (Helping Our Patients and Families through Education and Support) Program, patients--and their families, friends and caregivers--can find solace and support in artistic expression as well.

Art therapist Elizabeth Cook began offering "The Healing Power of Creative Expression" at the MGH in January. After a summer break, the workshops resume this month. Art therapy sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 1 to 2 pm. There also will be a new addition this fall--poetry therapy, with an inaugural workshop taking place Oct. 9 from 11 am to noon. All workshops will be held in the Cancer Resource Room on Cox 1.

Pictured above: Elizabeth Cook, far right, conducts a workshop with patient Pete Simmons and his wife, Judi

Cook began her career at the MGH 40 years ago as a chemist. At the age of 60, she decided to earn a degree in experimental art therapy--a field she describes as "using music, arts, sight and sound to help people express themselves."

The workshop sessions involve a unique combination of meditation, interaction and artistic expression. "It's very important to give patients the chance to tell their story," Cook explains. "Art therapy is about creating a safe space, encouraging people to explore different forms of art and to experiment in whatever way they choose."

Cook emphasizes that no particular background in art or poetry is required to participate in the sessions. "The theme is caring, which everyone has the capacity to do," she says.

In addition to patients and their families, the art and poetry therapy groups are open to all MGH employees. For more information, call (617) 72-HOPES.