Art as Medicine

Growing research suggests that art can be a powerful tool for healing. For example, a study of hospitalized people found that participating in art therapy for an average of 50 minutes significantly improved their moods, and lowered levels of pain and anxiety.

Art therapy offers a supportive, evidence-based approach to improving mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, with very few, if any, side effects. Engaging in art-making has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, increase confidence, and foster a stronger sense of self. Whether practiced individually or in groups, art therapy can also enhance social connection and encourage active participation in one’s own healing.

Benefits of Art Therapy

• Reduction of anxiety
• Increased sense of connection to others
• Empowering
• Creates movement and activation
• Helps with insight
• Form of expression beyond words

Art for Renewal: Art Therapy for Relaxation & Resilience

This supportive art therapy group is designed for adults seeking a creative outlet to foster emotional expression, relaxation, and personal resilience. Through guided art-making experiences, participants will explore a variety of materials and techniques that encourage self-reflection, stress reduction, and inner strength.

No prior art experience is necessary, just a willingness to engage in the process. Each session offers a safe, nonjudgmental space to connect with others, express feelings visually, and build coping skills through creative exploration.

Series Details:

• Where: UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute Multipurpose Room 1109 (3113 Bellevue Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219, free parking available in the attached garage)
• When: Spring Session: Monday, January 26 through Monday, April 27, 2026 (no session March 16). Mondays from 11 a.m. - noon
• Cost: No-Cost thanks to generous donations from the Strike Out MS Fund and supplies donations from the Weaver Family
• Registration: Registration is required via our Osher Registration System (first-time logging in or need assistance? See the Osher Registration Guide below)

Art Therapy for People Living with MS & Movement Disorders

Reduce stress, connect with others in a creative and supportive art therapy group designed for individuals living with multiple sclerosis and movement disorders.

No art experience needed, just a willingness to connect with yourself and others!

Series Details:

• Where: UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute 1109 (3113 Bellevue Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219, free parking available in the attached garage)
• When: Spring Session: Monday, January 26 through Monday, April 27, 2026 (no session March 16). Mondays from 1 - 2:45 p.m.
• Cost: No-Cost thanks to generous donations from the Strike Out MS Fund and supplies donations from the Weaver Family
• Registration: Registration is required via our Osher Registration System (first-time logging in or need assistance? See the Osher Registration Guide below)

Art therapy is guided by Meera Rastogi, PhD, LPAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Psychologist and Board-Certified Art Therapist, and UC student assistants.

The Art Therapy Program is a collaboration with the University of Cincinnati’s Pre-Art Therapy program, the Waddell Center for Multiple Sclerosis, UC James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Center for Parkinson’s disease and Movement Disorders, Osher Center for Integrative Health, University of Cincinnati, and UC Clermont. Materials sponsored by Strike Out MS and donations from the Weaver family.

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