Wed

Sep 2025

Groups & Events

Creative Liberation: An Art Journaling Circle for Women of Color

This 10-week group is a space for women of color to explore creativity, healing, and connection through art journaling. Inspired by Brené Brown’s book, The Gifts of Imperfection, each week we’ll engage with one of the guideposts while reflecting on our own stories, identities, and lived experiences. Together, we’ll use writing, imagery, and mixed-media art as tools for self-expression and self-compassion—moving beyond perfectionism toward authenticity, belonging, and joy. No art experience is required—just a willingness to show up, create, and be in community.

Date and Time

Wednesdays · 5:00PM-6:30PM · 9/10/2025 - 11/12/2025

Facilitator

Vanessa Newton, LCSW-S, CDWF, EMDR Trained, TCYM Certified

Location

5800 Berkman Dr. Austin, TX 78723

investment

$75 per session for 10 weeks + a one time supply fee of $50; A non-refundable deposit of $100 is due at sign up to secure your spot in the group. Payment will be collected at the end of each session. **HSA & FSA accepted as payment.**

Details

What Is It And Who Is It For?

Our Art Journaling Group is designed specifically for women of color who seek a creative and expressive outlet to connect with their emotions. Through guided art journaling, participants will engage the creative parts of their brains, allowing them to explore and access deep emotions in a supportive and affirming environment. This group provides a unique space for women of color to express the full spectrum of their emotional experiences, from joy and hope to pain and resilience, all through the therapeutic medium of art.

Whether you're navigating life transitions, healing from past trauma, or simply looking for a creative way to process your feelings, this group offers a powerful, collective experience that fosters connection, self-awareness, and emotional well-being. No prior art experience is necessary—just a willingness to explore and express.

In This Art Journaling Group You Will:

Journal, Connect, Paint, Discuss topics of Vulnerability/Authenticity/Creativity, Move, Collaborate, Grow, Learn how to practice empathy with others, Play, Reflect, & Inspire each other

What Is Art Journaling?

According to Dina Wakly; "Simply put, an art journal is a journal in which you combine art and words to express yourself. That’s it. It’s not complex, and there really aren’t any rules for art journaling. It’s all about self-expression."

What’s All Included?

A workshop kit including:
- Gifts of Imperfection™ book 10th Anniversary Hardcover Edition
- Custom Gifts of Imperfection™ Art Journal
- Creative Materials

What Will I Be Doing In An Art Journaling Process Group?

Each group will consist of the following components:

A whole group check in with your fellow group members
An exploration of a different concept within the book each week
Engagement in a creative exercise
Processing of the exercise and your experience in small breakout groups

Registration

Register

*Required fields

Name*

Date of Birth*

Gender*

Relationship

Address Line 1*

Address Line 2*

City

State

Zip Code

Phone Number*

Email Address*

Would you like to be included in the Colors of Austin Counseling email list?*

Yes

Please select the name of the event you wish to attend?*

Do you have a therapist you could work with if something came up in the group requiring individual attention?*

Yes

No, please provide me with therapist referrals.

Have you experienced distressing life events (trauma, loss, etc.) that have significantly impacted your functioning and quality of life? If so, please provide information about how you have addressed these issues.

Have you struggled with any mental health disorders (addiction, depression, etc.) that have significantly impacted your functioning and quality of life? If so, please provide information about how you have addressed these issues.

What sparked your interest in the particular group, workshop and/or intensive?*

What would you like to accomplish as a result of attending the group?*

What previous experience have you had, if any, group therapy or other support groups? What worked well for you? What difficulties did you have, if any?*

Do you have any physical or movement-based restrictions? (If so, please discuss what worked well for you and what difficulties you may have.)*

What concerns, if any, do you have about participating in group?*

How would you respond as a group member if someone in the group dominated the discussion?*

How would you respond as a group member if someone never participated in the group discussion?*

What else would you like your facilitators to know about you?

What is the best way to follow up with you?*

Thank you for inquiring! We will be in touch soon.

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