Creative Evolution: From Hairstylist to Art Therapy Practitioner
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Creativity has always been my compass, guiding me through life’s twists and turns. From a young age, I found joy in transforming everyday objects into art. One of my earliest projects, which I fondly remember, was a series I called “Rockheads.” These were simple rocks I found, painted with faces, and attached to hand-drawn bodies on paper. My sister became my first-ever art patron, giving me five dollars in exchange for one of my creations—a moment that set the stage for a lifelong journey as an artist and entrepreneur.
Right out of high school, I followed a different creative path and enrolled in Cosmetology School, becoming a licensed independent contractor at just 18. My original dream was to become a high school counselor, but I soon discovered that I had my own way of counseling—behind the stylist's chair. For 12 years, I helped my clients look and feel their best, building strong bonds through conversation, encouragement, and creativity.
While balancing my career, I put myself through college, twice! From earning my associate degree at Austin Community College to achieving my BFA in Communication Design from Texas State University, I juggled being a single mother of three, working 3 jobs and pursuing my dreams. My goal was always to create a better life for myself and my children, and each step brought me closer to that vision.
I landed what I thought was my dream career in advertising. However, within six months of transferring to a new position, I was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. This was before the days of the Affordable Care Act, and I had to make the difficult decision to resign from my job as I’d run out of leave and my health and survival became my top priorities.
In the midst of that challenge, I turned to the blank canvases I had tucked away in my closet. Painting became a form of meditation and healing during my chemotherapy treatments. Through art, I found solace, a way to ground my body and mind during the most turbulent time of my life. I shared my work with friends on social media, and began selling my work. It was then that I recognized the profound therapeutic power of art—and that’s when I knew I had found my true calling.
In August 2024, I completed 21 hours of continuing education and earned my Art Therapy Practitioner’s Certification through an internationally accredited program. I’m now eager to bring my expertise and passion into the community, offering professional art therapy programs that support healing of the mind, body, and soul.
Right out of high school, I followed a different creative path and enrolled in Cosmetology School, becoming a licensed independent contractor at just 18. My original dream was to become a high school counselor, but I soon discovered that I had my own way of counseling—behind the stylist's chair. For 12 years, I helped my clients look and feel their best, building strong bonds through conversation, encouragement, and creativity.
While balancing my career, I put myself through college, twice! From earning my associate degree at Austin Community College to achieving my BFA in Communication Design from Texas State University, I juggled being a single mother of three, working 3 jobs and pursuing my dreams. My goal was always to create a better life for myself and my children, and each step brought me closer to that vision.
I landed what I thought was my dream career in advertising. However, within six months of transferring to a new position, I was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. This was before the days of the Affordable Care Act, and I had to make the difficult decision to resign from my job as I’d run out of leave and my health and survival became my top priorities.
In the midst of that challenge, I turned to the blank canvases I had tucked away in my closet. Painting became a form of meditation and healing during my chemotherapy treatments. Through art, I found solace, a way to ground my body and mind during the most turbulent time of my life. I shared my work with friends on social media, and began selling my work. It was then that I recognized the profound therapeutic power of art—and that’s when I knew I had found my true calling.
In August 2024, I completed 21 hours of continuing education and earned my Art Therapy Practitioner’s Certification through an internationally accredited program. I’m now eager to bring my expertise and passion into the community, offering professional art therapy programs that support healing of the mind, body, and soul.