Rebecca’s Story
When I applied for college I decided to do what I love, as a giant step of wild faith, and see what came from it. I completed a BS in Drama Education, and then, wanting something more, I completed a Masters in Theater Arts, with my research centered on trauma and the healing power of collaborative, multimodal, creative work. I completed my graduate thesis in conjunction with a shelter for Missouri foster care youth, and through the magic that ensued via visible growth and healing in the participants’ lives, I was hooked.
From that point on (2006) I began developing a method for trauma-informed, arts-based, collaborative projects toward HEALING through the ARTS.
I spent 16 years using this method to lead projects, train interns, and teach professional counselors, educators and social workers to use the arts for healing with trauma survivors. I have led Healing Arts projects in India, Moldova, Budapest, and the US, at shelters, outreach centers, elementary schools, in mental health clinics and apartment complexes.
I loved working with a team.
But in November 2022 I found myself along with my family, in an unexpected move to the US, resettling in our hometown in the Midwest. The function of the Healing Arts method remains the same in this new context, but the form needs to adapt.
As a new resident of the US, I returned to a culture that has changed dramatically. Since 2020 the world has faced a mental health crisis with more anxiety and hopelessness than ever before. In 2020 we all learned that the world is unpredictable and we have so little control over … almost anything outside of ourselves, really.
Before you get overwhelmed, let me tell you what we should be excited about!
1) The world is global, and America is more of a beautifully diverse than ever.
2) Today’s culture values the arts! More degrees, centers, and I could go on…
3) Today’s culture is self-aware and values authenticity!
For those who are open to connection, conversation and creativity, committed to mental and emotional health, there are beautiful days ahead!
And THAT is something to be excited about!
If you have come looking for the connection between your artistic passion for the arts and your desire to meet the rising mental health crisis around you — or within yourself, as can often be the case– then you have come to the right place.
REBECCA GRANT SHULTS
Director, Trainer, Coach
Rebecca designed the Healing Arts method in 2006 to utilize the arts for healing with youth in the foster care system. She then designed and directed projects for abuse / trafficking survivors in South Asia for 5 years, and began leading international training events.
Rebecca earned a BS in Drama-Speech Education, an MA in Theater, and in 2020 a Graduate Certificate in Arts and Health from Lesley University, Boston.
Rebecca has 20+ years experience using the arts in mental health and education. She leads training seminars for educators and counselors internationally, and her intent is to develop a community of arts-based trauma responders across the globe.
TYLER SHULTS
Songwriting Coach
Tyler leads songwriting workshops and the Music and Healing portions of Healing Art Studios training events. He participated in the Healing Arts training course in 2012 and 2013, and has facilitated music and songwriting classes with children of all ages, Summer Arts camps, and university student small groups.
Tyler has a background in media and audio visual communications. He excels in digital media, and audio production, but his love for rhythm (marching band to rock band) and songwriting inspire others to express themselves and process their own journey in authentic ways. His workshops on songwriting are a favorite at Healing Art Studios events.