Who Am I?

My Story

My name is Monica Doreen and am a licensed art therapist and artist in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I received my duel masters degree in Art Therapy and Counseling. I draw inspiration from taking photos straight up into the skies of Santa Fe. Additional inspiration sources from a staple of New Mexican architecture; the skylight. 

Looking Up Wellness was born shortly after my dad passed away. He struggled mentally and physically in his last days. The paintings first began as my own art therapy process to manage and navigate grief. The practice of looking up reminded me how to stay in the present, rather than in the past. My family and I sat with my dad in hospice for eight days, where he couldn’t do much but look up at the ceiling. After further research, I know a painting above his bed would have eased his suffering. My family and I would treasure that painting. Knowing that patients and loved ones can benefit from this work, I am inspired and committed to help ease suffering. 

Looking Up Wellness is Published!

I Create in other ways too

“Look In” is introspective therapeutic artwork that is intuitive and process oriented. This work was created during the COVID-19 pandemic, and explores how to adapt while moving forward into many uncertainties. These works are for sale and currently showing at the Geneva Chavez Community Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

I also enjoy making commissioned works. You can review my hand drawn portraiture anywhere from family, pets, places, or celebrities. I work from one photograph or a few to create a personalized work.

~~ If its close to your heart, I can make it into art! ~~

Education

2014-2017

Southwestern College 

Santa Fe, NM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dual Masters In Art Therapy/ Counseling

 

LMHC Licensed in New Mexico

 

Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

 

Trauma Informed Expressive Arts Therapy Level 1

2007-2012

University of Cincinnati

Design, Architecture, Art

and Planning (DAAP)

Cincinnati, OH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bachelors of Fine Arts and Psychology Art Education

 

 

Concentration in Portraiture

 

 

Thesis work as social practice in Tijuana, Mexico

 

 

Volunteer work at Summit Behavioral Healthcare

 

2004-2007

School for Creative and Performing Arts

Cincinnati, OH

 

Majored in Visual Art and Percussion

 

Symphony and Concert Band