A two-week long art exhibit at Providence Care Hospital showcased a stunning display of various artwork that clients at Providence Care Hospital created with the assistance of Lisa Hewitt, who is a Direct Peer Support Worker with Peer Support South East Ontario. Through her unique art workshops, Lisa is providing support for people living with mental health and/or addiction as a means of managing and working toward being well.
Lisa provides peer support at Providence Care Hospital twice a week in the Art Hive. The Art Hive is a community hub where clients gather together to create art which Lisa facilitates.
“There are a lot of people who have natural talent with art, but there are some that come to the Art Hive and say they don’t think they can do it. With support from myself, volunteers and other clients, most are willing to give it a try. There is art in all of us, we just have to let our creativity flow and not worry about being perfect! For most, it’s an opportunity to display their new found talent and really feel proud of what they have done,” explains Lisa.
Lisa provides opportunities that align with the Transitional Discharge Model at Peer Support South East Ontario. She provides one-on-one intentional and deliberate peer support through wellness related groups and activities like her art class, to clients on inpatient mental health units at Providence Care. In fact, many clients tell Lisa how relaxed they are when they come to the Art Hive.
“We really do see the positive effects of gathering together each week. Clients have reduced anxiety and frequently comment about how awesome this initiative is and how much coming to this space means to them,” describes Lisa.
The partnership between Peer Support South East Ontario and Providence Care provides opportunities for mental health clients to create in a safe and supportive environment. Clients look forward to joining Lisa each week in the Art Hive and taking advantage of the therapeutic opportunities that are having amazing benefits.
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