Windows: creative therapy for women only

Windows to Empowerment, a creative-arts program for women sponsored by DOVES, will be offered at the Hangin' Art Gallery in Arlee on Monday evenings 6:15 - 8 p.m. from April 9 to May 14.

The program will be facilitated by Jennifer Hudson, LCPC, and Jennifer West, a graduate student in the University of Montana Counseling Program. Also participating will be Maxine Garcia, Outreach Advocate for DOVES, Lake County's crime victim advocate program based in Polson.

According to Ms. Hudson, "As women, most of us have busy lives and wear many hats. We are mothers, daughters, friends, employees, partners, citizens, etc. Many of us spend much of our days in service to others. We would like you to consider and honor this group as your time for you: for growth and healing, for relaxation and centering. Please come in comfortable clothes you don't mind getting messy."

This six-week group will use visual image-making, and other creative therapy techniques such as guided imagery and creative writing, as instruments for personal exploration, discovery and healing. No artistic "skill" or knowledge is needed. The role of the facilitators is to craft a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment to allow the participants' creative processes to unfold.

Class size is limited. To reserve your space, or to find out more about the program, call Maxine at DOVES, 883-3350 or toll free at 1-800-831-9987.