Art Therapy uses a variety of artistic materials as therapeutic tools, while Music Therapy involves listening to and creating music to promote a sense of calm and well-being. Our program focuses on the process of creating art and making music, not the finished product. As such, no skills or prior art or music experience are required to participate. This program, which is offered to patients at no cost, is designed to foster personal growth as well as physical, emotional, and mental health.
Beyond improved vitals, CDC’s Creative Arts Therapies program offers one additional crucial benefit: it boosts self-esteem.
“Our program provides patients with a creative outlet that allows them to explore a variety of talents. The level of skill and detail found in many of these pieces is truly amazing.”
The use of Creative Arts Therapies at Centers for Dialysis Care (CDC) began in 1991, during the internship of Maryann Farago. Farago, who was working towards her Master’s Degree in Art Therapy, incorporated art into her sessions with hemodialysis patients. Over time, these efforts caught the attention of then CEO, Diane Wish, who recognized art therapy’s value toward enhancing patient satisfaction and quality of life. Wish’s progressive vision and unwavering support allowed the program to grow and thrive. More than 25 years later, it is now a staple offered at more than a dozen facilities within CDC.
