My path to deathcare has been shaped by lived experiences as well as educational and professional training. During my own grief journey, I’ve followed my bodily awareness through movement/ dance and art-making to address and process my emotions. In my educational and professional life, I use Art Therapy to explore people’s needs and emotions. My goal with clients is to aid in processing their grief and to help them reconnect emotions, sensations, thoughts, and experiences to achieve overall congruence.
I had the opportunity to bear witness to the end-of-life journeys and deaths of my paternal grandfather and grandmother as well as my maternal grandmother. Each of these losses brought up different needs and considerations. I noticed that the loss of a friend due to mental health issues and that of a beloved pet both brought up new aspects of grief that enabled me to reassess and learn more about myself. Through reflection, expression of emotions, disconnections and reconnections, storytelling, and creativity , I was able to access different facets of myself and grow within my own understanding of life, death, and grief. This, in turn, aided me in helping others.
I have a Bachelor's degree from Eckerd College with an Art Therapy Concentration, combining psychology, human development, and fine arts, as well as a Masters in Art Therapy with a Specialization in Counseling from Seton Hill University. I also have an End-of-Life Doula certification from the University of Vermont. I take an eclectic, integrative, and holistic approach to therapy, utilizing Art Therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness practices to better understand the needs, concerns, and wants of all I work with. I strive to offer a collaborative environment built on transparency and authenticity for those I work with as well as their families.
My aim for any and all deathcare work is to create a safe, trusting space grounded in collaboration, presence, and healing. Incorporation of the micro, mezzo, and macros needs of clients provides a holistic and communal healing opportunity. I offer art therapy to everyone I work with because it provides a container to hold tough feelings and vulnerability I have witnessed the power of rituals through art therapy exploration in helping individuals and their families to move through the end of life toward finding healing and peace.
When I take my therapist/ doula hat off, I can be found reading, watching movies, hiking, and making art- painting, drawing, mixed media, jewelry and dance. I love to spend time with animals, especially my two cats. I also have a love and affinity for rocks of all shapes, colors, and sizes.
Please feel free to contact me for doula assistance, collaboration, or other inquiries at:
gigibottone0@gmail.com