Linda van Dalen – ART THERAPY

CHAT is the first art therapy center in Slovakia. It was founded by Linda van Dalen, who helps children with autism and other disabilities through the method of sensory-based therapy, a methodology she developed herself. In practice, this means that children play and work with edible material, such as sunflower seeds and corn, which stimulates their senses, strengthens their nervous system, improves motor skills, and helps children with communicating. Activities at Linda’s art therapy center include Baby CHAT with sensory games for children that are up to 3 years olds or special art education classes called Kids CHAT, during which children learn empathy, diversity, and self-love.

“I work with children intuitively. Even if you read an infinite amount of information about disabled children, each one is unique and has his/her way of reacting. However, sensitive and gentle treatment applies to all of them. Sometimes it can take several weeks to build up the trust between a child and me. In my work, I follow the needs of children as well as their parents – at CHAT, we create a platform where we want to demonstrate our support for the parents who have children with disabilities.”

In addition to children’s workshops, Linda also trains teachers at elementary and specialized schools and organizes Wine & Paint art therapy evenings for adults. Together with a dance-movement therapist Zuzana Romanová, they aim to enhance the artistic support of the mental health of children and adults in Košice.

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