Ellamaya Steen-Hyman
Chicago,IL
Summary
Proactive and dedicated emerging art therapy professional with a strong foundation in arts education, hospitality, and community engagement. Expertise in collaborating with neurodiverse adults, children, and families in both structured and informal environments. Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and committed to implementing trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices within low-income and marginalized communities, including those involved in juvenile justice, medical, and psychiatric settings. Passionate about fostering healing and personal growth through the transformative power of art therapy.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Babysitter
Charleston, SC
01.2014 - Current
- Provided consistent care for children ages 3–13, creating structured, engaging, and safe environments.
- Communicated regularly with parents about behavior, routines, and developmental needs.
Art Program Assistant
HEART All-Inclusive Arts Community
Summerville, SC
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Assisted adults on the neurodiverse spectrum in individual and group art activities.
- Supported preparation, display, and celebration of client artwork in exhibitions.
- Maintained a safe, supportive, and predictable environment using clear routines and boundaries.
Lifeguard & Cabin Counselor
Camp Judaea
Hendersonville, NC
06.2018 - 08.2018
- Ensured physical and emotional safety of children in cabin and aquatic environments.
- Led creative and recreational activities that promoted social skills and confidence.
Art Project Assistant
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
Charleston, SC
10.2015 - 11.2015
- Facilitated developmentally appropriate art projects for children, supporting self-expression and fine motor skills.
- Modeled positive behavior, emotional regulation, and cooperative play in group settings.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Art & Visual Culture
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC01.2025
Diploma - undefined
Wando High School
Mt. Pleasant, SC05.2019
Skills
- Trauma-informed care; crisis intervention; stress management techniques
- Multicultural competence; adaptive communication; professional boundaries
- Drawing, painting, sculpture, jewelry-making, and mixed-media
- Art-based assessments and art therapy research (academic exposure)
- Facilitation of group and individual art activities
- Strong work ethic
- Following directions
- Conflict resolution
- Adaptability and resilience
- Active listening
- Self motivation
- Positive reinforcement
- Critical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Excellent communication
- Child Development Understanding
- Positive and professional
- Personable nature
- Certified in first aid and CPR
OTHER WORK EXPERIENCE
- Hostess / General Store Sales Associate, Hyman's Seafood Restaurant
- Retail Sales Associate, Two Brunettes Boutique
- Deli Worker, Wild Dunes
- Skills learned: communication, boundaries, de-escalation, cultural humility, working under pressure.
6. Trauma-Informed Experience & Global Context
- Working with neurodiverse adults
- At-risk youth / marginalized communities (Israel/Rwanda program, adults with disabilities, etc.)
- Safety, predictability, and collaboration
- Respecting cultural and linguistic diversity
- Studied and worked with children and at-risk teens in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Kigali, gaining exposure to global perspectives on trauma, resilience, and community-based support.
Languages
Swedish
Limited Working
ASL
Full Professional
Hebrew
Limited Working
Timeline
Art Program Assistant
HEART All-Inclusive Arts Community
05.2023 - 08.2023
Lifeguard & Cabin Counselor
Camp Judaea
06.2018 - 08.2018
Art Project Assistant
Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry
10.2015 - 11.2015
Babysitter
01.2014 - Current
Diploma - undefined
Wando High School
Bachelor of Arts - Art & Visual Culture
Appalachian State University