Gariné Achikian
Reston,VA
Summary
Experienced in facilitating individual and group art therapy sessions, including body-based interventions, to promote psychological healing and self-expression. Skilled in integrating creative approaches to address emotional and mental health issues. Strong understanding of client-centered therapy and the therapeutic impact of art across diverse settings, including private practice, nonprofit organizations, and educational clinics.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager of Operations
Achikian Goldsmiths
03.2021 - Current
- Manage daily operations of a long-standing family-owned small business with 3,000+ local customers
- Oversee sales, inventory, and custom services while maintaining exceptional client relationships
- Lead marketing efforts including social media, promotions, and community outreach to drive engagement and sales
- Train and supervise staff, coordinate vendors, and ensure smooth repair and order processes
Private Yoga Instructor
Self-employed
03.2021 - Current
- Provide personalized one-on-one and small-group yoga instruction tailored to individual needs
- Design and lead safe, effective yoga practice with customized sequences and poses
- Hold space for verbal processing while actively listening to goals and concerns related to stress, patterns of mindlessness, and feelings of disconnection
- Integrate a holistic approach that includes a strong therapeutic rapport to create a comfortable, supportive environment for clients
Front Desk Receptionist
Oak Hill Psychological Services LLC
03.2021 - 05.2022
- Became familiar with clinical procedures and the structure of a mental health setting, supporting both administrative flow and client experience
- Managed client schedules, balancing therapist availability and workload
- Ensured confidentiality of sensitive data and maintained organized client records
Strategic Assistant
Armenian American Cultural Association
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Developed tools and materials for Lobby Day and other ASHA/USAID events
- Created marketing materials highlighting Wellness Center success stories in Armenia
- Managed emails and correspondence to improve communication and business processes
Education
Master of Arts - Art Therapy
George Washington University
Alexandria, VA05-2025
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Shenandoah University
Winchester, VA12.2018
Skills
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Group Facilitation
- LGBTQIA Advocate
- Cultural Responsiveness
- Yoga/Embodied Healing
Clinical Experience
Intern Art Therapist – Sage House Art Therapy , Reston, VA
September 2024 - May 2025
- Conducted up to six weekly sessions with children and adults
- Facilitated art therapy groups in schools and the community
- Managed consults, documentation, and scheduling via SimplePractice
- Coordinated care with professionals; engaged in regular supervision
Intern Art Therapist – GWU Art Therapy Clinic , Alexandria, VA
September 2024 - May 2025
- Held 30 sessions with one long-term client for a research practicum
- Completed all administrative and clinical documentation
- Presented a case-based research paper at GW CCAS Research Day
- Participated in weekly clinical supervision
Intern Art Therapist – Our Stomping Ground , Herndon, VA
September 2023 – July 2024
- Provided weekly individual art therapy to 10 clients with I/DD
- Facilitated weekly group art therapy and trauma-informed yoga
- Managed scheduling, documentation, and client communication
- Collaborated with staff and attended weekly supervision
Certifications
Provisional Registered Art Therapist
(ATR-P)
Emergency Medical Technician
(EMT)
Registered Yoga Teacher
(RYT-200)
Other Relevant Work
Fusion Academy
Workshop Facilitator
Claim My Voice
Workshop Facilitator
One Journey Festival
Creative Program Volunteer
Soorp Khatch Armenian Church
Fundraising Committee
International Work
Ambulance Station of Gyumri
Emergency Medical Technician
Agate Center for Disabled Women
Volunteer Yoga Instructor
World Vision International
Program Assistant
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Armenian
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Manager of Operations
Achikian Goldsmiths
03.2021 - Current
Private Yoga Instructor
Self-employed
03.2021 - Current
Front Desk Receptionist
Oak Hill Psychological Services LLC
03.2021 - 05.2022
Strategic Assistant
Armenian American Cultural Association
01.2018 - 01.2020
Master of Arts - Art Therapy
George Washington University
Bachelor of Science - Public Health
Shenandoah University
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