- I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
- Youth Development Programs
- Outdoor Recreation
- Youth mentor, providing guidance and support to empower the next generation of leaders
- Watching Movies and TV Shows
- I like working with my hands and fixing things
- I enjoy sketching and drawing, which helps improve my creativity and attention to detail
- Strategy Games
- Camping
- Drawing and Painting
Pooneh Rafsha
Portland,OR
Summary
Dynamic art therapist with expertise in creative expression and trauma-informed care. Enhanced client outcomes through tailored therapeutic approaches and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Skilled in artistic techniques and verbal communication, fostering self-reflection and stress reduction. Achieved a 30% improvement in client coping strategies through innovative art therapy interventions.
Experienced with therapeutic art techniques that promote psychological healing and self-expression. Utilizes creative approaches to address emotional and mental health issues effectively. Strong understanding of client-centered therapy and the therapeutic impact of art in diverse settings.
Knowledgeable [Desired Position] with solid foundation in therapeutic practices, offering proven ability to foster emotional healing and personal growth. Successfully developed and led creative therapy sessions, emphasizing individual client needs and progress. Demonstrated profound empathy and effective communication skills in diverse clinical settings.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Art Therapist/ABA Therapist
PBS
10.2025 - Current
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to evaluate client needs and tailor therapeutic approaches.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions, promoting communication and interpersonal skills among participants.
- Developed and maintained an organized inventory of art materials for effective therapy sessions.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance treatment strategies and client outcomes.
- Assisted clients in developing coping strategies for stress management through creative expression activities.
Art Instructor
Portland Art Group
05.2025 - Current
- Designed engaging art lessons that fostered creativity and critical thinking among students.
- Implemented innovative classroom management techniques to enhance student participation and focus.
- Developed tailored art curriculum to meet the diverse needs of students across various skill levels.
- Organized community outreach programs to promote art education and engagement within local neighborhoods.
- Mentored student artists in developing their unique artistic voices and styles.
- Encouraged family involvement in art activities to strengthen community ties and support student learning.
Art Therapist
Self-employeed
03.2021 - Current
- Conducted thorough client assessments to identify individual therapeutic needs and goals.
- Created tailored art therapy interventions to support emotional expression and healing.
- Facilitated individual and group sessions focused on enhancing self-awareness and coping skills.
- Managed diverse art materials, ensuring a safe and effective therapeutic environment.
Art Therapist
Self-employeed
05.2004 - Current
- Collaborated with mental health professionals to integrate art therapy into comprehensive treatment plans.
- Organized community workshops to raise awareness about the benefits of art therapy.
- Monitored client progress through regular evaluations and adjusted treatment plans as necessary.
- Encouraged clients to explore various art mediums for self-exploration and personal growth.
ABA Behavior Therapist
IECP
03.2019 - 06.2020
- Developed individualized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique behavioral needs.
- Assessed client behavior through structured observations and standardized assessments.
- Monitored client progress regularly, adjusting interventions based on data analysis.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance treatment effectiveness and client outcomes.
- Trained parents on behavior modification techniques to support learning at home.
Education
Master of Arts - Fine Arts
Academy of Art University
San Francisco, CABachelor of Arts - English Literature
Ershad University
International School01-2006
Skills
- Artistic techniques
- Mental health awareness
- Professional boundaries
- Stress reduction
- Self-reflection
- Creative expression
- Therapeutic relationship-building
- Trauma-informed care
Certification
- Behavior Analysis Regulatory Board License
- Certified Behavior Analyst
Interests
Timeline
Art Therapist/ABA Therapist
PBS
10.2025 - Current
Art Instructor
Portland Art Group
05.2025 - Current
Art Therapist
Self-employeed
03.2021 - Current
ABA Behavior Therapist
IECP
03.2019 - 06.2020
Art Therapist
Self-employeed
05.2004 - Current
Master of Arts - Fine Arts
Academy of Art University
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
Ershad University