JFTN Creative Arts Therapy

The Joan Fenichel Therapeutic Nursery (JFTN) prepares children for academic and social success. That goal is at the heart of our Creative Arts Therapy program. Our art and dance/movement therapists work with teachers and clinicians to tailor art experiences to each child's needs. These projects encourage healthy social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. 

Like speech-language therapy, art therapy enhances communication skills. However, creative art therapy also adds a strong socialization benefit. Speech-language therapy, for example, is typically a one-on-one session. But creative arts therapy is often about social engagement, cooperation, positive self-expression and understanding physical boundaries. Creative arts therapy brings an important balance to the school day.

Parents get to participate in creative arts therapy activities as well. At special events, like Multicultural Day and Sibling Day, families collaborate on art projects. These are opportunities for parents and children to discover new ways to communicate with each other.

The Creative Arts Therapy department is also an important bridge to the community. Most recently, our partners at TD Bank have presented projects by JFTN students. We also partner with top tier schools like Pratt Institute, NYU and The School of Visual Arts to develop special projects. Interns from these schools work with children under the supervision of our full time therapists. Through these partnerships, JFTN helps ensure future generations will receive top quality therapeutic care in New York City.

Have a question about Creative Arts Therapy?
Email Creative Arts Therapy Director Kimberly Bush.