For over two decades, I’ve been exploring a question that fascinates me: How does our health shape our creative lives? And how can we use art, craft, and creativity to heal ourselves and our communities?
It’s not a simple answer … creativity can heal, but it can also harm; mental health can fuel art, but it can also block it.
Through two decades of research, books now cited in peer-reviewed journals, community programs engaging 10,000+ participants, and frameworks used by therapists worldwide, I’ve turned understanding these nuances into creating practical tools that help inform people’s choices about their creative lives.
I believe deeply in the power of self-expression as a means to authenticity in our relationships with ourselves, our loved ones, and the greater world. But I also recognize that mental health challenges, life circumstances, and socio-economic issues can all impact creative process and productivity.
I enjoy using my experience, education, and writing to help others explore this connection for themselves so they can live holistically well lives.
My Work Takes Many Forms
Books & Publications
I’ve authored multiple books exploring creative health, from The Artist’s Mind: The Creative Lives and Mental Health of Famous Artists (Schiffer, 2023) to Crochet Saved My Life, which has been cited in peer-reviewed research.
Research & Methodology
Through 100+ artist interviews, I’ve developed research frameworks including the six-part Creative Health Framework and Visual Interview methodology. These are tools designed to be accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive.
Community Programs & Projects
I co-founded trauma-informed arts programs in San Francisco that have engaged 10,000+ participants and been supported by $45,000+ in grants from organizations including the San Francisco Arts Commission and Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center.
Writing Portfolio
For two decades, I’ve written for therapy practices, wellness organizations, arts publications, and craft platforms, translating complex ideas into accessible, resonant language.
Right now, most of my current writing lives at Create Me Free, my Substack newsletter where I explore creative health through personal essays, artist interviews, and research-driven analysis. Over 3,000 subscribers join me there in examining how we can live creative, healthy, authentic lives.
Let’s Connect
Want to get in touch about writing projects, research collaboration, speaking engagements, workshop facilitation, or program partnerships?