Utilizing an Art Therapy Studio Model: Affirming Sex Workers’ Identity

Abstract

When working with sex workers, mental health professionals should provide affirming and validating health care that does not further perpetuate victimization. This brief report introduces a community and open studio approach to art therapy as a potential means of increasing mental health accessibility for sex workers. Based on two case studies, participants who explored their identities about being sex workers described reduced isolation, heightened respect, and mutual support.

Keywords:

• Community-based
• art studio
• sex work
• art therapy

Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge Lisa Garlock, MS, LCPAT, ATR-BC, ATCS, The George Washington University Art Therapy capstone advisor, for her support and guidance. I am grateful to HIPS and the DC Sex Work Advocacy Coalition for allowing me to hold this space. I greatly appreciate the participants’ vulnerability and transparency about their identities as sex workers.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Haley Hasen

Haley Hasen, MA, ATR-P, LGPC, is the child and adolescent art therapist employed at Safe Shores—The DC Children’s Advocacy Center, Washington, DC. Correspondence concerning this report should be addressed to the author at [email protected]