Therapeutic Expressive Arts (TEA) Intern and Volunteer

About the role

Youth for Tomorrow is seeking dedicated Therapeutic Expressive Arts (TEA) and Therapeutic Worship Arts (TWA) interns and volunteers to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in need while developing your skills in the expressive arts field.

Our Approach

Therapeutic Expressive Arts (TEA) and Therapeutic Worship Arts (TWA) interns and volunteers play a critical role in the therapeutic process of our Youth for Tomorrow residents, harnessing the power of expressive arts to help individuals express and process their emotions. One of their primary responsibilities is to assist Registered Expressive Arts Therapists (REAT) in planning and conducting creative interventions through expressive therapeutic sessions.

The principle of hope and renewal is vital in therapy, and this is beautifully illustrated in Isaiah 40:31, which states, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This verse offers a powerful message of resilience and renewal. In the therapeutic context, instilling hope can empower clients to overcome their challenges and envision a positive future. By integrating these biblical principles, therapists can provide a comprehensive and deeply meaningful path to healing.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare materials for expressive arts sessions, such as visual arts, music, dance, drama, and play therapies, and ensure that the therapeutic environment is supportive and conducive to creativity.
• Facilitate individual and/or group expressive arts sessions and therapeutic interventions, guiding residents through various expressive activities while providing encouragement and support.
• Observe and document clients’ therapeutic progress; maintain detailed records of each session, noting any significant emotional or behavioral changes, and help evaluate the effectiveness of different therapeutic techniques.
• Contribute observations and insights to students’ education progress reports and the broader therapeutic team.
• Pursue professional development by seeking regular supervision from the REAT supervisor, participating in training sessions, and staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in expressive therapies.
• Reflect on experiences, seek feedback, and continuously improve skills and understanding of how creative arts foster emotional healing and personal growth.

Qualifications

• All duties and responsibilities will support meeting the structured program of care outlined in DBHDS and DSS state standards (DBHDS: 12VAC 35-46; DSS: 22 VAC 40-151; 22 VAC 40-131) and the Office of Human Rights according to standard 22 VAC 40-151.
• Must attend all trainings mandated by YFT; must receive and pass Handle with Care and required training before volunteer may be alone with a resident.
• Ability to communicate with children/adolescents openly and nonjudgmentally.
• Ability to establish relationships based on equal responsibility and respect.
• Practical problem-solving skills and the ability to suggest options and alternatives, as well as display a high level of sensitivity to persons of different educational, economic, cultural, or racial backgrounds.
• Must pass FBI/CPS background checks, have a current negative TB screening, and be at least 21 years of age.
• Criminal background checks: FBI, Child Abuse and Neglect, and HHS suitability.
• Must be able to maintain compliance with requirements of YFT, licensing agencies, accreditations, and government affiliations.