Gwendolyn Short, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Gwendolyn Short, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT is CREATE’s Art Therapy Director and Director of our Studio Downstairs program. Before joining CREATE in 2015, Gwen served as Founder and CEO of Cradle of Art, a community art center in Capitol Heights, Maryland and worked for the Prince George’s County Health Department for more than 30 years specializing in addictions, mental health and rehabilitation services. A member of the American Art Therapy Association’s Board of Directors, Gwen also assisted with the creation of the film Wheels of Diversity: Pioneers of Color in Art Therapy. She is a recipient of AATA’s Clinician Award for Outstanding Contributions to Clinical work with Adults.
Sheila Kelleher Berman
Sheila Berman, a graduate of George Washington University’s Art Therapy masters program, has worked with seniors, children and teens. A mixed media and textile artist herself, Sheila is passionate about using the power of art for healing and resiliency, mood regulation, focus and self-esteem. She approaches art therapy from positive, strengths-based view and believes that anyone can use art can for help and growth.
Laura Goss, LGPAT/LGPC
Art Therapist Laura Goss, LGPAT/LGPC,has worked with children, teens and adults in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, day programs for adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges, both child and adolescent inpatient units, residential and outpatient programs. Laura received her Master of Art in Art Therapy from George Washington University. Laura is a printmaker who also enjoys painting, sculpture and mixed media.
Tamar Hendel, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Tamar Hendel, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT is a teacher, artist, art therapist and CREATE’s Founder. Art changed Tamar’s life when she was a young Jewish girl in hiding during World War II and her mother and teachers encouraged her to make art. Years later, this inspired her to found CREATE Arts Center in 1986 to bring the pleasure and healing power of the arts to others. Tamar retired as CREATE’s Executive Director in 2010 but continues to bring her vivid and expressive techniques to enhance cognitive, behavioral and emotional expression for art therapy clients of all ages. In 2010 Tamar was recognized with the Montgomery County Executive’s Lifetime Achievement in the Arts award.