Lauren Latella

I have been involved with The Art Therapy Project for over 6 years and been co-chair of YPLG for the past 4! This organization provides invaluable therapy to victims of trauma throughout the 5 boroughs and has hosted art therapy groups for many of the hospital settings that I have worked in. As a child psychologist, I have the unique experience of seeing how art therapy can create dramatic changes in the lives of children and adolescents struggling with mental health nearly every day. Many of my kids either color or draw while in session to help regulate their emotions when talking about uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking topics or use art as a way to detail to me their internal experiences. Having art as a tool for kids to communicate is one of the most powerful interventions that I have seen in my practice. Therefore, I am incredibly passionate about this organization's mission and the invaluable resource that it provides our NYC community. There are not many therapeutic environments that are free and affordable, high-quality therapy is one of the biggest barriers in accessing care.

Please support me in raising money and awareness for this incredible organization while motivating me while I continue my running training for my upcoming 10 mile race in September and overall wellbeing!