Our Team
Meet the Valley Art Therapy Ltd. Team!
Valley Art Therapy Ltd. is a group practice that includes independent contractors and interns/practicum students working together to support our local communities. Our therapists are dedicated to providing excellent services and evidence-based approaches that facilitate change and develop wellness and growth.
Abby Bohun
Art Therapist In-Training – B.A., DWHEAT Candidate
Hi, I’m Abby! I have a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology from Brandon University. My passion to help others and hold space has led me into the field of art therapy. I currently work with students in Frontier School Division, providing art therapy at Chan Kagha Otina Dakota Wayaway Tipi School at Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, and Lakefront School at Crane River.
I am a lover of nature, and often go on hikes to explore the beauty of the wilderness and as an escape into my self-care. Art has always played a huge role in my life. It has provided a safe space for me and I know it will do the same for my clients. I enjoy getting to know people. I am excited about my new adventure exploring my opportunities as an art therapist.
Peggy Colon
Counsellor/Psychotherapist - B.Ed., M.C.
Professional Memberships: Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association
Specialized Training: Children/Youth, Play Therapy Level 1
I offer an integrative approach using play therapy, art and music therapy, conversation, mindfulness, and games. I use different approaches depending on the needs and interests of each individual client. Currently, I provide therapy services to children and youth at Waywayseecappo Jordan's Principle.
I provide a warm, non-judgemental, nurturing, safe space in which the client will feel comfortable and supported. I believe in taking the time to build a trusting relationship and building that connection with clients so that I can meet them where they’re at as I help them heal, grow, and play.
I am a mother, and a grandmother to three beautiful granddaughters. I love watching my children play hockey, and make spending time with my family a priority. I love to travel and make travelling part of my self-care plan. Self-care is very important to me as it allows me to be as healthy as I can be so that I can give my clients the best me.
Dana Corr
Canadian Certified Counsellor, Art Therapist, Director – B.Ed., M.Ed., DWHEAT
Professional Memberships: Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association, Canadian Art Therapy Association, EMDR Canada
Specialized Training: EMDR, Flash Technique, Somatic Experiencing Beginning III, Focusing, Sandplay, Safe and Sound Protocol, Trauma
I work with people across all age groups, currently focusing on young children and adults impacted by trauma. If you are finding that your current day functioning is being impacted by your past trauma, or you are wanting to move through difficult life events, then I may be a right fit for you in your therapeutic healing. In your work with me, you can expect to move at a pace that feels safe, without always having to put words to complicated or traumatic experiences. An integrated, holistic approach, based in nervous system survival responses (Polyvagal Theory) and the somatic experience of the body, is designed to support you in your healing and is the foundation of our work together. While I am a self-proclaimed non-artist, I know first-hand the crucial role that art can have in therapy. Art, expressive arts, and creativity are integrated in my work to empower clients in achieving deep and powerful healing.
I love supporting therapists in-training and those new to the field through offering practicum placements at Valley Art Therapy, acting as a Faculty Advisor with Brandon University, and providing consultation. This maybe stems from my 25+ years in education, as a teacher, school counsellor, and principal.
When I’m not at work, I can be found at home enjoying time with my family, savouring the views on our black Angus cattle ranch, and reading books!
Availability:
Birtle Office – Mondays, Thursdays 10:00 – 4:00
Russell Office – Fridays 10:00 – 4:00
Kelly Roe
Art Therapist, Expressive Arts Consultant – DWHEAT
Professional Memberships: Canadian Art Therapy Association, International Expressive Arts Therapy Association
As an art therapist, I use a person-centered approach to create a relaxed and safe environment to provide you with support, and encourage your healing and self-growth through the use of the creative arts. I work with all ages, having a special connection with teens and young adults. I specialize in supporting positive parent-child relationships, and working with clients to heal past and present trauma, using a holistic approach based on the principles of Polyvagal Theory and somatic (body-based) experiences. Through the use of art therapy, expressive arts modalities, Attachment Theory and talk therapy, I support my clients on their healing journeys with anxiety, depression, addictions, grief, loneliness, self-esteem, relationship issues, and Indigenous trauma.
On weeknights, besides being with my 2 teenage boys and wonderful husband, I can be found at the gym where I am the head coach of Prairie View Gymnastics.
Availability:
Birtle Office – Wednesdays 11:00 - 7:00
Kristen Thomas
Counsellor/Psychotherapist – B.A., MACP
Professional Memberships: Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association
I am passionate about general counselling and psychotherapy to support mental well-being. I love working with older teens and adults. I specialize in individual therapy with female clients, as well as pre-and post-partum support. My work is based in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
My goal is to provide supportive mental health services that focus on meeting you where you are and where you want to go. I strongly believe in your capacity to create meaningful change in your life. As we work together, you will be empowered and fully access the skills and strengths that you already have within you.
A little about me…I have dual citizenship, so I am both a Canadian and a New Zealander (or a Kiwi). I am a mom of two, and a lover of over 37 house plants and snuggling my animals.
Availability:
Birtle Office – Fridays 11:30 - 6:00
Melanie Wotton
Care Coordinator, B.Ed.
Hi! My name is Melanie and I am the Care Coordinator at Valley Art Therapy.
I have a Bachelor degree in Education from the University of Saskatchewan.
I worked as a teacher for 20 years with kids from grades K-8, and I have two children. Both my professional and personal experiences have made me familiar with the benefits of art therapy and counselling. My experiences have also taught me excellent organization and time management skills. I’m looking forward to helping you find the care that is best for you and your unique situation, and supporting you during your time at Valley Art Therapy.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking with my daughter, water skiing and spending time at the lake in the summer.