The Healing Power of Storytelling: An Author's Journey Through Creativity and Mental Health

The Healing Power of Storytelling: An Author's Journey Through Creativity and Mental Health

In this episode of Serenity Through Art: Art Therapy on the Go, I sit down with author Angel Rueda to explore the powerful connection between storytelling, creativity, and mental health. Together, we discuss the inspiration behind their book, the emotional journey of writing, and how creative expression can become a meaningful tool for reflection and healing. We also explore the differences between art therapy and art as therapy, and how writing, much like visual art, can help people process emotions, build resilience, and discover new perspectives. Whether you're a therapist, writer, artist, reader, or someone curious about the healing power of creativity, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into how stories can foster connection, self-awareness, and growth. In this episode, we discuss: * The inspiration behind the author's book * Creativity and the writing process * Mental health themes in storytelling * How writing can support emotional expression * Art therapy vs. art as therapy * Creative practices for reflection and healing * Advice for aspiring writers and creatives Please note: Any clinical examples shared are generalized or educational in nature and do not include identifiable client information. Thank you for listening to Serenity Through Art: Art Therapy on the Go. If you enjoyed this episode, consider following the podcast and sharing it with a friend or colleague who believes in the healing power of creativity. Connect with Our Guest Learn more about Angel Rueda explore their books, and connect with them online: 🌐 Website:Angel Rueda | Official Author Website [https://angelrueda.com/]📷 Instagram: @majesticangel_books Connect with Serenity Through Art🌐 Website: Serenity Through Art Podcast | Art Therapy on the Go | Serenity Through Art [https://www.serenity-through-art.com/podcast]📷 Instagram: @serenitythroughart2025

After Mother’s Day: Holding Space for the Mothers Who Are Tired

Mother’s Day may be over… but many mothers are still carrying the emotional, mental, and physical weight that continues long after the celebration ends. In this episode of Serenity Through Art Podcast: Art Therapy On the Go, we hold space for the mothers who are tired, overwhelmed, emotionally stretched, or simply trying to reconnect with themselves after constantly caring for everyone else. As a mom, wife, licensed creative arts therapist, and psychotherapist, I share personal reflections on the emotional realities of motherhood, the invisible mental load many mothers carry, and the importance of creating intentional moments for yourself too. In this episode, we explore: * Emotional exhaustion and the invisible labor of motherhood * Balancing caregiving, work, and personal identity * Why mothers often struggle to prioritize themselves * Gentle ways creativity can support emotional release and reconnection Plus, a reflective Studio Aftercare practice called “What I Give & What I Need” to help you reconnect with yourself through creativity and self-awareness. This episode is a reminder that mothers deserve care, softness, rest, and support too. Tune in on the go on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

From Holding Space to Holding Yourself

After a long day of holding space for others… do you ever feel like you’re still carrying it with you? In this episode of Serenity Through Art Podcast: Art Therapy On the Go, we explore what it means to come back to yourself after a full, emotionally demanding day especially as therapists, helping professionals, and creatives. I share personal reflections as a mom, wife, and licensed creative arts therapist navigating the transition from work to home, and why so many of us struggle to truly “turn off” at the end of the day. In this episode, we talk about: * Why it’s hard to disconnect after holding space for others * The importance of intentional transition time * Simple, realistic ways to reset your mind and body * How creativity can support emotional release and reconnection Plus, a Studio Aftercare practice to help you gently shift from what you’ve been carrying… to how you want to feel moving forward. ✨ This is your reminder: You don’t have to carry the whole day with you. Tune in and take a moment to reconnect on the go.

Feeling Creatively Blocked? Here’s How to Gently Find Your Way Back

Feeling creatively stuck? You’re not alone. In this episode of Serenity Through Art Podcast: Art Therapy On the Go, we explore what it really means to feel creatively blocked especially as therapists, helping professionals, and creatives who are constantly holding space for others. I share personal experiences as a licensed creative arts therapist, mom, and creative navigating moments of disconnection, burnout, and pressure to create. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why creative blocks happen (and why they’re more common than you think) * How emotional overload, burnout, and perfectionism impact creativity * Gentle, realistic ways to reconnect with your creative self even on busy days Plus, a Studio Aftercare practice to help you release pressure and return to creativity in a simple, supportive way. 🎨 This episode is your reminder: You’re not blocked you may just need space. ✨ Tune in and reconnect with your creativity on the go.

Art Therapy vs. Art as Therapy: Expressing Creativity on the Go

Ever wondered what makes art therapy different from art as therapy? In this episode, I share my personal experiences as a licensed creative arts therapist, a mom, a wife, and a psychotherapist exploring how both practices can support creativity, healing, and self-reflection. We break down: * How art is for everyone but used differently in each approach * What licensed art therapists can do vs. what you cannot do without training * How small, intentional creative moments can become powerful tools for self-care Plus, I guide you through a Studio Aftercare exercise you can do anywhere to reconnect with your own creativity. Perfect for therapists, helping professionals, and creatives looking to understand the power of art in their work and personal life. Tune in, create, and join the Empowered Serenities on the go!