Susan Krisch, ATR-BC, LPC, CPRP, CCTS-F
About
I am an artist and art therapist based in Philadelphia, PA. I have worked within the community mental health field for more than a decade, providing group and individual counseling and art therapy. I also have facilitated workshops and events for a wide range of settings and audiences over the years.
I feel passionately about the importance of community care, connection, and healing. I believe that as humans, creativity connects us. Every individual has the potential to create, and every voice has a unique and valuable perspective to share. Art can be a reflection of the self, and it can be a powerful way to build understanding and compassion for self and others. It is through this that transformation, growth, and change happen.
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For those who say "I'm not an artist" or "I can't draw", I say that EVERYONE can be a creator or artist - creativity is a muscle that can be exercised and built. Often, you just need to practice and experiment and you will find your voice.
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As a “tragic optimist,” I believe that by acknowledging life's pain and challenges, we can create meaning and find purpose.The creative process can be a powerful way for us to process this pain and to create meaning from it. ​Throughout all of my work as an artist, as a therapist, as a community member and a human being, I carry this principle.
Education
Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Philadelphia, PA Masters in Counseling and Art Therapy
September 2011 - August 2016
Rutgers University, Camden, NJ
Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Fine Arts, Minor in Childhood Studies
September 2007 - May 2011
Licences and Certifications
Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC)
Licenced Professional Counselor (LPC)
Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practioner (CPRP)
Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist - Family (CCTS-F)
BECK Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist
Reiki Level II Certified
Work Experience
Wedge Recovery Centers - Program Coordinator
August 2019-May 2025
Supervised and developed programming for community integrated recovery center (CIRC) serving adults with serious mental health challenges. Ensured quality services utilizing the Psychiatric Rehabilitation model and maintained compliance with state and local regulations. Provided supervision to therapists, direct care staff, therapy interns and peer specialists.
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Wedge Recovery Centers - Mental Health Outpatient Therapist
September 2016-May 2025
Supported a caseload of adults, families and children in community outpatient mental health clinic utilizing person-centered and trauma informed art and verbal psychotherapy. Conducted clinical assessments, developed treatment plans, and developed art therapy group. ​
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Wedge Recovery Centers - Continuous Quality Improvement Manager
November 2016- November 2017
Managed quality assurance reporting for entire agency, conducted internal inspections, reviewed and implemented feedback from clients using quality improvement measures and consumer feedback, developed staff trainings and new organizational policies and procedures.
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Wedge Recovery Centers - Administrative Manager
November 2014-November 2016
Provided supervision, training and management to intake and administrative support staff. Worked with site management to ensure smooth daily operations, crisis intervention, and quality of care. Provided assistance with client insurance coverage, medical assistance applications and support with required documentation to prevent disruptions in care.
Workshops
Beardfest Workshop Leader
Transforming pain & discomfort through Art Therapy - 2025
The Art of Play: Using art-making to connect with kiddos and caregivers - 2024
Connecting to the Self and Others through Art Therapy - 2024
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​Swarthmore College - Project Artemesia Facilitator
Expressive Arts Healing Workshop for survivors of sexual assault and violence - March 2024, November 2024, April 2025
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Alliance Conference for Direct Service Professionals ​
​Art Therapy for Direct Service Professionals - November 2024
The Art of Healing: The Use of Art Therapy to Prevent Burnout and address Secondary Trauma - October 2023
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Painted Bride Art Center - Facilitator
SexEd Art Teach-in: Sex and Body Positive Art-Making -June 2024
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Ahimsa House Philadelphia - Workshop Organizer
Monthly Expressive Arts Open Studio - 2013-2017
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FringeArts - Workshop Leader
Community Art Dialogue - September 2014
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Rutgers University - Teaching Assistant
Art Workshop for Military Veterans - Spring 2010,Spring 2011
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Camden County Cultural and Heritage Commision - Instructor
Arts 4 Teens Festival - Summer 2009, Summer 2010
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Organizing
Take Back the Night Philly - Organizer
2014 to present
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YES (Your Empowered Sexuality) - Tabling
Consentfest May 2024, May 2025
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