Healing Through Creativity

A Three-Day Expressive Art Therapy Workshop (Training of Trainers) was successfully conducted in Pokhara from 28 January to 1 February 2026 in collaboration with the Sovereign Art Foundation. As a long-standing partner of Right4Children, the foundation continues to support innovative, art-based initiatives that promote children’s rights, mental health, and empowerment.

The workshop followed both adult-centric and school-centric approaches. Under the PRAYASS Project, staff working with vulnerable groups in the Adult Entertainment Sector received intensive ToT training, later applying expressive art therapy techniques with beneficiaries at the SHE Centre and SHE Shelter. At the same time, focal teachers from 12 project schools were trained to integrate creative, child-friendly methods into their classrooms.

Across three days, participants explored expressive art therapy through interactive and hands-on activities such as drawing, storytelling, movement, and nature-based art. These sessions created safe, non-judgmental spaces where individuals could express emotions, build self-awareness, and strengthen communication. Teachers and staff learned to use simple, low-cost materials, making the approach accessible and sustainable in community and school settings.

Students actively engaged in creative exercises, including outdoor activities using natural materials and performances addressing social issues like early child marriage. These experiences highlighted the power of art as a tool for emotional expression, healing, and learning.

At the conclusion of the training, certificates were formally distributed to all participants in recognition of their active engagement and successful completion of the Training of Trainers program. This certification not only acknowledged their learning but also strengthened their capacity and confidence to independently facilitate expressive art therapy sessions in their respective schools and communities.

Overall, the training strengthened the capacity of teachers and staff to independently facilitate expressive art sessions, ensuring long-term impact. The overwhelmingly positive feedback reflects how such initiatives can foster well-being, creativity, and meaningful connections, contributing to holistic development in schools and communities.