Art Therapy with Active Duty Military

This presentation will examine how combat and life experiences informed me becoming an art therapist. 

We will look at some formative sculptures. We will discuss the limbic system and the implications of trauma. We will look at art therapy goals used for treating trauma. We will make art and discuss the experience, with the purpose of gaining insight. We will look at art made by American soldiers. Please note: We will have creative art interventions. No prior artistic experience is necessary to participate!

 Please bring any art supplies to write and or draw.

 Disclaimer: 

This presentation contains imagery depicting themes of trauma, which may evoke discomfort. Please be mindful of your emotional well-being while engaging with this material. These visuals serve to illuminate the profound impact of trauma and the healing journey facilitated by therapeutic art processes. Should you feel overwhelmed, prioritize self-care by seeking support and/or taking a break.

About the presenter:

Peter Buotte is an Art Therapist, retired Combat Veteran, and active Artist. Since December 2016, he is nationally board-certified. He works at a Traumatic Brain Injury clinic in central Texas in the United States. He provides a safe, therapeutic environment for Active-Duty service members. He has worked with over 650 patients. He helps them to creatively explore the experience of post-traumatic stress and mild traumatic brain injury. Peter completed 26 years in the US Army as a Lieutenant Colonel and he deployed to five combat zones.