An EconoTimes perspective

Diana Coholic

Professor, School of Social Work., Laurentian University

Professor, School of Social Work., Laurentian University I obtained my Ph.D. at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia (2002), and my M.S.W. degree at the University of Toronto (1991). I am a practicing clinical social worker with 25 years of experience. At Laurentian University, I am a core member of the research centre ECHO - Evaluating Children's Health Outcomes, and the SSHRC Leader (3-year term). My research investigates the effectiveness of arts-based mindfulness group work for the improvement of resilience and self-concept particularly in marginalized children and youth. The 12-week arts-based mindfulness group program we have developed is called Holistic Arts-Based Program (HAP). Currently, we are studying HAP with youth aged 11-17 years old who are experiencing challenges with schooling. HAP helps youth improve their mood and self-esteem, and develop better coping skills and relationships through the enjoyable experience of creative group work. A session-by-session outline of HAP can be found in my recent book: Facilitating Mindfulness - A Guide for Human Service Professionals.