A big part of our therapy is the balancing act of collaboration. “Directed Painting” is described in the curriculum as putting on a play. The MnemeTherapist is the director, the client is the actor. We are guiding them through the process, but they have artistic control. From picking out what painting they want to do, to color choices and choosing the title, our artist is calling the shots. At the end of the session, we want them to be able to say, “Look what I did.”

The Science behind the magic…

You’ll see a pattern with the client originals. Lots of flowers, landscapes and the occasional seascape. Of course, there’s a reason and it’s because movement is part of the magic of MnemeTherapy. Up, down, right, left, bounce, bounce, bounce, we’re helping the brain build a map. Movement of the hand acts as “superstimulation” for cognitive processes that enhance memory and problem solving.

From Noell Hammer

I really never know if the design is going to work. A beautiful painting doesn’t mean it will be a pleasing design. If MnemeTherapy is like a play, then creating the Encore Designs are like making a stir fry. Try a little bit of this, a dash of that. It either sings or goes flat. But the original is still in there waiting to be found.

Can you see it?