Katie Kopcha Claywell
author & illustrator

Katie M Claywell, LPC

Author, illustrator, Licensed Professional Counselor, and art therapist

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I am inspired by the many people, animals, and places around me. I love creating whimsical illustrations that bring smiles to children, adults and families. Animals hold a dear place in my heart

 

In 2008, I graduated from University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT with a Bachelors in Fine Arts and a concentration in Illustration. In 2014, I graduated with a Masters of Art and Art Therapy at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, CT. In 2007, I spent a semester abroad in Florence, Italy and explored fresco painting while seeing many historical Renaissance paintings (And of course eating their wonderful Italian cuisines!). 

 

Throughout my years of employment, I have worked with various populations, including children, teens, young adults, older adults, patients with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and individuals with cognitive disorders. In addition, I worked at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, CT to help patients in the ending stages of their lives through art therapy. I love to use various art materials such as watercolors, clay and acrylic painting to accomplish different goals and inspire creativity. 

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I currently work at Apple Valley Behavioral Health, a private practice for mental health as a professional counselor and art therapist. I look forward to helping people heal from pain that they are feeling through psychotherapy and art therapy. 

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I will continue to write and illustrate books, in hopes to help children learn, laugh and grow!