The superhero narrative exists in art therapy, and the workshop applies this narrative therapy to comics to access playfulness and possibility. Research shows that this superhero framework decreases anxiety and increases self-efficacy.
Art therapy emphasizes unconditional positive regard, strength-based orientations. Carol Mellberg and Sharene Rodamaker have introduced the superhero comic mini book tool into their private practices with clients. They created this tool because the comic panel opens new perspectives, encourages play, self-exploration, curiosity and color even with difficult topics. Clients, without any comics or drawing background, can access this tool and uncover patterns they want to change while increasing their sense of agency.
The workshop means to support individuals in identifying obstacles, drawing on their imagination and discovering their superhero while defining their superpowers. Mellberg and Rodamaker create a safe container, connecting and asking questions both individually and as a group to foster a sense of belonging and well-being. With very simple materials of paper, pencil and colored pens, visitors go deeper into their inner worlds, uncovering their authentic selves when they engage in comics.
Carol Mellberg
Carol Mellberg is a licensed therapist and a registered art therapist, and has been working on the front line of mental health for 30 years. She directed a school-based mental…
Maker
Carol Mellberg
Carol Mellberg
Carol Mellberg is a licensed therapist and a registered art therapist, and has been working on the front line of mental health for 30 years. She directed a school-based mental health programme covering four districts, coordinating, supervising and training a team of over 100 on-campus therapists. Carol designed and directed the CHAC/arts and BackTogether! Programme, a drawing-based healing arts programme delivered to 6,000 K-12 pupils as a mental health intervention to aid recovery from COVID-19.
Carol runs a private practice and works as a therapist at a California Community College, supporting students and teachers in using the creative process to reduce anxiety, develop resilience and self-efficacy. Carol runs art therapy workshops and training sessions for trainee therapists, adults and teenagers, using the ‘Superhero’ comic mini-book tool to help them navigate challenges, connect with their inner knowing and spark joy.
Sharene Rodamaker has over a decade of experience as a Licensed Marriage and FamilyTherapist and Supervisor. She cultivates a compassionate environment rich in creativity. Sharene’s therapeutic approach integrates talk therapy,…
Maker
Sharene Rodamaker
Sharene Rodamaker
Sharene Rodamaker has over a decade of experience as a Licensed Marriage and FamilyTherapist and Supervisor. She cultivates a compassionate environment rich in creativity. Sharene’s therapeutic approach integrates talk therapy, art therapy, and energy work, empowering clients to explore and transform limiting beliefs and emotions.
In a previous role as director of a 50-client adult residential facility, Sharene provided support to individuals facing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health challenges through art therapy and community connections. She views creativity as a vital pathway to healing, assisting clients in overcoming obstacles and connecting with their deeper selves.
Specializing in anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression, and family dynamics-especially within the LGBTQ community, Sharene is committed to facilitating profound healing and growth.
