Welcome to MAP!
I am Flavia. And that is my family!
As a Certified Art Therapy Practitioner, Trauma-Informed Coach, and Certified Transformational Parent Coach, I specialize in Youth's anxiety and depression, and trauma-based behaviors.
I provide an unique and holistic approach that combines positive psychology, CBT and DBT concepts, non-violent communication and trauma release tools with a variety of resources including art-based interventions and processes.
My method is designed to support families, children, teens, and young adults in developing healthy coping strategies, fostering emotional regulation, distress tolerance, growth, connection and cultivating a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Whether it's through individual or group sessions, my approach is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each client, helping them find a greater sense of meaning and purpose in their lives.
My Story
I was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and went to Law School - all because of my childhood experiences after my parents divorced - talk about trauma-informed decision huh?
I grew up in a large and very loving family. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. A big house close by the beach, private schools, abundance of nature and weekly trips to different islands around Rio de Janeiro in our family sailing boat.
When I was 12 years old my parents divorced and we moved with my mom and sister to a (very) small apartment in the city. It was an abrupt move into my teenage years!
Life was different, and I had to grow up fast!
Fast forward a decade and I was graduating Law School. Working full-time in a Law Firm and finishing College. My thesis was on International Adoption and my first job as an Attorney was in a Family Law Firm. I knew I wanted to help families, care for children since the very beginning of my career. However, the reality of the Family Law practice was too much for me at that time.
When I turned 30 years old, working with Civil Litigation in a renowned Law Firm, I met my husband and decided to move to North Carolina in 2006 with him. Many discoveries, learnings and adaptations. I even looked into getting my Master's in Counselling but wasn't able to start the program at that time.
In 2010 my daughter was born and a desire to work with children and families came back to my heart. Since art has already been a childhood connection and very healing for me, I opened Little Blank Canvas, an Art Studio for Children and Teens.
Since opening Little Blank Canvas in 2013, I have noticed an increased need for individualized support for children, teens and families. As a Child Educator and the head of Little Blank Canvas for over 10 years, I have seen firsthand the power of creative expression and mindfulness practices in helping individuals navigate life's challenges and cultivate greater well-being.
I, too, went through a tough time dealing with unresolved trauma, stress and depression. It was hard finding support and help. It was challenging finding professionals that could guide me. It was difficult, I felt lost. And my personal experience was affecting my family! Eventually I was able to connect with a wise and loving mental health professional in Brazil and it was the turning point for my healing process.
As I was healing, my family started to heal too. And I knew in my heart my purpose in life is to "Pay it forward" and make a positive impact to as many families as I could reach.
So I started studying, getting through Certifications, workshops, trainings in a variety of modalities, and applying these tools and resources to my own family. My relationship with my daughter was transforming to a more connected and respectful place, and my interaction with others were changing to a even more loving and compassionate state.
The need to open a separate place for MAP - Mindful Art Practice became even stronger with the increase number of families looking for more than just art classes in a group setting - aiming the benefits of the therapeutic effects of my work. My own journey to a healthier and more balanced life, including my personal and family challenges shaped me into moving to a new purpose in my journey to healing and connecting.
By opening Mindful Art Practices, I am able to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their inner selves, express their emotions, and develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-compassion in a private setting.
Combining my decade experience working with children and teens with my own life learning experiences, tools and skills as a Certified Art Therapist Practitioner, alongside with my extensive trainings as a Trauma-Informed Coach, Child's Anxiety and Depression, and as a Certified Transformational Parenting Coach/Mentor (student at The Jai Institute for Parenting), it is my hope, mission and purpose that my services will help children, teens and families heal, thrive, and ultimately contribute to a happier, more compassionate and connected world.
Let's MAP. I can help!