Leanne Morton
MA, LPC, ATR (she/her)
mama / artist / art therapist
My Story:
My story of becoming an Art Therapist begins as a young girl who suffered traumatic loss at the age of 9. I didn’t know it then, but art would become my therapy; the art process was the only way I knew how to navigate the complex emotions I felt at the time. Art-making remained my lifeline as I navigated additional traumatic events and difficult life transitions throughout my adolescence and adulthood. One of the most profound transitions for me was the initiation into motherhood, or matrescence. I think it’s important for you to know me as a whole person; I’m a dynamic human being with her own stories, strengths and struggles—just like you.
About 10 years ago, I was an artist mentor in a community art studio for parents of young children. I remember feeling inspired by the healing artwork and conversations that transpired for the parents in the room. Simply by providing a space and time for parents to make art alongside one another, without their children, magic happened! Those moments had an impact on me, and I knew that I would someday find my way back to working with parents.
When I became a mother for the first time (and the second time), it rocked me to my core. Although I had been a practicing Art Therapist for many years, I was not granted immunity from the profound challenges of becoming a modern mother. I felt lost, alone, deeply sad and wildly anxious, despite my skills and support network. This was not how motherhood had been portrayed, and it was shocking.
Since then, I have learned how to reconnect with my inner wisdom and become the artist of my life again. My healing journey and experiences as a mother continue to inform my work as an Art Therapist. I am honored to walk alongside you as you continue making marks on the masterpiece of your life.
Qualifications
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Naropa University, Boulder, CO
2014 - 2017
MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Transpersonal Art Therapy
Augustana College, Rock Island, IL
2006 - 2010
BA Elementary Education & Art
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
State of Colorado | LPC.0016303
Registered Art Therapist (ATR)
Art Therapy Credentials Board | ATR #19-152
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PSI Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy (2024)
PSI Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care (2023)
Birthing from Within: Birth Art (2023)
Jaguar Uncaged: The Anatomy of Feminine Spirituality (2022)
Art Key: Using Art to Unlock Trauma Narratives (2020)
Other Tidbits
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Virgo Sun: observant & grounded
Libra Rising: empathetic & sensitive
Leo Moon: warm & creative
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people: my husband & two daughters
book: Birthing from Within
art material: dried tea bags
color: purple
self-care: being in nature & dancing
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art-making: multi-media, jewelry & weaving
movement: strength training, hiking & yoga
food: eating pescatarian
