I’m Shira Aharony
Artist and Arts Therapist
Entrepreneur in the fields of social change, culture, and community,
supporting women on their path to creative professional independent practice in arts-based therapy
In continuous learning:
I hold a dual-major BA degree in Philosophy and Interdisciplinary Art from Tel Aviv University,
and an MA degree in Visual Art Therapy from Lesley University.
I love learning, finding new ways to express myself, and discovering how everything connects.
That’s why I’m constantly expanding my skill set. Here are a few examples:
- Advanced training in the VTS method (Visual Thinking Strategies) with the heads of the global organization in the U.S.—leading discussions using artworks, refining the method, and adapting it to the mental health therapeutic space.
- Integrative psychotherapy for adults as part of the “New Wave in Psychotherapy” program
- DBT therapy training at Ofek Institute. Trauma-focused psychotherapy studies through Natal Israeli Association of trauma.
- User Experience (UX) design courses via Coursera in collaboration with Google.
Alongside all of these, my growth as a practicing artist is very important to me. I make sure to visit studio spaces, connect closely with the work of artists I admire, and participate in masterclasses and hands-on workshops.
Professional Growth and Experience:
Over the years, I have worked as an art therapist in a wide range of therapeutic settings. I provided both individual and group therapy while developing and establishing specialized models tailored to the target populations:
- “Nitzanim” Children and Adolescence Clinic at Abarbanel Hospital
- “Beit Hanoar” Youth Boarding School, Tel Aviv
- “The Association for Children at Risk”
- Adult Day Treatment Department at Shalvata Mental Health Center
- Mental Health Department at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera
I enjoy exploring and engaging in interesting projects that combine art, therapy, and community. A great example is the “Mirrors” unit — a therapeutic unit within the Ashdod Museum of Art, which I had the privilege to manage for about two years. In this role, I led a team of therapists and instructors, initiated and implemented projects in collaboration with diverse community organizations. This unit continues to provide a unique and enriching professional resource in the field of art therapy.
Alongside my work in the public sector, I have always been engaged in entrepreneurship and independent practice:
- Established a private clinic: Art therapy for youth, young adults, and parents.
- “True Colors” – a group program supporting teens struggling in social situations. This program was written, adapted, and purchased by high schools as part of the Inclusion and Integration programs of the Israeli Ministry of Education.
- Worked with educational teams through professional development courses at Pisgah Centers.
- Lecturer in the program “Education and Teaching in Medical Settings” at the Kibbutzim College.
- Provided professional and business coaching for art therapists — both in one-on-one supervision and through the “Next Phase” groups, supporting in establishing independent, creative, and entrepreneurial businesses in therapy, art, and community fields.
In summer 2024, my family and I relocated to Newton, a small city near Boston, Massachusetts.
I continue to support professionals on their path to independence and work as a supervisor.
I am also an artist, Creative Sessions Facilitator and supporter of creators in my new community,
and I keep weaving new connections and exciting opportunities to integrate the language of art into various environments.
I’d love to get to know you, and to be part of your journey.
Threads of What I Offer
Make Yourself at Home
A cozy art space for women
to explore, play, and connect
Embroidered Moments
Personalized Embroidery Sessions and Custom Hand-Embroidered Creations
Supervision for Expressive Art Therapists
Growth-Oriented Supervision That Truly Sees You
Portfolio
My Art