HopeWest Kids Director Receives Highest-Level Art Therapy Credential

Congratulations to Joni Beckner, HopeWest Kids Director, for achieving the highest-level art therapy credential, as a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). To complete a ATR-BC, Beckner was required to pass a national examination and demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the theories and clinical skills used in art therapy.

With more than 10 years of practicing art therapy, Beckner has lead the HopeWest Kids program to great success, serving more than 600 kids each year. 

“Joni’s strive for growth and continued education makes her invaluable to HopeWest and in her role as a mental health expert in our community,” said Christy Whitney Borchard, President & CEO at HopeWest. “Her guidance and expertise sets the direction of the HopeWest Kids program and creates a model for the nation.”

Beckner said she is grateful for the support of HopeWest to help her achieve this certification and hopes her experience and knowledge will allow her to continue to advise and train staff in the use of art interventions and activities for the HopeWest Kids program.  

“On-going education and training is an integral part of our profession.  We strive to stay informed about recent research and best practices related to our field.” said Beckner. “The certification will enable us to provide an attractive placement for art therapy graduate students for internship.  It demonstrates our commitment to a high level of expertise in supporting children and teens who are dealing with serious illness and grief.”  

About HopeWest
HopeWest is a non-profit hospice, palliative care and grief support organization dedicated to profoundly change the way the community experiences serious illness, aging and grief – one family at a time. Founded in 1993 through a community-wide vision, HopeWest now serves more than 4,000 individuals each year across 7,000 square miles of western Colorado in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray and Rio Blanco Counties. For more information about HopeWest call 970-241-2212 or visit HopeWestCO.org