Paintyourprogress

About Jocelyn

As someone who found relaxation and refuge in the art-making process, I began exploring ways to combine my interest in people and emotions with the therapeutic benefits of art. I engaged in my first Art Therapy role while in college at the University of South Carolina, where I earned by BA in Experimental Psychology and Counseling with honors and leadership distinction, and knew I had found my passion. I went on to study Art Therapy and Creativity Development at Pratt Institute where I earned a Master of Professional Studies (MPS). I gained experience while pursuing my MPS with a range of clients, from roles with geriatric populations to running groups for clients in substance use detoxification in a hospital setting. In 2017 I began my therapeutic career in forensic treatment of sexually violent predators working at a facility operating under the Florida Department of Children and Families, where I offered treatment groups, individual sessions, and art therapy groups for nearly 5 years. This role helped me to quickly gain experience in de-escalation, appropriate ethical boundaries, sensitive subject matter, and behavioral observation for identification of static psychopathic traits. In 2022 I moved into a new role at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where I began offering group therapy, along with expressive therapies, in both the inpatient setting as well as Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Through this role I’ve sharpened my diagnostic skills, such as identification and treatment of psychotic symptoms, and learned how to tailor therapy to populations outside of a forensic setting. I developed passions for treatment of bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. My current role also advanced my knowledge of referrals to appropriate levels of care for clients to succeed long-term. In 2025 I founded Paint Your Progress to offer continuing education to providers who have a passion for being creative in the therapeutic space, as well as contracting with a local practice to offer individual therapy services. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space and relationship that feels comfortable and safe, allowing for humor and fun along the way! Paint your progress!