Arts for Optimal Health

The Arts for Optimal Health Program is hosted by Counseling & Art Therapy in the EVMS School of Health Professions. The new program’s mission is to bring art therapy and arts engagement services to the community for wellness, healing, and growth, supported through partnerships for education, research, and patient care.

First and Second-year students with Program Director, Dr. Mary Roberts, at an internship with Norfolk Street Choir Project during the fall of 2020.

Current Projects:

The AOHP provides education for community members about mental illness, special populations, and the benefits of art therapy. Arts engagement and art therapy advocacy are a primary focus for educating our community.

Counseling & Art Therapy partners with various groups to research the efficacy and benefits for wellness and healing of art therapy and arts engagement. Current proposals are in the development process and once approved by the IRB they will be posted.

Contact Us

Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Counseling & Art Therapy at Old Dominion University
Early Assurance Program
P.O. Box 1980
Norfolk, VA 23501

757.446.5895

VHS-CounselingandArtTherapy@odu.edu

Get Directions

A map with a blue pin indicating EVMS' main campus location in the Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk, VA.

Employment and Retention

Employment Rate

The average positive employment for the graduating classes of 2021, 2022, and 2023 rate was 100%.

Retention Rate

The average of the graduating classes of 2023, 2024, and 2025 is 88%, which exceeds accreditation standards.

This website reflects current program information, including admission criteria and curricula. Information is subject to change.