Expressive arts support
A HAPPI team supported during the acute phase of the crisis, providing expressive arts support at Sonoma
Valley High School which was converted into an emergency shelter as well as at Sonoma Raceway. We
served approximately 40-50 evacuees. We were welcomed by the Principal Karen and her team of
volunteers at Sonoma Valley H.S. and by the staff of the Sonoma Raceway. We provided more simplified
stress relieving expressive arts therapy based activities, including guided breathing strategies, yoga,
puppet making, painting and coloring. We connected empathically with many evacuees, both children and
adults to provide validation, comfort, and warm connection. When possible, we shared the typical trauma
and stress responses happening in the Nervous System and brain as well to normalize symptoms and
inform on how to cope better, including relaxation recommendations.