Christine Nicklos

Chicago, Illinois

MA, LPC, ATR-BC

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Art Therapist living in Chicago. I was born and raised in Northern California and came to Chicago in 2008 to pursue graduate school. I graduated in 2011 from Adler University with a Master’s in Counseling, Psychology, and Art Therapy. Currently, I work at The Center for Self-Actualization, a mental health practice in Evergreen Park. I work with individuals ages 10 and up. Some of my clinical interests include anxiety, trauma, depression, self-harm, grief, and relationship issues.

Much of what I create is inspired by the natural world, human emotions and experiences and our connection to nature. Creating art is a mindful, spiritual practice that can provide healing and connection, to self, others and the environment.

I believe art making can be a bridge towards healing. Art Therapy offers people freedom and comfort to safely express themselves when talking is difficult or not enough. The process can encourage deeper self-exploration and awareness and help mend past and present wounds.

Past Artists on the Lam shows: Exquisite Corpse (2011) & LEXICON (2016)

10th Anniversary Message

Wishes for the next 10 years:

To continue making art and connect more with other artists AND… to open my own private practice that offers traditional psychotherapy, art therapy, and somatic/bodywork (and it must have an outdoor space and garden!)

I began creating these stones as a way to process personal experiences. It became a mindfulness practice which I then invited my clients to try.

My clients and I have explored different themes such as protection, strength, identity, boundaries, safety. Personally, they embody things such as protection, healing, and duality of character: strength and vulnerability. They also help me connect with energy/chakras.

Both the process and product can help strengthen one’s connection to their senses and consequently, their emotions.

The thread color can have meaning (that is up to the creator). Small stones are more portable so they can also serve as a type of amulet. Large stones can also serve as reminders of strength and protection.

Creating these stones encourages me to slow down, notice my feelings, and process emotions. The repetitive action of wrapping elicits a sense of calm. The process also allows me to further reflect on my needs and the needs of my clients.