Healing Through Creation: Using Art to Process Trauma, Integrate Shadow, and Reclaim the Self with Devorah Brinckerhoff

On Sacred Harmony, we explore how creativity becomes a practical path for trauma processing and identity repair. Artist Devorah Brinckerhoff (RISD-trained; creator of Soul Portraits) shares how painting, collage, and mixed media help people move from overwhelm to integration—honoring painful histories without bypassing them. We discuss using personal artifacts (letters, photos, legal notices) inside artwork to “disassemble and reassemble” identity, why integration precedes transformation, and how everyday creativity (gardening, cooking, music, journaling) builds resilience. This conversation is direct, grounded, and designed for listeners searching for clear, humane tools—on and off the canvas.

 

About the guest  

Devorah Brinckerhoff is a professional artist and creator of Soul Portraits, a mixed-media process that weaves personal artifacts into commissioned works to support grief, trauma processing, celebration, and life transitions. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, she has guided individuals and groups for 30+ years in using art to reconnect with an authentic, integrated self.

Key takeaways  

• Creativity is innate; it’s not a talent test. Everyday creative states (writing, gardening, cooking, music) loosen cognitive grip and restore self-connection.

• Integration before transformation: acknowledge, allow, and accept experiences to reduce resistance; transformation follows naturally.

• Using personal artifacts (letters, photos, documents) inside artwork helps “disassemble” old roles and “reassemble” identity with agency.

• Art safely holds taboo or complex topics; nonverbal making can come before words, building capacity to speak later without retraumatization.

• Shadow and light are interdependent—like in-breath/out-breath. The goal isn’t to erase shadow but to bring light to it.

• Body cues are the greenlight: material surfaces when we’re ready; relief often replaces fear during breakthroughs.

• Grief needs space. Unprocessed losses (e.g., miscarriage, divorce, estrangement) can move when witnessed creatively.

• Resilience grows through self-connection; creative flow states cultivate hope and nervous system regulation.

• You can do this work yourself; outside support helps, but the core tools live within you.

• Practical start: pick one object from your past, collage it into a page or canvas, journal for 10 minutes about what shifts.

 

How to connect with Devora  h

• Website/Portfolio: https://www.soulportrait.art/

• Social: Search “Devorah Brinckerhoff ” on Facebook/Instagram

 

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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

 

 

Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it’s become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty—storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate—this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturin