Arts in medicine (AIM) and Expressive Arts Programs are powerful vehicles to bring hope and renewal to one's mind, body and spirit. The arts have been incorporated into healing ceremonies from the earliest of times. For example, present day shamans (term to describe medicine men and women) and historical documentation of shamanic practices include the use of song, dance and musical instruments. Early cave motifs reflect the importance of the shaman for healing at both the individual and community levels.
Today's resurgence of the use of arts in healing practices is taking us in some regards full circle. Research over the past two decades solidly demonstrates the value of the healing arts - hospitals are paying attention. Approximately 40% of hospitals have some form of an arts in medicine program, a significant increase from just five years ago.
Expressive arts programs can be incorporated into an arts in medicine program, however they are also community-based. They may be one-time programs to bring ceremony and healing to a particular group. Expressive arts is contemplative - helping individuals be in touch with their inner or higher self for awareness, healing and guidance. For more general information about Arts in Medicine and Expressive Arts visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
N.T. Hope employs a co-creative process with the client during all phases, i.e. program development, implementation and evaluation. The perspective, goals and objectives of the client are interwoven into all aspects of the project. N.T. Hope believes that this co-creative process ensures program integrity, impact and sustainability.
N.T. Hope recognizes the importance of measuring the impact of its programs. An evaluation component is incorporated into the project design and cost whenever appropriate. This ranges from simple evaluation surveys to complex pre and post test studies.
N.T. Hope collaborates with a multitude of artists - the artist(s) are brought onto a project based on the scope and design of the project. Dr. Lalinde and Lela Lombardo, a talented multidisciplinary artist based in Miami, have worked together since 2009. Ms. Lombardo assists in the planning and implementation of many projects.
To learn more about N.T. Hope’s arts in medicine and expressive arts programs visit Our Projects. For general information about Arts in Medicine and Expressive Arts visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
To discuss what is possible for your organization, contact Dr. Lalinde at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Costs vary according to project scope and design. Please contact N.T. Hope to discuss costs and possible funding sources for the projects we create for you.
Hope gives us the courage to confront our circumstances and the capacity to surmount them. ... For all my patients, hope, true hope, has proved as important as any medication. ... There is an authentic biology of hope. ... Researchers are learning that a change in mind-set has the power to alter neurochemistry. Belief and expectation - the key elements of hope - can block pain by releasing the brain's endorphins and enkephalins, mimicking the effects of morphine. In some cases, hope can also have important effects on fundamental physiological processes like respiration, circulation, and motor function. ... It changes us profoundly in spirit and in body. ... I learned ... that every patient has the right to hope, despite long odds, and it was my role to help nurture that hope.
- Dr. Groopman, The Anatomy of Hope - The Random House, 2004