We are IATA Interview: Daina Norusis

We are IATA Interview
Daina Norusis, LCSW, CADC, CRSS
Position on IATA Board: Outreach Chair

Tell me a little about what brought you to art therapy.
I studied psychology and theology in undergrad. After graduation, I traveled the world as a missionary, then got a degree for social work and am now a social worker. I am currently in school for art therapy.

Where are you currently working?
I am an independent contractor with betterhealth.com.

What brought you to IATA? What were you hoping to gain or experience by joining?
I was looking to connect with art therapists for school, but also needing to see where I can go after I graduate, like who are my people, like finding my niche. I wanted to find who the people are in the Illinois chapter of AATA.

What are your goals while being on the board?
My goals are to stretch myself and put myself in a learning position in a different way than in a classroom setting. From a networking standpoint, I like meeting new people - meeting as many people as I can on the board - which is a great opportunity. I hope to get to know as many art therapists as I can.

Are you working on any special projects for IATA?
I’m not working on any special projects, just trying to reach out  to new people - trying to think of different, out of the box people, people who would be easy to contact who would benefit from our contact. 

What could IATA provide the public?
IATA can provide a better understanding of what art therapy is, and a deeper understanding of creative beings who were born to create. IATA can be a vessel to spread that message to the public.

What does the future of IATA look like?
I have a lot of hope for the future of IATA. Just based on looking for art therapists to intern with, it seems that there are solid people [as art therapists]. IATA can target the students, we can become more of a wave and have a larger purpose with a new voice. Something bigger than just a meeting.



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