Creative Arts Therapies
at Centers for Dialysis Care
What Is Dialysis?
Healthy kidneys work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When kidneys stop working it takes a combination of dialysis treatment, nutrition, and medications to help replace their function. The dialysis process removes waste and excess fluids from the body ― just like a kidney. Patients typically receive dialysis 3 times a week for anywhere from 3 to 6 hours at a time.
“Painting while on dialysis is great; it gives you something creative, something to focus you, something to look forward to, and lifts your spirits, too.”
― Hyman Bern, Shaker Heights
About Our Creative Arts Therapies Program
Art Therapy uses a variety of artistic materials as therapeutic tools, while Music Therapy involves listening to and creating music to promote a sense of calm and well-being. Our program focuses on the process of creating art and making music, not the finished product. As such, no skills or prior art or music experience are required to participate. This program is designed to foster personal growth as well as physical, emotional, and mental health.
“I often enjoy the process of painting. It enhances my feelings of worth. I can create a sense of my identity in my painting.”
― Cristal Macharia Flint, Euclid
Program Benefits:
- Decreases anxiety
- Helps manage pain and stress
- Supports healthy coping skills
- Promotes relaxation
- Develops and nurtures hidden talents
Beyond improved vitals, CDC’s Creative Arts Therapies program offers one additional crucial benefit: it boosts self-esteem.
“I enjoy painting; it helps me to relax and makes my treatment time fly by!”
― Melvinda Tarleton, Warrensville Heights