Oona McClure, RCAT

Oona McClure, CiiAT's Academic and Clinical Supervisor, has a profound respect for artistic communication and is passionate about celebrating the transformative powers of the healing arts. She regards the art-making process as a vital space for inquiry, empowerment, imagination, comfort, and relational connection. Her extensive education and professional experience provide a comprehensive skill set that bridges the spheres of arts-based therapy and community arts programming.

As an art therapist and the founder of Hearten Art Therapy & Creative Wellness, Oona conducts engaging arts-based therapy sessions in private practice and collaborates with local community programs. She creates an environment where the unique stories of each client are honored, and where confidence, resiliency, and healing are fostered.

Throughout her career, Oona has worked extensively with children and young adults in both group and one-on-one settings. She has a wealth of experience in facilitating groups and employing arts-based therapy to tackle challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, attachment, neurodiversity, and complex mental health issues.

In her role at CiiAT, Oona's responsibilities are multifaceted. She serves as the site supervisor at the Art Wellness Studios and Clinic program, located at the Eric Martin Pavilion in the Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria, BC. She also provides clinical supervision to students and facilitates Art Psychotherapy Diploma courses.

Oona is a graduate of the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute and a Registered Canadian Art Therapist. She resides in Victoria, BC, on the unceded Coast Salish Territory of the lək̓wəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ nations. Oona is grateful to live, learn, play, make art, and raise her family on these beautiful lands.