A culturally responsive, trauma-informed program that uses expressive arts to strengthen SEL skills, support identity development, and build resilience among adolescents.
EASEL is for
EASEL supports middle and high school affected by trauma and stress. We partner with schools to create a nurturing environment that empowers youth to thrive.
Program Outcomes
Students cultivate emotional regulation and self-management, healthy coping and conflict resolution skills, self-expression and communication abilities, cultural identity development and empowerment, as well as resilience and future-oriented thinking.
Core Interventions
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Music & Beading
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Poetry & Spoken Word
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Drawing
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Painting
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Storytelling
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Self-Portraiture (Clay)
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Mask Making
Why Schools Choose EASEL
This program aligns with SEL initiatives and emphasizes whole-child support. It utilizes a trauma-informed, culturally affirming, and strengths approach to foster student engagement and promote healthier coping strategies. The implementation is flexible, catering to both schools and community programs, and facilitated by professionals with evidence-informed practices.
About the Creator
Dr. Livingston developed EASEL through doctoral scholarship and professional practice to address the psychological and educational impact of community violence and systemic stressors on adolescents through culturally responsive expressive arts and SEL strategies.