Lick The Plate
Making the world a better place,
one small bite at a time
Integrative Culinary Art Therapy
What is Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy?
Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy is a form of therapy that uses cooking and other culinary activities to promote mental health and well-being. It combines elements of traditional therapy with the principles and concepts of human design and the creative, sensory, and social aspects of cooking and eating.
How does Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy work?
In Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy, I work with you to explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through cooking and other culinary activities. This can include everything from meal planning and grocery shopping to food preparation and cooking. I guide the you through the cooking process, helping you to identify and express your feelings and emotions as you work.
What are several misconceptions about Culinary Art Therapy?
1. Misconception: Culinary Art Therapy is just a fun activity without any real therapeutic value.
While Culinary Art Therapy can certainly be enjoyable, it is also a legitimate form of therapy that has been shown to be effective in helping people manage mental health issues and improve their overall wellbeing. In my work, I use evidence-based techniques to help clients explore their emotions and develop coping skills, all while enjoying the creative and sensory aspects of cooking and art-making.
​
2. Misconception: Culinary art therapy is only for people who are interested in cooking.
While an interest in cooking or art can certainly be helpful, it is not a requirement for participating in Culinary Art Therapy. In fact, many people who initially feel intimidated by cooking can find it to be a rewarding and empowering experience. I work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment that allows them to explore their creativity and emotions at their own pace.
​
3. Misconception: Culinary art therapy is only for people with specific mental health diagnoses.
While Culinary Art Therapy can be particularly helpful for people with certain mental health diagnoses, such as depression, anxiety, or eating disorders, it can also be beneficial for anyone looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing. I work with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals.
What is Human Design?
Human Design is a system that combines elements of astrology, the I Ching, the Kabbalah, and quantum physics to create a framework for understanding an your unique energetic blueprint. While there are many aspects of Human Design that could be relevant to Integrative Culinary Art Therapy, here are a few principles and concepts that may be particularly relevant:
​
1. Type: Human Design identifies five different "Types" based on how an individual's energy interacts with the world. Each Type has a unique strategy for making decisions and interacting with others. Understanding an individual's Type could be helpful in developing culinary art therapy interventions that are aligned with their natural strengths and tendencies.
​
2. Authority: Human Design identifies different "Authorities" that individuals can use to make decisions based on their unique energetic blueprint. Understanding an individual's Authority could be helpful in developing culinary art therapy activities that support their decision-making process.
​
3. Centers: Human Design identifies nine different "Centers" that represent different aspects of an individual's energetic blueprint. Each Center has a unique function and can be either defined or undefined in an individual's chart. Understanding an individual's defined Centers could be helpful in developing culinary art therapy activities that support their unique strengths and challenges.
​
4. Channels and Gates: Human Design identifies different "Channels" and "Gates" that represent specific energy patterns in an individual's chart. Understanding an individual's Channels and Gates could be helpful in developing culinary art therapy activities that support their unique expression and creativity.
​
By incorporating these principles and concepts into Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy practice, I can create a more personalized and effective approach that is aligned with your unique energetic blueprint.
Are there any evidence-based treatments that complement Human Design in therapy?
Yes, there are many evidence-based treatments that complement Human Design in therapy. Here are a few examples:
​
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a evidence-based form of talk therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is effective in treating a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
​
2. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR is a evidence-based program that combines mindfulness meditation, body awareness, and yoga to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and chronic pain.
​
3. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a evidence-based form of talk therapy that combines cognitive and behavioral approaches to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop effective coping skills.
​
4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT is a evidence-based form of talk therapy that focuses on helping individuals accept difficult thoughts and emotions, and develop strategies for living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
​
5. Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT): IPT is a evidence-based form of talk therapy that focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and resolving interpersonal conflicts. It is effective in treating depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
​
By combining Human Design with evidence-based treatments like these, we can create a holistic and effective approach that addresses both the unique needs and preferences of you, as well as the broader psychological and emotional factors that contribute to mental health concerns.
What can Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy be used to treat?
Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can be used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addiction. It can also be used as a tool for stress reduction, mindfulness, and self-care.
Who Would benefit from Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy?
Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can be used to address a wide range of mental health challenges, as well as to promote general well-being and self-care. Here are some common challenges that clients might work on in Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy:
​
1. Anxiety: If you struggle with anxiety you may find cooking to be a calming and grounding activity. Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to teach you mindfulness and relaxation techniques, as well as to develop new cooking skills that can help to build confidence and reduce stress.
​
2. Depression: If you struggle with depression and you find it difficult to find pleasure in daily activities, including cooking. Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to help you rediscover your passion for cooking, as well as to explore the connections between food, mood, and overall well-being.
​
3. Eating disorders: If you struggle with eating disorders and you have a complicated relationship with food and you find it difficult to engage in cooking or meal planning. Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to teach you healthy cooking and eating habits, as well as to promote self-care and self-compassion.
​
4. Substance abuse: If you struggle with substance abuse you may benefit from a structured and supportive environment that promotes healthy coping mechanisms. Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to promote alternative ways of coping with stress and anxiety, as well as to teach healthy cooking and eating habits.
​
5. Trauma: If you have experienced trauma and have difficulty connecting with your body and your senses, Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to help you reconnect with your senses, as well as to process and express your emotions through cooking and food-related activities.
​
6. Relationship issues: If you struggle with relationship issues and find it difficult to communicate effectively or to build trust with others, Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can be used to promote collaboration and teamwork, as well as to foster positive communication skills and a sense of community.
​
Overall, Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can be used to address a wide range of mental health challenges, as well as to promote self-care, personal growth, and overall well-being. By tailoring therapy to the specific needs and goals of you personally, I can help you to develop new skills and strategies for improving your mental health and quality of life.
How does Culinary Art Therapy help people without specific mental health diagnoses?
While Culinary Art Therapy can be particularly helpful for people with specific mental health diagnoses, it can also be beneficial for anyone looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
​
1. Stress reduction: Cooking and art-making can be relaxing and meditative activities that help reduce stress and anxiety. Culinary Art Therapy can provide a creative outlet and a way to focus on the present moment, which can be particularly helpful if you experience stress in your daily life.
​
2. Improved self-esteem: Creating something from scratch can be a rewarding experience that helps boost self-esteem and confidence. Culinary Art Therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your creativity and develop a sense of accomplishment.
​
3. Improved relationship skills: Cooking and art-making can be collaborative activities that require communication and cooperation. Culinary Art Therapy can provide an opportunity for you to practice relationship skills and develop a sense of connection with others.
​
4. Increased mindfulness: Cooking and art-making can be sensory experiences that help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. Culinary Art Therapy can provide a way for you to practice mindfulness and develop a deeper understanding of your inner experiences.
​
5. Improved nutrition: Cooking can be a way to develop a healthier relationship with food and learn how to prepare nutritious meals. Culinary Art Therapy can provide a way for you to explore your relationship with food and develop healthy eating habits.
​
These are just a few examples of how Culinary Art Therapy can be beneficial for people without specific mental health diagnoses. By providing a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your creativity and emotions, Culinary Art Therapy can help improve overall mental health and wellbeing.
What are some specific techniques used?
Some specific techniques used in Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy may include:
​
1. Mindful eating: Focusing on the sensory experience of eating, including the taste, texture, and aroma of food, and using this awareness to promote mindfulness and present-moment awareness.
​
2. Recipe modification: Adapting recipes to meet specific dietary needs or preferences, and using this process as a metaphor for making positive changes in other areas of life.
​
3. Collaborative cooking: Working with others to plan, prepare, and share meals, and using this process to promote social connection and collaboration.
​
4. Narrative therapy: Using cooking and food-related experiences to explore and reframe personal narratives and life stories.
The First Session
The first session in Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy is an opportunity for you and I to get to know each other and to establish a therapeutic relationship. This is an example of what a first session in Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy might look like:
​
1. Introduction: I will introduce myself and explains what Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy is and how it works. I will also explain any ground rules or expectations for the therapy session.
​
2. Assessment: I will ask you to fill out a brief questionnaire or to answer some questions about your mental health history, current symptoms, and goals for therapy. This information can be used to guide the therapeutic process and to develop a plan.
​
3. Discussion of dietary restrictions: I will ask the you about any dietary restrictions or preferences that you have, as this can impact the types of recipes and ingredients that are used in therapy sessions.
​
4. Exploration of your relationship with food and cooking: I will ask you to talk about your relationship with food and cooking, and to describe any positive or negative experiences that you have had in the kitchen. This can help me to understand your relationship with food and to identify any potential areas of focus for therapy.
​
5. Goal-setting: You and I will work together to identify specific goals for therapy, such as improving cooking skills, developing healthy eating habits, or reducing stress and anxiety. These goals will guide the therapeutic process and help you to track your progress over time.
​
6. Culinary activity: Depending on the goals of the therapy session, you and I may engage in a culinary activity together, such as preparing a meal or trying a new recipe. This can be a way to build rapport and to begin exploring your relationship with food and cooking.
​
Overall, the first session in Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy is focused on building a therapeutic relationship, gathering information about you, and establishing goals for therapy. By creating a safe and supportive environment and working collaboratively with you, I can help you to develop new skills and strategies for improving your mental health and well-being.
​
​
Do you have an example of a schedule that incorporates cooking metaphors and activities .
Session 1: Introduction to Cooking as a Metaphor
- Introduce the concept of using cooking as a metaphor in therapy
- Discuss the benefits of using cooking as a way to explore emotions, thoughts, and behaviors
- Explore your existing relationship with cooking and food
Session 2: Recipe Development
- Discuss the parallels between recipe development and problem-solving
- Guide you in developing a recipe for a dish that represents a current challenge you are facing
- Discuss the process of recipe testing and how it relates to trying out new behaviors and coping strategies
Session 3: Mindful Cooking
- Discuss the concept of mindfulness and how it relates to cooking
- Guide you in preparing a meal mindfully, focusing on the sensory experience of cooking
- Discuss the parallels between mindful cooking and mindfulness in everyday life
Session 4: Meal Planning
- Discuss the importance of meal planning for physical and emotional well-being
- Guide you in creating a meal plan for the week, incorporating foods that support your emotional and physical health goals
- Discuss the process of meal planning as a way to set intentions for self-care and self-nourishment
Session 5: Emotions and Cooking
- Discuss the connection between emotions and food
- Guide you in creating a dish that represents a particular emotion you are experiencing
- Discuss the role of emotions in shaping your relationship with food and cooking
Session 6: Culinary Therapy Integration
- Discuss how cooking as a metaphor can be integrated into iyour therapy sessions
- Guide you in reflecting on your experience with cooking as a metaphor and how it has impacted your emotional and behavioral patterns
- Discuss strategies for integrating cooking as a metaphor into ongoing therapy sessions
​
This is just an example curriculum, and the specific activities and topics covered, were tailored to the needs and goals of an individual client. The key is to use cooking as a metaphor to help you explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a unique and engaging way.
What about Dietary restrictions?
In the context of Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy, it is important for me to be aware of any dietary restrictions that you may have, as these restrictions can impact the types of recipes and ingredients that are used in therapy sessions. Some common dietary restrictions I need to be aware of include:
​
1. Gluten-free: You have celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity and need to avoid gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye.
​
2. Dairy-free: If you have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy and need to avoid dairy products.
​
3. Vegetarian: If you follow a vegetarian diet and avoid meat but may still consume animal products such as eggs and dairy.
​
4. Vegan: If you follow a vegan diet and avoid all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs.
​
5. Kosher or Halal: If you follow kosher or halal dietary laws and have specific restrictions on the types of food and preparation methods that are allowed.
​
It is important for me to be respectful and accommodating of any dietary restrictions that you may have. This may involve modifying recipes or meal plans to meet these needs, or working with the you to develop alternative recipes or ingredients that are suitable for your dietary restrictions. By being mindful of these restrictions, I can ensure that you are able to fully participate in and benefit from Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy sessions.
How do you measure the success of your therapy sessions?
Success in therapy can be measured in a variety of ways, depending on your goals and needs. Some common measures of success include:
​
Reduction in symptoms: If you are seeking therapy to manage mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, a reduction in symptoms can be a key measure of success. This could involve a decrease in the frequency or intensity of symptoms, such as panic attacks or feelings of sadness.
​
Improved coping skills: Therapy can help you develop new coping skills that allow you to better manage stress, anxiety, or other challenges you may be facing. Success in therapy could involve you feeling more confident in your ability to handle difficult situations.
​
Increased self-awareness: Therapy can help you gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Success in therapy could involve you feeling more self-aware and able to recognize patterns or triggers that may have previously been unconscious.
​
Improved relationships: Therapy can help you improve your communication skills and develop more positive relationships with others. Success in therapy could involve you feeling more connected to others and better able to navigate social situations.
​
Achievement of specific goals: Perhaps you are coming to therapy with specific goals in mind, such as improving your self-esteem or reducing your stress levels. Success in therapy could involve you achieving these goals and feeling a sense of accomplishment.
What if I do not want to cook but do want to have therapy?
If you are interested in receiving therapy through Lick the Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy but do not enjoy cooking, I can work with you to find alternative creative activities that are still sensory and therapeutic.
For example, we could explore other forms of art-making such as painting, drawing, or sculpture, or we could incorporate other sensory experiences such as aromatherapy or music therapy.
​
At Lick the Plate Culinary Art Therapy, my goal is to provide a personalized and flexible therapy experience that meets your unique needs and preferences. I understand that not everyone enjoys cooking, and I am committed to finding creative solutions that promote healing and well-being.
​
It's important to note that while cooking is a central part of our therapy sessions, it's not the only focus. I am trained to work with you on a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma, and I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help you achieve your goals.
Whether you enjoy cooking or not, we can work together to create a therapy plan that is tailored to your individual needs and promotes healing through creativity and self-expression.
Where does Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy take place?
Lick the Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy offers flexible and personalized therapy sessions that meet your individual needs.
You can choose to have therapy in your own kitchen or at the Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy Kitchen.
I will work closely with you to create a customized therapy plan and menu that meets your unique preferences and dietary requirements.
​
I provide guidance on equipment and supplies needed to ensure a successful therapy session.
​
Whether you choose to have therapy in your own kitchen, or at the Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy kitchen, I will guide you through a culinary art therapy session where I will help you explore your emotions, develop coping skills, and build self-awareness while I help you prepare and cook a delicious meal. This sensory experience of cooking and art-making combined with therapy can help improve your mental health and well-being.
​
At Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy, I understand the importance of personalized service and attention to detail. I will work closely with you to create a therapy plan that meets your unique needs and preferences. I am committed to providing exceptional service and promoting your overall well-being.
Lick the Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy Sliding Scale Therapy: Accessible and Affordable Mental Health Support
Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy is not covered by health insurance. However, I strive to provide affordable and accessible services and are happy to work with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget.
At Lick the Plate, I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health support, regardless of their financial situation. That's why I offer a sliding scale pricing model for my therapy service, based on income.
​
Under my sliding scale model, you pay a fee for therapy that is based on your income level. Those with higher incomes pay more, while those with lower incomes pay less. The goal is to make therapy more accessible and affordable for everyone, regardless of your financial situation.
​
I understand that affordability is often a barrier to accessing therapy, and I believe that this shouldn't be the case. My sliding scale model helps to ensure that therapy services are available to those who need them most, regardless of their ability to pay.
​
In addition to making therapy more accessible, my sliding scale model also helps to promote a more diverse and inclusive client base. By making therapy more affordable to people from all income levels, I am able to serve a wider range of clients with different backgrounds and life experiences.
​
I personally know that financial difficulties can be stressful and challenging, and I want to make the therapy process as comfortable and supportive as possible. My sliding scale model encourages you to be honest and transparent about your financial situation, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for all of my clients.
​
It's important to me that I am able to earn a living while still providing an affordable therapy service. I believe that this balance is achievable, and that my sliding scale model is a win-win for both me and you as my client.
​
At Lick the Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy, I am committed to promoting greater well-being and mental health for individuals and society as a whole. I believe that my sliding scale therapy service is an important step towards achieving this goal.
What evidence is there to support the effectiveness of both cooking and art therapy in improving mental health outcomes
Studies have explored the effectiveness of cooking therapy and art therapy separately, and there is evidence to suggest that the combination of both approaches are beneficial.
​
1. Cooking therapy: A systematic review published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing in 2019 found that cooking therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in a range of populations, including individuals with mental illness, eating disorders, and dementia.
​
2. Art therapy: A meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association in 2016 found that art therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improving self-esteem, coping skills, and quality of life in a range of populations, including individuals with mental illness, trauma, and chronic illness.
​
3. Culinary arts therapy: A study published in the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services in 2020 explored the use of culinary arts therapy in a group of individuals with mental health conditions. The study found that the intervention was effective in improving participants' mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and social functioning.
​
4. Combination of cooking and art therapy: A study published in the Journal of Creativity in Mental Health in 2019 explored the effectiveness of a combined cooking and art therapy intervention in a group of individuals with mental illness. The study found that the intervention was effective in improving participants' mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and social functioning.
​
Overall, while there is limited research specifically focused on culinary art therapy, these studies suggest that the combination of cooking and art therapy techniques are effective in improving mental health outcomes.
Why should you choose Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy ?
Choosing Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy as a form of therapy can offer a number of benefits. Here are some reasons why you might consider Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy:
​
1. Unique and engaging approach: Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy provides a unique and engaging approach to therapy that involves hands-on activities and creative expression. This can make therapy more enjoyable and interesting, and can help you to stay engaged and motivated throughout the process.
​
2. Promotes mindfulness and self-awareness: Cooking and eating can be powerful tools for promoting mindfulness and self-awareness. Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can help you to develop a greater awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to use this awareness to promote positive change.
​
3. Promotes social connection: Cooking and eating are often social activities, and can be a great way to connect with others. Lick The Plate Culinary Art Therapy can help you to build social connections and strengthen your relationships with others.
​
4. Promotes healthy habits: Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can be a way to promote healthy eating habits and a positive relationship with food. By learning to prepare and enjoy healthy meals, you can improve your physical health and well-being.
​
5. Versatile: Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy can be used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addiction. It can also be used as a tool for stress reduction, mindfulness, and self-care.
​
Ultimately, whether or not you choose Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you are looking for a unique and engaging form of therapy that promotes mindfulness, social connection, healthy habits, and self-awareness, Lick The Plate Integrative Culinary Art Therapy may be worth considering.
