The Arts Therapy Team
Laura Thomae, MT-BC
Creative Arts & Complementary Therapies Program Director
"In a culture that dismisses and avoids the reality of
death, my experience as a music therapist has taught me that the
end of life is a sacred time, full of mystery and potential for
transformation. I feel privileged to be able to accompany patients
during their transition to what lies beyond. I am deeply moved each
time I witness the healing into death that is possible at end of
life. I am very proud of our talented team and the work that they
do."
Dana Rummery, ATR
Art Therapist
"As the art therapist at Keystone I have had the
opportunity to be with so many amazing people at the end of their
lives. Through the art process I have seen them share color, tears,
and laughter with their loved ones. From a woman dying of ALS who
realized she could still paint, to an elderly man giving his seven
children his art works and a poem expressing his pride and love for
them before he died - I have been honored to bear witness to their
creative spirits.
I chose to work at Keystone because its vision matches mine,
to attend to the whole person and their family with creativity and
compassion."
Esther Schultz, MA, BC-DMT
Dance/Movement Therapist
"With his eyes gently shut, his open hand circled his face
then lightly floated down resting on his chest in closed fist.
Softly opening his eyes he explained the significance of the
gestures. The open hand represented holism and the fist on his
chest symbolized his heart. Reflecting on this experience he
commented, 'I think to be whole is to have my heart and mind match.
I have come to this place from a very long journey.'
Dance/movement therapy invites individuals and families to
use movement, metaphor and imagery as an avenue for expression when
words are not enough. I am deeply honored to join this process,
witnessing the depth of how movement can unite body, mind and heart
to enhance quality of life, self-expression and
relaxation."
Keystone Hospice is a therapist training site and has hosted
interns from Arcadia, Temple, and Drexel Universities.
In coordination with the creative arts therapy program,
community musicians and artists often volunteer their talents to
benefit hospice patients.