As we celebrate nine incredible years of MIYA Creative Care, we reflect on the milestones that have shaped our journey and the meaningful impact we’ve made in collaboration with our incredible team, clients, and care partners. What began as a small practice has evolved into a thriving organization, enriching lives across Ontario through the creative arts therapies. Here are nine highlights from the past nine years that mark this special journey.
1. Expanding Creative Arts Services & Locations
Our journey began with providing music therapy to clients and care partners throughout the Greater Toronto Area, but as we grew, we recognized the need to offer diverse therapeutic approaches to better serve our clients. Over the two years, we’ve expanded to include art therapy and dance/movement therapy, ensuring that we can meet the unique needs of every individual we support by diversifying our creative care options. We have also expanded our service location and are now servicing care partners across Ontario with therapists facilitating sessions and programs in Toronto, London, Niagara, Kitchener-Waterloo, Hamilton and more!
2. Talent Shows
One of our most cherished initiatives has been organizing our signature 'Got Talent' shows, where residents and staff can showcase their creativity, confidence, and unique strengths and abilities. These events not only celebrate individuality but also foster a strong sense of community among residents, families, and caregivers! To learn more about our Got Talent Shows visit our article here.
3. Media Recognition During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the pandemic, our commitment to combating isolation among older adults was recognized on CBC, CTV, and other major outlets. These stories highlighted the vital role music therapy played in supporting mental health and emotional well-being during one of the most challenging times in recent history. We were proud to find creative and meaningful ways to continue to support those who needed care the most through safe in-person sessions, virtual sessions, and innovative recorded content.
4. Growing Our Leadership Team
Behind every impactful initiative is a dedicated team. Over the years, we’ve welcomed incredible leaders who share our passion for creative care. Their vision and expertise have been instrumental in driving our mission forward and supporting our growing team of therapists. We have welcomed Clinical Leads, Discipline Leads, an Office Assistance, Accounts Manager, and Clinical & Operations Manager to the MCC team! We are looking forward to continuing to grow and expand our leadership team to make a greater impact.
5. Professional Development
Over the past 9 years, we’ve prioritized growth and learning by hosting enriching professional development sessions for our team. These meetings have featured inspiring guest speakers who are leaders in their fields, sharing insights on topics like dementia care, cultural sensitivity, and innovative therapeutic techniques.
6. Annual Symposiums
Our Creative Arts Therapies in Dementia Care Symposium has become a cornerstone of our professional development initiatives. Each year, we bring together experts, researchers, and practitioners to share knowledge, spark innovation, and elevate the practice of creative arts therapies in dementia care. This past year, we also hosted an event for creative arts therapists to learn from one another, 'Creative Arts Therapies Crossover'. We had a wonderful turn out and were delighted to connect with the creative arts field at large.
7. Expanding Partnerships
Collaboration is at the heart of our work. Over the years, we’ve built strong, lasting partnerships with long-term care homes, retirement homes, hospices, and adult day programs across Ontario. These collaborations have allowed us to deliver impactful services and create meaningful change in the lives of aging adults and their families.
8. Supporting Individuals at Home
Recognizing the growing desire for individuals to age in place, we continue to provide services tailored to support aging adults in their own homes. Our home-based creative arts therapies provide comfort, connection, and care, ensuring that individuals can thrive in familiar surroundings.
9. Community Impact
At the heart of it all is the profound impact we’ve made on the lives of those we serve. From delivering thousands of creative arts therapy sessions to fostering moments of joy, connection, and healing, our team’s dedication has enriched lives and strengthened communities across the province. It is incredible to open up our team calendar and know that on any given day we have approximately 20 creative arts therapists out there dedicated to improving the quality of life of their clients.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible team, care partners, and clients who have made this journey possible. Your trust and support inspire us to continue growing, innovating, and enriching lives through the power of creative arts therapies.
Here’s to the next chapter of MIYA Creative Care—one filled with even more creativity, connection, and care.
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