A long-time writer and artist, Barbara understands the transformative power of creative expression first-hand. She is passionate about exploring neuroscientific reasoning behind the human urge to create, and how that urge relates to the infinite potential for personal growth. Art talent or experience is not necessary to benefit from art therapy. 

Barbara holds a Master of Arts in Art Therapy from The George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Fine Arts from The University of Maryland Global Campus. In addition to working with individuals and families in clinical settings, she also enjoys serving as associate faculty for graduate art therapy programs at Notre Dame of Maryland University, and The George Washington University.

In her free time Barbara enjoys going on adventures with her man and kids, hiking and camping in Maryland’s plentiful State Parks, playing music with her friends, and practicing yoga. She likes to begin her days with a coffee on her front porch, rain or shine.

Publications: 

Van der Vossen, B. (2024). Redrawing value: Gaining new understanding of identity through art therapy. In J. King & C. Strang (Eds.) Art therapy and the neuroscience of trauma (pp. 243-245). Routledge. 

Van der Vossen, B. (2025). A series of moths. Cover illustration. From S. Powers Johnson, A History of Existing Life and Other Stories. Broken Tribe Press, 2025. Front cover. 

Presentations:

This Is My Brave 2018 – Baltimore, Maryland | Topic: Coping with grief through poetry