About me

Vera Heller holds a Ph.D. in Expressive Therapies from Lesley University, MA, US. Prior to her doctorate, she completed Bachelor’s degrees in Social Work at Laval University (1983) and in Visual Arts  at Concordia University (1987), followed by a Master’s degree in Art Therapy (Concordia University, 1994).

Vera Heller is a private practice psychotherapist, art therapist, and counselor for the Employees Assistance Programs (EAP). She has worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families since 1993. In addition to her psychotherapy practice, she is a part time professor in the Art Therapy department at UQAT (University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue) and in the Visual Arts and Social Work departments at UQAM (University of Quebec in Montreal). She has also gained experience in the fields of psycho-social and mental health through her work with various social work agencies (CLSC). With her multidisciplinary expertise, she regularly designs and facilitates art therapy and creativity workshops for mental health professionals and institutions in Canada and abroad, and for the public in general.

Vera Heller was a FCAR fellow for three years in the course of her research project entitled “Exile, Identity and Creation”. She equally obtained grants from Canada and Quebec Councils of Art for her artistic projects. As a fine artist, she has participated in several individual and group exhibitions.

Vera Heller is a member of the following professional orders and associations: Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (Quebec Social Workers’ Order – OTSTCFQ), La société québécoise des psychothérapeutes professionnels (Quebec Professional Psychotherapist’s Society – QSQPP), l’Association des Art-Thérapeutes du Québec (Quebec Art Therapists’ Association – AATQ) et de l’Association nationale des naturothérapeutes (The National Naturotherapists’ Association). She is a certified Art Therapist through the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) and is currently awaiting receipt of her psychotherapist’s permit from the Quebec Order of  Psychologists.