For the past 9 years, Sr. Kathleen has ministered full-time as an art therapist at Julie Billiart School near Cleveland, Ohio. Julie Billiart School is a K-8 Catholic elementary school founded in 1954 to serve the needs of children who have special learning difficulties. Some of the current needs include dyslexia, attention deficit / hyperactivity, Asperger's Syndrome and other forms of mild autism. As a Board-certified art therapist, Sr. Kathleen works with all of the children to express their feelings and expand their horizons through the power of art. Children are often encouraged to decide on the art materials or they are introduced to new media. What is most important is the process in the art, not the final product. Personal insights are gained through working with art materials. In addition to sessions for the children, Sr. Kathleen also offers a Parent Art Therapy session once a week so that interested parents can gather to explore some art for themselves and in the process gain insights that would be helpful in their own lives. They also form a supportive network with one another, often sharing similar situations and strategies.

In April 2006, the school opened a new wing, which houses a brand new art room, in addition to classroom spaces. Prior to this, the art room was situated in a windowless basement room next to the boiler room. The new room offers space and light, which are appreciated by all who use the space. Sr. Kathleen feels that her work embodies the SLW Mission by "freeing the oppressed and bringing new life" through art and self-exploration. She also feels that she is a "voice for the voiceless" helping children and adults find a voice to believe in their own goodness and worth.

In addition to her work as an art therapist, Sr. Kathleen is very involved in her parish, St. Noel. She is a member of the Choir, the Chamber Singers ensemble group, the Handbell Choir and plays guitar for the liturgies. She plans to travel with the parish choir on pilgrimage to Rome after Christmas 2006 where they will perform a concert in addition to travel. This will prove to be a memorable experience!

Sr. Kathleen grew up as the oldest of nine children in Palatine, IL. Most of her siblings still reside in the area. Prior to her current position, she was a teacher and principal in a couple of schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago.

When she is not at work or at church, she still works in the field of art. She has been commissioned to do several art pieces and frequently does art work for the community and others. She is an active member of AATA the American Art Therapy Association and plans to spend time in New Orleans in November 2006 at their annual conference. Art has always been a powerful force in Kathleen's life and she hopes that it helps to heal all who encounter it.