Dre Erwin Photography™

Therapeutic photography is the self-guided practice of using a camera and the act of taking photos to promote healing, self-discovery, and mental well-being. Unlike traditional therapy, it doesn't require a clinician; instead, it uses the "lens" as a tool to block out the "static" of trauma and focus on the present moment. At the Pinehouse Photography Club, we use this evidence-based approach to help youth and adults in Northern Saskatchewan externalize their emotions, build resilience, and find a "visual anchor" in times of stress. Read more about the science of resilience here

Therapeutic photography improves mental well-being by acting as a powerful "visual prescription" for self-expression and emotional regulation. As a practicing Primary Care Nurse (RN-AAP) and veteran, I’ve seen how focusing through a lens helps individuals—especially youth in Northern Saskatchewan—block out the "noise" of trauma and stress. By capturing and reflecting on images, individuals can process complex emotions, foster mindfulness, and achieve a sense of creative accomplishment. This evidence-based approach to therapeutic art helps build resilience, reduces burnout, and creates a safe space for healing without needing the right words to describe the pain. Learn more about our mission at the Pinehouse Photography Club here.

You’ll find that the Pinehouse Photography Club uses therapeutic photography to help youth in Northern Saskatchewan build coping skills, confidence, and a stronger sense of identity. Since launch, it has supported over 240 youth in finding their “visual anchor” through the lens. The work has also been featured by CBC, National Geographic, and Global News, and inspired the documentary A New Lens on Life!

Therapeutic photography techniques focus on moving from "taking a picture" to "capturing a feeling." Core methods we use include: Mindful Photography: Focusing on the present moment to capture images that resonate with current emotions. Narrative Storytelling: Creating a visual journey that reflects personal experiences and resilience. The "Visual Anchor": Identifying a subject—like the Northern Lights or a local landmark—that represents stability and truth amidst the "noise" of stress. Photo Journaling: Using images as a daily diary to document and reflect on one's personal growth and mental health journey. Collaborative Photography: Working with peers (like we do in the Pinehouse Photography Club) to express shared community stories and build social connection. See these techniques in action in our

Therapeutic photography is a versatile tool designed for anyone navigating high-stress environments or emotional challenges. Our workshops specifically focus on: Youth: Helping young individuals in Northern Saskatchewan find a voice and build resilience through visual storytelling. Healthcare Professionals: As a practicing RN-AAP, I understand the weight of burnout. We use photography to help frontline workers "re-focus" and find moments of stillness. Veterans: Drawing on my own experience as a Canadian Armed Forces veteran, we use the lens to help process trauma and ground ourselves in the present. Indigenous Communities: Empowering youth to connect with their heritage and land through the art of capturing the Northern Lights. Whether you are struggling with mental health challenges or simply seeking a way to practice mindfulness, these workshops provide a "visual prescription" for healing. Click here to learn how to Start a Club in your community.

While both use images for healing, Therapeutic Photography is a self-directed or group practice used for self-exploration and building resilience (like the work we do in Pinehouse). Phototherapy is a formal clinical intervention guided by a trained mental health professional, often using personal or family albums to delve into deep trauma.

Yes. Our methods are grounded in established psychological research and the science of trauma recovery. We specifically cite the work of: Neil Gibson: We utilize his research on the "therapeutic potential of photography" to help individuals explore self-identity and build resilience. Bessel van der Kolk: Our approach incorporates the principles found in his groundbreaking work, The Body Keeps the Score, focusing on how visual and somatic practices help process trauma that words alone cannot reach. As a practicing Primary Care Nurse (RN-AAP) and veteran, I focus on 'externalizing' emotions—using the camera to put a feeling into a photograph so it can be managed and understood from a safe distance.