WHO WE ARE
Established in Geneva in 2015, For The Art is a Swiss registered non-profit organization dedicated to leveraging the healing power of art therapy. We harness the transformative power of art to heal, empower, and uplift individuals and communities.
In a world where mental health remains a global crisis, millions are left without access to the support they need. Art therapy provides a proven, cost-effective solution to help people of all ages navigate trauma, stress, and emotional challenges.
By investing in creative expression, we are Healing stronger communities Through the Arts.
OUR STORY
For The Art was founded by Rouane and Yasmina Wakim, two sisters of Lebanese origin whose lives were shaped by their experience of forced displacement during the Lebanese civil war.
This personal history of exile in Geneva, Switzerland and identity gave rise to a deep commitment: to support others through meaningful mental health care rooted in empathy, dignity, and expression.
Together, they created For The Art, initially focusing on addressing the psychological wounds of conflict in Lebanon and among marginalzed comunities in Geneva.
Their mission has since grown: to democratize access to mental health care through art therapy and create inclusive, safe spaces where emotional expression is possible and voices are heard.
From the very beginning, Rouane and Yasmina have been joined by a dedicated team of art therapists, program coordinators, social workers, and psychologists based in Switzerland, Lebanon, and beyond.
To further amplify our mission and challenge the stigma around mental health, they launched Through the Heart — a global initiative that brings together artists, art therapists, collectors, and communities to connect, reflect, and take action through art.
VISION & VALUES
A world where everyone has access to creative tools for emotional healing and self-expression.
Listening & Empathy: Every voice deserves to be heard.
Empowerment: We help individuals rediscover their voice through creation.
Healing Through Expression: Art is a tool for care, not just for culture.
Freedom & Joy: Expression without shame, fear, or judgment.
ART & MENTAL HEALTH
Over the past two decades, research — including a major reports by the World Health Organization — has confirmed that the arts have a measurable impact on mental and emotional health. Art engages multiple dimensions of human experience: emotion, cognition, imagination, sensory perception, and social connection.
Art can:
1.
Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
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Improve emotional regulation.
3.
Lower physiological stress markers (like cortisol).
4.
Strengthen social bonds and self-confidence.
5.
And support healing from trauma.
Art activates areas of the brain associated with memory, empathy, and meaning-making. For individuals who struggle to express their emotions verbally — such as children, trauma survivors, or displaced populations — creative expression offers a safe and non-threatening way to process internal experiences.
our artists & supporters
MEET THE TEAM
For The Art was founded by Yasmina and Rouane Wakim, whose vision now unites a dedicated team of certified art therapists, program coordinators, social workers, and psychologists based in Switzerland, Lebanon, and beyond.
Together with talented artists and engaged supporters, we combine our unique perspectives and energy to advance our mission. This collective of founders, professionals, artists, and supporters forms the soul of For The Art—driven by the belief that everyone deserves a safe space to express themselves and be heard.
co-founders
Rouane Wakim, Co-founder and President, brings over 20 years of experience in finance and humanitarian work. Her transition into the mental health field led her to become a certified biofeedback and neurofeedback therapist. Today, she runs her own practice and is completing her Master’s in Counseling, equipping her with the clinical tools to design and oversee impactful therapeutic programs.
Yasmina Wakim, Co-founder and Treasurer, is an architect, social entrepreneur, and philanthropist, deeply committed to improving the lives of children affected by displacement. Her work in cultural and community projects allows her to build inclusive frameworks that bridge creativity and care, especially for underserved populations.
Certified art therapists
Aline El Ramy
Music therapist, dance movement therapist, and social worker, Aline supports children, families, and vulnerable communities through creative and inclusive therapeutic practices in Lebanon and Egypt.
Dima Oubari
Speech therapist, audiologist, and dance movement therapist, Dima brings a holistic approach to communication and emotional well-being, with a special focus on vulnerable and displaced communities.
Jean Daccache
Actor, drama therapist, and co-founder of Wholistic Dramatherapists, Jean merges theatre and therapy to promote emotional expression and well-being for individuals and groups across Lebanon.
Myriam Saade
Actor and drama therapist, Myriam leverages theatre techniques to guide individuals through healing processes, empowering them to tell their stories and restore emotional balance.
Mike Ayvazian
Expressive arts therapist and psychodrama facilitator, Mike combines theatre, trauma-informed care, and social change work, supporting vulnerable communities in Lebanon, Syria, and Armenia.
Natacha Rizk
Drama therapist and visual artist, Natacha uses the power of theatre to foster emotional healing, offering individual and group sessions across Lebanon through creative expression.
Zeina El Zein
Music therapist and emergency pedagogue, Zeina blends music, art, and crisis intervention to support children and communities facing trauma, especially in educational and humanitarian settings.