How art can transform a kid’s trauma into resilience with Matt Sandoval

Release date: December 15, 2025

Matt Sandoval is in the business of transforming kids’ trauma. To accomplish this, he and Free Arts, the organization he leads, employ a simple formula: art + mentors = resilience. Matt and I discuss how this equation works, as well as his tips for using art to build resilience in your home, in your classroom, or in your program. More information about Matt and Free Arts is below.

Biography of Matt Sandoval

Matt Sandoval, M.Ed., M.S.W., LMSW, is a widely sought-after speaker, workshop facilitator, and mental health clinician. He holds a master’s degree in education from Northern Arizona University and a master’s degree in social work from Arizona State University.  He is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Free Arts, where he has led the organization over the last two years. Free Arts, under his leadership, has continued to be an innovator in trauma-informed art healing experiences for children, youth and families. 

Links

Free Arts

https://freeartsaz.org/