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In the theater

CREATIVE MINDS

Caring for the Artist Behind the Performance

TRAINING

Creative Minds is D&G Wellness Consulting's dedicated program for young artists and performers — dancers, musicians, actors, and other performing artists who face many of the same mental and emotional demands as athletes, but rarely have the same conversation around mental health. These workshops help students understand the connection between wellness and artistry, build sustainable habits, and perform with confidence, on stage and off.

The Inner Stage
Why Mental Health Matters in the Arts

  • Understand the unique mental health challenges faced by artists and performers

  • Recognize common signs of stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, and perfectionism

  • Explore the relationship between mental wellness, creativity, and performance

Building the Resilient Artist
The Habits Behind the Highlight Reel

  • Understand how sleep, nutrition, hydration, and recovery impact performance and mental health

  • Develop healthy coping strategies for managing stress and setbacks

  • Learn the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain balance

Mental & Emotional Agility in the Arts
Performing with Confidence Under Pressure

  • Explore the connection between emotions, creativity, and performance

  • Develop healthy strategies for managing performance anxiety and emotions

  • Strengthen emotional flexibility and resilience

​Supporting Student and Educator Mental Health Through Connection, Compassion, and Leadership

  • Tools to help foster a culture of care, connection, and psychological safety

  • Learn the warning signs and how to offer support

  • Focus on educator well-being, providing strategies to prevent burnout, manage stress, and model healthy habits

Our Approach

  • Professional Development Workshops

  • Parent & Family Education

  • Half-Day and Full-Day Institutes

  • Ongoing Coaching

  • Keynote Presentations

  • Student & Company Programs

  • Studio & Department Training

  • In-Person or Virtual Programs

Program Director

Dean Vallas

Dean Vallas is the former Director of Fine Arts for the North Tonawanda City School District where he oversaw the music, visual art, dance, and theatre programs until his recent retirement.  North Tonawanda is a progressive arts district having recently invested millions in a new Fine Arts Center which Dean managed.  As a seasoned music educator, Dean has conducted choruses nationally, notable performances include Lincoln Center, The Grand Ol Opry, Statue of Liberty, and The Kennedy Center.  Dean is also a sought after choral conductor and clinician conducting honors choirs across New York State.  Dean is also experienced in musical theatre having directed the famed song and dance troup The Spirit of Youth, Summer theatre camps, and the yearly musicals and plays in North Tonawanda.  Dean is a dynamic presenter and is passionate about addressing mental health issues for students and teachers. Dean holds degrees from The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and The University at Buffalo.

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