Art Therapy in Saint Clair County, MI

Photo of Jennifer Fehn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Jennifer Fehn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Marysville, MI 48040
Maybe you feel like you're generally a successful person but can't find contentment. Maybe no matter what you do you're never enough. Maybe you're struggling to make an important change in your life and you just don't know where to start. Maybe you feel like because of your past you don't feel worthy of love or you struggle to create healthy relationships in the present. Maybe you've lost hope that you will ever find peace and you're wondering if life is really worth the effort. I can help you explore and untangle the feelings you're having and provide you with hope. I also help teens and children identify and change problems.
Maybe you feel like you're generally a successful person but can't find contentment. Maybe no matter what you do you're never enough. Maybe you're struggling to make an important change in your life and you just don't know where to start. Maybe you feel like because of your past you don't feel worthy of love or you struggle to create healthy relationships in the present. Maybe you've lost hope that you will ever find peace and you're wondering if life is really worth the effort. I can help you explore and untangle the feelings you're having and provide you with hope. I also help teens and children identify and change problems.
(810) 692-3828 View (810) 692-3828
Photo of Gabriela Marita Vega, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Gabriela Marita Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, DP-C, BSA
Verified Verified
Saint Clair, MI 48079  (Online Only)
Often people feel overwhelmed by their life, circumstances, and relationships. This can be from the cumulative effects of numerous, minor life events to a single, major traumatic life experience. Individually, we may not know where to go or which way to turn. Collaboratively, we can work through the confusion, feelings of helplessness, anxiety and depression to realize your inherent strengths, while providing new resources and tools to find or return to your chosen life path. Using evidence-based practices, we will work together toward your behavioral health goals, personal independence and wellbeing. Success is enjoying life.
Often people feel overwhelmed by their life, circumstances, and relationships. This can be from the cumulative effects of numerous, minor life events to a single, major traumatic life experience. Individually, we may not know where to go or which way to turn. Collaboratively, we can work through the confusion, feelings of helplessness, anxiety and depression to realize your inherent strengths, while providing new resources and tools to find or return to your chosen life path. Using evidence-based practices, we will work together toward your behavioral health goals, personal independence and wellbeing. Success is enjoying life.
(810) 638-9141 View (810) 638-9141
Photo of Wave Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Wave Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Marine City, MI 48039
Therapy is about the relationship. A good therapeutic relationship is where you feel heard and challenged to make changes you feel are healthier. I have an eclectic therapy style where I attempt to provide the best framework for you to learn, explore and grow. I tend to provide short term therapy (less than one year) but others may be need more time. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions or grief, we may be a good fit. Accepting patients 13 years or older. Feel free to contact me to see if we are a good fit! Now offering virtual and in-office sessions. Have weekend availability.
Therapy is about the relationship. A good therapeutic relationship is where you feel heard and challenged to make changes you feel are healthier. I have an eclectic therapy style where I attempt to provide the best framework for you to learn, explore and grow. I tend to provide short term therapy (less than one year) but others may be need more time. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions or grief, we may be a good fit. Accepting patients 13 years or older. Feel free to contact me to see if we are a good fit! Now offering virtual and in-office sessions. Have weekend availability.
(810) 642-4577 View (810) 642-4577
Photo of Jen Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Jen Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Port Huron, MI 48060
Hi! I'm Jen! I've acquired 10 years thus far in service. I enjoy supporting the mental health of individuals, promoting self-actualization and how the root of a problem connects with patterns of behaviors. I focus on encouragement of strengths between parent/child relationships, when working with teens. I work best with First Responders, CPTSD, LGBTQ+ community, teens, motherhood/women’s issues, substance abuse recovery. Interventions utilized may be: talk therapy, skill-based practice, DBT-informed, mindfulness, problem-interpersonal-solution , trauma-informed, somatic-connections, person-centered planning, and gender exploration.
Hi! I'm Jen! I've acquired 10 years thus far in service. I enjoy supporting the mental health of individuals, promoting self-actualization and how the root of a problem connects with patterns of behaviors. I focus on encouragement of strengths between parent/child relationships, when working with teens. I work best with First Responders, CPTSD, LGBTQ+ community, teens, motherhood/women’s issues, substance abuse recovery. Interventions utilized may be: talk therapy, skill-based practice, DBT-informed, mindfulness, problem-interpersonal-solution , trauma-informed, somatic-connections, person-centered planning, and gender exploration.
(586) 488-4089 View (586) 488-4089

Online Therapists

Photo of Amelia McGraw in Saint Clair County, MI
Amelia McGraw
MEd, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
My art therapy approach is deeply rooted in fostering a space of acceptance and empowerment, where you can freely explore your emotions and experiences.
My ideal client is someone with an open mind, eager to delve into self-exploration and healing. They may be contending with anxiety, depression, identity struggles, women's issues, or LGBTQ+ challenges—or a combination thereof. They aspire to enhance coping mechanisms, resolve identity dilemmas, nurture relationships, alleviate stress, or simply seek guidance on their path. No prior art experience is required, but a willingness to experiment with diverse mediums is appreciated. Art therapy offers a versatile toolset to accomplish any personal objective.
My art therapy approach is deeply rooted in fostering a space of acceptance and empowerment, where you can freely explore your emotions and experiences.
My ideal client is someone with an open mind, eager to delve into self-exploration and healing. They may be contending with anxiety, depression, identity struggles, women's issues, or LGBTQ+ challenges—or a combination thereof. They aspire to enhance coping mechanisms, resolve identity dilemmas, nurture relationships, alleviate stress, or simply seek guidance on their path. No prior art experience is required, but a willingness to experiment with diverse mediums is appreciated. Art therapy offers a versatile toolset to accomplish any personal objective.
(313) 385-4595 View (313) 385-4595
Photo of Rachel Corinne Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Rachel Corinne Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MEd, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lambertville, MI 48144
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate an eclectic approach to my therapeutic practice which combines both social work and art therapy techniques. I utilize a combination of several treatment modalities including, positive art therapy, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based systems, and a person-center approach. I look for the strengths in my clients and help them understand how their situation can be influenced by a number of factors including their thoughts, emotions, social interactions, and environment. I assist them in recognizing their internal strengths and how those positive traits can be used to improve their situations.
I incorporate an eclectic approach to my therapeutic practice which combines both social work and art therapy techniques. I utilize a combination of several treatment modalities including, positive art therapy, cognitive-behavioral, strengths-based systems, and a person-center approach. I look for the strengths in my clients and help them understand how their situation can be influenced by a number of factors including their thoughts, emotions, social interactions, and environment. I assist them in recognizing their internal strengths and how those positive traits can be used to improve their situations.
(586) 580-7447 View (586) 580-7447
Photo of Rachel Harkness, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Rachel Harkness
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novi, MI 48375
Waitlist for new clients
As a counselor and art therapist, my approach comes with an understanding that people are multifaceted. When challenges arise, there is no cookie-cutter fix for the situation you may be facing as you are unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs. Talking about difficult matters can be hard, but it can be a little easier when you know you have someone you can trust to discuss them with. I come to sessions with the goal of being supportive, resourceful, authentic, and empathetic since building rapport is crucial to the therapeutic alliance.
As a counselor and art therapist, my approach comes with an understanding that people are multifaceted. When challenges arise, there is no cookie-cutter fix for the situation you may be facing as you are unique, and your therapy should be tailored to your needs. Talking about difficult matters can be hard, but it can be a little easier when you know you have someone you can trust to discuss them with. I come to sessions with the goal of being supportive, resourceful, authentic, and empathetic since building rapport is crucial to the therapeutic alliance.
(734) 821-5478 View (734) 821-5478
Photo of Camille Lorraine Coby, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Camille Lorraine Coby
Counselor, MA, LLPC, ACA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334  (Online Only)
My specialty is children and adolescents using art therapy and other techniques or finding something they are interested in to help them open up.
I’ve always been asked what’s the thing you would do for free? This is it! Especially working with children. My passion is helping people of all ages, to heal their minds through the awesome avenue of talk therapy. I believe together we can journey through this thing called life, and help you become a better person from the inside out, so that you can get back to that place of wholeness and wellness. I can not wait to talk to you.
My specialty is children and adolescents using art therapy and other techniques or finding something they are interested in to help them open up.
I’ve always been asked what’s the thing you would do for free? This is it! Especially working with children. My passion is helping people of all ages, to heal their minds through the awesome avenue of talk therapy. I believe together we can journey through this thing called life, and help you become a better person from the inside out, so that you can get back to that place of wholeness and wellness. I can not wait to talk to you.
(248) 970-9269 View (248) 970-9269
Photo of ASK Counseling, Pastoral Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
ASK Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MA, LPC, NCE
Verified Verified
Saint Johns, MI 48879
I use diverse techniques including art and life coaching to build your strengths and help you break a cycle of anxiety and depression.
ASK Counseling stands for Ask, Seek, and Knock. I can help you ask, seek, and knock to grow and flourish. If what you feel, see and do now in your life, family or marriage, is painful, call me. Together we can bring about change and growth.
I use diverse techniques including art and life coaching to build your strengths and help you break a cycle of anxiety and depression.
ASK Counseling stands for Ask, Seek, and Knock. I can help you ask, seek, and knock to grow and flourish. If what you feel, see and do now in your life, family or marriage, is painful, call me. Together we can bring about change and growth.
(517) 878-4580 View (517) 878-4580
Photo of Halie Byrd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Halie Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Blanc, MI 48439
Therapy should be a fun and enjoyable process, and I work hard to incorporate an eclectic methods of art, creativity, and online platforms to make therapy fun and engaging.
Accepting new clients! Now offering Walk and Talk therapy for in-person services! There are many reasons you or your family may be seeking additional support right now. Maybe you or your child are experiencing anxiety, persistent sadness, behavioral problems, divorce/separation, difficulties in the school setting, or you are just looking for extra support to navigate a major life decision or hardship. I am here to listen and help you take the first steps to accessing the support you need.
Therapy should be a fun and enjoyable process, and I work hard to incorporate an eclectic methods of art, creativity, and online platforms to make therapy fun and engaging.
Accepting new clients! Now offering Walk and Talk therapy for in-person services! There are many reasons you or your family may be seeking additional support right now. Maybe you or your child are experiencing anxiety, persistent sadness, behavioral problems, divorce/separation, difficulties in the school setting, or you are just looking for extra support to navigate a major life decision or hardship. I am here to listen and help you take the first steps to accessing the support you need.
(810) 535-6460 View (810) 535-6460
Photo of Kayleen Roberts, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Kayleen Roberts
Counselor, MA, LLC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48336  (Online Only)
As an art therapist, I recognize the healing power of art and active art-making and will encourage clients to utilize this tool.
We all have a story to tell, we decide where that story is going, and we create our stories in the here and now. I strive to meet clients as they are and where they are when they come to therapy. I aim to create a welcoming, authentic, and safe space to explore feelings, develop stronger coping skills, and gain insight. By taking an active role in the therapeutic process, I am confident in the client’s ability to self-actualize, create the changes they wish to see, and meet their goals. Life can be challenging, but with the right guidance those challenges can become your strongest tools in navigating and transforming your life.
As an art therapist, I recognize the healing power of art and active art-making and will encourage clients to utilize this tool.
We all have a story to tell, we decide where that story is going, and we create our stories in the here and now. I strive to meet clients as they are and where they are when they come to therapy. I aim to create a welcoming, authentic, and safe space to explore feelings, develop stronger coping skills, and gain insight. By taking an active role in the therapeutic process, I am confident in the client’s ability to self-actualize, create the changes they wish to see, and meet their goals. Life can be challenging, but with the right guidance those challenges can become your strongest tools in navigating and transforming your life.
(248) 283-4799 View (248) 283-4799
Photo of Kaitlin Anne Bronstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Kaitlin Anne Bronstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
I provide client specific interventions while using techniques like art therapy, game therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I am a Master's level clinical social worker, providing one-on-therapy. I graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I use a client-centered focus to help each person build self-esteem and feel important. My areas of interest include individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and need support in their peer relationships.
I provide client specific interventions while using techniques like art therapy, game therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
I am a Master's level clinical social worker, providing one-on-therapy. I graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and have experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I use a client-centered focus to help each person build self-esteem and feel important. My areas of interest include individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and need support in their peer relationships.
(248) 609-6528 View (248) 609-6528
Photo of Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC
Counselor, LMSW, LPC, LLP, CAADC, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
(586) 333-5328 View (586) 333-5328
Photo of Calli Kreutzberger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Calli Kreutzberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I often integrate mindfulness and art-based activities to help clients learn to process in the present moment and gain coping skills to bring into all areas of life.
I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys working with adults, couples, and families from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds, as well as those within the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety and panic, anger, intrusive thoughts, self-esteem, mood concerns, and relationships. I create a safe place for clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors at their own pace. I strive for my clients to always feel like they can express themselves in a supportive environment that encourages growth in a non-judgemental way.
I often integrate mindfulness and art-based activities to help clients learn to process in the present moment and gain coping skills to bring into all areas of life.
I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys working with adults, couples, and families from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds, as well as those within the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with a variety of issues including trauma, anxiety and panic, anger, intrusive thoughts, self-esteem, mood concerns, and relationships. I create a safe place for clients to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors at their own pace. I strive for my clients to always feel like they can express themselves in a supportive environment that encourages growth in a non-judgemental way.
(517) 955-2990 View (517) 955-2990
Photo of Cynthia Swartz, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Cynthia Swartz
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chelsea, MI 48118  (Online Only)
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
Therefore, I often adopt art and play therapies, along with a cognitive behavioral counseling and solution-oriented approaches.
I believe that when people seek counseling it is because they want to make a change in their lives, improve a life situation, make a decision, solve a problem or have greater understanding and insight to their lives. Counseling is a trusting partnership between client and counselor. A process of looking at and integrating thoughts, feelings and actions in a safe environment. It is not about telling you how or when to change, but rather finding what works best for you. Effective counseling requires a commitment of time, energy, and active participation by both client and counselor.
(517) 441-3106 View (517) 441-3106
Photo of Annemarie Rini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Annemarie Rini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48098
My interpersonal style is warm and direct, and I often utilize humor, music, and art in my therapy.
Accepting new patients now! Are you feeling stuck, in a rut or down? Do you know what you want but feel confused about how to get there? Getting stuck sometimes is normal and I can help. I believe that every person possesses a self-correcting impulse but, can only access this given the right circumstances. I will offer a safe & nurturing space to reconnect with this part of you. My goal in therapy is to help you gain personal insight and self mastery as well as self-compassion so that you may learn to overcome difficult or overwhelming feelings. As we work together, I will support and guide you toward confidence and independence.
My interpersonal style is warm and direct, and I often utilize humor, music, and art in my therapy.
Accepting new patients now! Are you feeling stuck, in a rut or down? Do you know what you want but feel confused about how to get there? Getting stuck sometimes is normal and I can help. I believe that every person possesses a self-correcting impulse but, can only access this given the right circumstances. I will offer a safe & nurturing space to reconnect with this part of you. My goal in therapy is to help you gain personal insight and self mastery as well as self-compassion so that you may learn to overcome difficult or overwhelming feelings. As we work together, I will support and guide you toward confidence and independence.
(248) 453-6013 View (248) 453-6013
Photo of Katelin Jobin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Katelin Jobin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As an art therapist, I can offer a variety of options in session to support your exploration and expression of self in a unique way.
Adults, Anxiety, Addiction/Family Recovery, Life Transitions. You are unique. Therefore, I'd like to spend time learning your language - How do you experience life? How do you view yourself? What is your story and how is this impacting you now? Trust is foundational to our work together so that you can feel supported and heard. Our sessions will be collaborative - we will actively work together - to focus on what has been going on AND discover what life looks like moving forward. Let's honor where you are AND learn skills to support your health.
As an art therapist, I can offer a variety of options in session to support your exploration and expression of self in a unique way.
Adults, Anxiety, Addiction/Family Recovery, Life Transitions. You are unique. Therefore, I'd like to spend time learning your language - How do you experience life? How do you view yourself? What is your story and how is this impacting you now? Trust is foundational to our work together so that you can feel supported and heard. Our sessions will be collaborative - we will actively work together - to focus on what has been going on AND discover what life looks like moving forward. Let's honor where you are AND learn skills to support your health.
(947) 208-4842 View (947) 208-4842
Photo of Lindsay LaBoda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Clair County, MI
Lindsay LaBoda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
I have received training in play therapy, art therapy, attachment theory and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) .
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help provide support for individuals, children and families in a nurturing and empathic environment. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space in which you are in control of your own goals in treatment. I encourage an open therapeutic relationship to help individuals, parents or children feel emotionally supported and able to genuinely express themselves. I work to provide individuals and families with the tools to effectively move toward a positive change.
I have received training in play therapy, art therapy, attachment theory and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) .
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help provide support for individuals, children and families in a nurturing and empathic environment. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space in which you are in control of your own goals in treatment. I encourage an open therapeutic relationship to help individuals, parents or children feel emotionally supported and able to genuinely express themselves. I work to provide individuals and families with the tools to effectively move toward a positive change.
(248) 997-4392 View (248) 997-4392
Photo of Gloria Waugh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Gloria Waugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Bay City, MI 48708
She also holds a Masters of Education in Art Therapy through Wayne State University and worked in inpatient facilities as an Art Therapist for hospice patients and their families.
Gloria Waugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her undergraduate degree in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University and her Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. She began her career working as an outpatient clinician treating children, teens, adults and families with diverse diagnosis including severe and persistent mental illnesses, mood disorders, bi-polar, schizophrenia, depression, anger, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders, chronic pain, PMDD, personality disorders and co-occurring disorders.
She also holds a Masters of Education in Art Therapy through Wayne State University and worked in inpatient facilities as an Art Therapist for hospice patients and their families.
Gloria Waugh is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her undergraduate degree in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University and her Master of Arts in Counseling from Spring Arbor University. She began her career working as an outpatient clinician treating children, teens, adults and families with diverse diagnosis including severe and persistent mental illnesses, mood disorders, bi-polar, schizophrenia, depression, anger, anxiety, ADHD, post-traumatic stress disorders, chronic pain, PMDD, personality disorders and co-occurring disorders.
(989) 303-3879 View (989) 303-3879
Photo of Stephanie Manske, Counselor in Saint Clair County, MI
Stephanie Manske
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
Thank you for visiting my profile! I enjoy working with teens and young adults, helping them to navigate through life's decisions and challenges; specializing in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, adjustment disorders, interpersonal relationships, and career development. I also love to work with children ages 6+ leaning into art & play therapy as excellent tools for engaging them. In addition, I am passionate about supporting parents as they navigate their feelings, relationships, and place within their community, school & family.
Thank you for visiting my profile! I enjoy working with teens and young adults, helping them to navigate through life's decisions and challenges; specializing in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, adjustment disorders, interpersonal relationships, and career development. I also love to work with children ages 6+ leaning into art & play therapy as excellent tools for engaging them. In addition, I am passionate about supporting parents as they navigate their feelings, relationships, and place within their community, school & family.
(734) 849-4576 View (734) 849-4576

See more therapy options for Saint Clair County

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.