At symbiosis view therapy as a symbiotic relationship between therapist and client, where both parties contribute to growth and healing. As a trauma-informed therapist specializing in art therapy and EMDR, I believe in the power of connection and collaboration in the therapeutic process. Together, we explore the depths of your experiences, nurturing a bond that fosters trust and resilience. With a focus on symbiotic healing, I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards wholeness and well-being.
Hosted by Adrienne Terese Iannazzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22203
With a blend of art therapy, EMDR, DBT, and IFS, we build essential skills to manage present symptoms and triggers.
At symbiosis view therapy as a symbiotic relationship between therapist and client, where both parties contribute to growth and healing. As a trauma-informed therapist specializing in art therapy and EMDR, I believe in the power of connection and collaboration in the therapeutic process. Together, we explore the depths of your experiences, nurturing a bond that fosters trust and resilience. With a focus on symbiotic healing, I am committed to supporting you on your journey towards wholeness and well-being.
Children ages 6-10 of introverted temperament come together to form supportive friendships, cope with social anxiety, and practice social skills; through play, art making and mindful movement. With Dr.D’s facilitation, children become aware of the strengths of introverts, cope with social anxiety, and practice friendship skills, such as initiating/exiting interactions, joining groups, resolving conflicts and responding to teasing. This group is appropriate for children who experience social anxiety or separation anxiety, or have been formally evaluated for Autism Spectrum Disorder, in level 1 (not 2 or 3). 6 sessions, 55 min for $800. Children 6-10.
Hosted by Diana Bermudez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22207
Registered Art Therapist, Certified in Theraplay-Level 1, Certified Child Yoga Instructor (RCY-1).
Children ages 6-10 of introverted temperament come together to form supportive friendships, cope with social anxiety, and practice social skills; through play, art making and mindful movement. With Dr.D’s facilitation, children become aware of the strengths of introverts, cope with social anxiety, and practice friendship skills, such as initiating/exiting interactions, joining groups, resolving conflicts and responding to teasing. This group is appropriate for children who experience social anxiety or separation anxiety, or have been formally evaluated for Autism Spectrum Disorder, in level 1 (not 2 or 3). 6 sessions, 55 min for $800. Children 6-10.
Children ages 6-10 who are separated from a primary caregiver meet and bond with peers in similar circumstances, using play, art making and mindful movement. Separation from caregiver could be due to parents’ divorce/separation, overseas work posting, military deployment, inability to be caregiver and others. With Dr. D’s facilitation and interaction with their peers, children will be supported to cope with the caregiver’s absence, and practice forms of strengthening their long-distance connection. 6 sessions, 55 min for $800. Kids ages 6-10.
Hosted by Diana Bermudez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22207
Registered Art Therapist, Certified in Theraplay-Level 1, Certified Child Yoga Instructor (RCY-1).
Children ages 6-10 who are separated from a primary caregiver meet and bond with peers in similar circumstances, using play, art making and mindful movement. Separation from caregiver could be due to parents’ divorce/separation, overseas work posting, military deployment, inability to be caregiver and others. With Dr. D’s facilitation and interaction with their peers, children will be supported to cope with the caregiver’s absence, and practice forms of strengthening their long-distance connection. 6 sessions, 55 min for $800. Kids ages 6-10.
Rise in Harmony is an in-person, therapist-led support circle for women who seek a creative space to reduce stress, embody positive messages, release emotions, and feel more connected. Each session blends songs with meaningful lyrics, simple movement together (aka dancing), guided reflection, and supportive conversation to help participants reconnect with themselves and each other.
Hosted by Diana Bermudez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Group meets in Arlington, VA 22203
Registered Art Therapist, Certified in Theraplay-Level 1, Certified Child Yoga Instructor (RCY-1).
Rise in Harmony is an in-person, therapist-led support circle for women who seek a creative space to reduce stress, embody positive messages, release emotions, and feel more connected. Each session blends songs with meaningful lyrics, simple movement together (aka dancing), guided reflection, and supportive conversation to help participants reconnect with themselves and each other.
Online Groups
This 6 week group centers on the needs of high school aged students that are seeking support to navigate the complexities of today's world. Based on the SELF curriculum, members will explore topics of boundaries, self-identity, social media, loss, self-care and the future. This group is based in expressive therapy techniques and will utilize a range of techniques beyond talk therapy. Members will be able to connect and share in a safe and supportive environment. Group cycle runs about every 3 months.
This 6 week group centers on the needs of high school aged students that are seeking support to navigate the complexities of today's world. Based on the SELF curriculum, members will explore topics of boundaries, self-identity, social media, loss, self-care and the future. This group is based in expressive therapy techniques and will utilize a range of techniques beyond talk therapy. Members will be able to connect and share in a safe and supportive environment. Group cycle runs about every 3 months.
In person group for girls ages 5-7. Led by Kirsten Ashey, MA, ATR-P, Resident in Counseling. Meets 6 weeks on Saturdays, 10am. Early childhood friendships can be challenging to navigate, especially as children begin school. If your child is struggling to make or keep friendships we can help! Our art based coaching group provides girls ages 5-7, a supportive environment to learn, navigate and practice with peers the essential skills needed to make and keep healthy friendships. We are inclusive and supportive group and we welcome all participants ages 5-7 who identify as female.
In person group for girls ages 5-7. Led by Kirsten Ashey, MA, ATR-P, Resident in Counseling. Meets 6 weeks on Saturdays, 10am. Early childhood friendships can be challenging to navigate, especially as children begin school. If your child is struggling to make or keep friendships we can help! Our art based coaching group provides girls ages 5-7, a supportive environment to learn, navigate and practice with peers the essential skills needed to make and keep healthy friendships. We are inclusive and supportive group and we welcome all participants ages 5-7 who identify as female.
Every Monday in person led by Anna Batchelder, Resident in Counseling and Venise Darisme, LPC at the Alexandria location at 4:30 p.m.
Hosted by Brightness in the Rain Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCMHC, CCTP
Group meets in Alexandria, VA 22312
Every Monday in person led by Anna Batchelder, Resident in Counseling and Venise Darisme, LPC at the Alexandria location at 4:30 p.m.
Come meet other caring women with whom to share thoughts, feelings, emotions and ideas! Explore your journey of pregnancy and transition into motherhood, though discussion and art, during safe and supportive group sessions. Before your baby arrives, pregnancy sessions will help you prepare for changes and learn ways to manage the mental and emotional challenges of being a new parent. Expectant parents have so many important decisions and tasks ahead, peer support becomes invaluable during this ephemeral time. Besides gaining 'mom friends' and feeling supported, you will obtain health and wellness information as well!
Come meet other caring women with whom to share thoughts, feelings, emotions and ideas! Explore your journey of pregnancy and transition into motherhood, though discussion and art, during safe and supportive group sessions. Before your baby arrives, pregnancy sessions will help you prepare for changes and learn ways to manage the mental and emotional challenges of being a new parent. Expectant parents have so many important decisions and tasks ahead, peer support becomes invaluable during this ephemeral time. Besides gaining 'mom friends' and feeling supported, you will obtain health and wellness information as well!
Brave Voices Camp (Ages 10–13) is a creative, supportive program where preteens build confidence, connection, and self-expression through theater, movement, storytelling, improvisation, and voice activities. Participants strengthen social-emotional skills, communication, creativity, teamwork, and self-esteem while developing greater awareness of their emotions, bodies, boundaries, and authentic voices. Designed to support resilience and self-trust during the preteen years, the camp emphasizes collaboration, play, and personal growth over performance. The experience concludes with a celebratory sharing opportunity. No theater experience is required—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to participate!
Hosted by Jackie Sargent
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a trauma informed art therapist that integrates art therapy, sand tray therapy, and IFS into my practice with clients.
Brave Voices Camp (Ages 10–13) is a creative, supportive program where preteens build confidence, connection, and self-expression through theater, movement, storytelling, improvisation, and voice activities. Participants strengthen social-emotional skills, communication, creativity, teamwork, and self-esteem while developing greater awareness of their emotions, bodies, boundaries, and authentic voices. Designed to support resilience and self-trust during the preteen years, the camp emphasizes collaboration, play, and personal growth over performance. The experience concludes with a celebratory sharing opportunity. No theater experience is required—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to participate!
SoulCollage® in person are available . Lilla is a certified SoulCollage® Facilitator. We create 5"x7" cards using the soul collage® system invented by Seen Frost. This method is great for parts work or simply getting to know ones self and opening the doors to new possibilities in life. These groups are creative , insightful and require no previous art experience.
You will come to a session in my art studio.
SoulCollage® in person are available . Lilla is a certified SoulCollage® Facilitator. We create 5"x7" cards using the soul collage® system invented by Seen Frost. This method is great for parts work or simply getting to know ones self and opening the doors to new possibilities in life. These groups are creative , insightful and require no previous art experience.
Connection through creativity and community. Come join our ongoing women’s therapeutic art group every other Wednesday starting March 25. This is a space for women to connect with themselves and others through art making and discussion. Some topics we might cover are boundaries, connecting in relationships, work-life balance, rest, and the mind-body connection. Superbills for out-of-network benefits will be provided. Please reach out with questions or go to our website to register https://www.kaleidoscope-arttherapy.com/
I offer art therapy & counseling virtually and in-person at our Herndon, VA office on weekdays with morning, day, and evening availability
Connection through creativity and community. Come join our ongoing women’s therapeutic art group every other Wednesday starting March 25. This is a space for women to connect with themselves and others through art making and discussion. Some topics we might cover are boundaries, connecting in relationships, work-life balance, rest, and the mind-body connection. Superbills for out-of-network benefits will be provided. Please reach out with questions or go to our website to register https://www.kaleidoscope-arttherapy.com/
Using art materials, clients will be able to navigate and process feelings regarding relationships. Through the group process, young people will have the opportunity to practice skills learned in a supportive and emotionally safe environment. Through directives, children will be challenged with creating and maintaining positive relationships.
Hosted by The Resilience Network LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Group meets in Ashburn, VA 20147
Using art materials, clients will be able to navigate and process feelings regarding relationships. Through the group process, young people will have the opportunity to practice skills learned in a supportive and emotionally safe environment. Through directives, children will be challenged with creating and maintaining positive relationships.
Supportive and welcoming gathering of like- minded women looking to make changes and bring greater wellbeing into their lives. The circle is somewhere between a support group and workshop. We meet biweekly in the evenings. Facilitated by a registered, board certified art therapist. First workshop is free to all new participants. Group limited to 6 people, advanced registration is required. Please visit our website for more information and to register, www.sagehousearttherapy.com
Hosted by Kate Tedeschi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Group meets in Reston, VA 20190
Supportive and welcoming gathering of like- minded women looking to make changes and bring greater wellbeing into their lives. The circle is somewhere between a support group and workshop. We meet biweekly in the evenings. Facilitated by a registered, board certified art therapist. First workshop is free to all new participants. Group limited to 6 people, advanced registration is required. Please visit our website for more information and to register, www.sagehousearttherapy.com
This group is a 8 week group where adolescents will learn how to navigate and negotiate their symptoms of anxiety and depression. The cost of the group is $400 and is self-pay only accepting cash, check, or credit card. Times and days are to be determined There is a separate group for preteens. The cost and times are the same.
Hosted by Carpe Diem Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Group meets in Winchester, VA 22601
This group is a 8 week group where adolescents will learn how to navigate and negotiate their symptoms of anxiety and depression. The cost of the group is $400 and is self-pay only accepting cash, check, or credit card. Times and days are to be determined There is a separate group for preteens. The cost and times are the same.
Palette of Possibilities is an 8-week, gender-affirming therapy group designed for transgender, non-binary, gender-expansive, and gender-exploring youth ages 10–13. This group offers a creative, supportive space where kids can explore identity, express emotions, and connect with peers who may share similar experiences. No prior art experience is needed! All gender identities and expressions are welcomed and celebrated! The group will run in 8-week, ongoing cycles. Potential clients can learn more and sign up here: https://fairfaxplacetherapy.com/
Palette of Possibilities is an 8-week, gender-affirming therapy group designed for transgender, non-binary, gender-expansive, and gender-exploring youth ages 10–13. This group offers a creative, supportive space where kids can explore identity, express emotions, and connect with peers who may share similar experiences. No prior art experience is needed! All gender identities and expressions are welcomed and celebrated! The group will run in 8-week, ongoing cycles. Potential clients can learn more and sign up here: https://fairfaxplacetherapy.com/
Kintsugi or kintsukuroi is a Japanese art form in which breaks and repairs are treated as part of the object's history. Broken ceramics are carefully mended by artisans with a lacquer resin mixed with powdered gold, silver or platinum. The repairs are visible - yet somehow beautiful. Kintsugi means "golden joinery" in Japanese. Beginning late fall, 2019, Loudoun Psychological will be offering a course in kintsugi. The premise of this group is to learn about this ancient art form while applying the principles of repair to the strength we develop as we experience life.
Kintsugi or kintsukuroi is a Japanese art form in which breaks and repairs are treated as part of the object's history. Broken ceramics are carefully mended by artisans with a lacquer resin mixed with powdered gold, silver or platinum. The repairs are visible - yet somehow beautiful. Kintsugi means "golden joinery" in Japanese. Beginning late fall, 2019, Loudoun Psychological will be offering a course in kintsugi. The premise of this group is to learn about this ancient art form while applying the principles of repair to the strength we develop as we experience life.
I am a SoulCollage® Facilitator, who occasionally offers groups. We gather to assemble collage cards and discuss the individual cards as separate entities speaking from the cards we begin with "I am one who" . This is a deep practice, which accesses the unconscious mind connecting consciousness to what was previously unconscious.
You will come to a session in my art studio.
I am a SoulCollage® Facilitator, who occasionally offers groups. We gather to assemble collage cards and discuss the individual cards as separate entities speaking from the cards we begin with "I am one who" . This is a deep practice, which accesses the unconscious mind connecting consciousness to what was previously unconscious.
Come together with other parents in a warm and supportive environment, connecting to your abilities in becoming more grounded in yourself, more regulate in your day, and more connected to your child(ren). Experience how: Mind-body practice, Expressive art making, Understanding the nervous system, Working with relationship and attachment patterns, and polyvagal theory - can support your journey as a parent!
Hosted by Becky Jacobson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, LMT
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23235
In each session Somatic, Attachment, Polyvagal, Compassion, Art Therapy, and Parts work is always available to be utilized.
Come together with other parents in a warm and supportive environment, connecting to your abilities in becoming more grounded in yourself, more regulate in your day, and more connected to your child(ren). Experience how: Mind-body practice, Expressive art making, Understanding the nervous system, Working with relationship and attachment patterns, and polyvagal theory - can support your journey as a parent!
Our Creative Expression Group will focus on challenging negative thoughts, fostering identity exploration, improving self-esteem, and building resilience through the use of art therapy. The group is for adolescents ages 13-17.
Hosted by Lighthouse Behavioral Health Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Richmond, VA 23235
Our Creative Expression Group will focus on challenging negative thoughts, fostering identity exploration, improving self-esteem, and building resilience through the use of art therapy. The group is for adolescents ages 13-17.
Beyond the Filter: A Group for Middle School Girls (Ages 10–13) Middle school can be a lot for girls; comparison, social media pressure, shifting friendships, and big feelings they don’t always know how to name. Beyond the Filter is a supportive, age-appropriate group for girls (6th–8th grade) designed to help them: Build confidence - Strengthen self-esteem - Learn healthy, balanced social media habits - Practice kindness, courage, and emotional expression. Through creative activities, discussion, and calming practices, girls are given a safe space to be themselves, connect with peers, and grow.
Beyond the Filter: A Group for Middle School Girls (Ages 10–13) Middle school can be a lot for girls; comparison, social media pressure, shifting friendships, and big feelings they don’t always know how to name. Beyond the Filter is a supportive, age-appropriate group for girls (6th–8th grade) designed to help them: Build confidence - Strengthen self-esteem - Learn healthy, balanced social media habits - Practice kindness, courage, and emotional expression. Through creative activities, discussion, and calming practices, girls are given a safe space to be themselves, connect with peers, and grow.
See more therapy options for Arlington County
Art Therapy Support Groups
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.