Photo of C. Licciardo LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08753, NJ
C. Licciardo LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
I work with clients looking to overcome and sustain changes in life. I've spent nearly four decades learning and teaching at the former St. Vincent’s Hospital dept. of Psychiatry in Manhattan’s West Village treating children, adolescents and adults. The issues: family crises; trauma; learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, asperger's syndrome; mood instability and the paralyzing effects of anxiety/panic. It takes grit, patience; the right educational space and faith in growth. I coach clients into enriching and sustainable university and graduate school placements and writers into a safe free creative space.
I work with clients looking to overcome and sustain changes in life. I've spent nearly four decades learning and teaching at the former St. Vincent’s Hospital dept. of Psychiatry in Manhattan’s West Village treating children, adolescents and adults. The issues: family crises; trauma; learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, asperger's syndrome; mood instability and the paralyzing effects of anxiety/panic. It takes grit, patience; the right educational space and faith in growth. I coach clients into enriching and sustainable university and graduate school placements and writers into a safe free creative space.
(732) 733-4931 View (732) 733-4931
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.