Photo of Theo Forrester, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15235, PA
Theo Forrester
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
As an Art Therapist, I work to integrate art making with talk therapy because I believe art can speak where words often fail.
Let’s be real: being a person is hard. That’s an easy enough fact to acknowledge, but the truly difficult part is deciding when and where to put your vulnerabilities on display. While committing to the therapeutic process can feel unpredictable and is not without its messy bits, taking a step towards prioritizing yourself and your wellbeing is an act of incredible courage.
As an Art Therapist, I work to integrate art making with talk therapy because I believe art can speak where words often fail.
Let’s be real: being a person is hard. That’s an easy enough fact to acknowledge, but the truly difficult part is deciding when and where to put your vulnerabilities on display. While committing to the therapeutic process can feel unpredictable and is not without its messy bits, taking a step towards prioritizing yourself and your wellbeing is an act of incredible courage.
(412) 207-3712 View (412) 207-3712
Photo of Molly Girard, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15235, PA
Molly Girard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I feel that art is an incredibly powerful form of expression that can allow us to gain insight into ourselves that may not be obtained through talk therapy alone.
I believe therapy is a leap of faith taken to explore ourselves, where we’ve been, where we are, and where we hope to go. This step into the unknown can be scary, but I feel that through open communication and exploration, these steps can become powerful, moving, and exciting. Through my practice, I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. Whether through trauma work, EMDR, life transitions, or art therapy, my goal is to support clients through their unique journeys with kindness, humor, and understanding. Therapy looks different for everyone, and I work to create a space that honors each person's experience.
I feel that art is an incredibly powerful form of expression that can allow us to gain insight into ourselves that may not be obtained through talk therapy alone.
I believe therapy is a leap of faith taken to explore ourselves, where we’ve been, where we are, and where we hope to go. This step into the unknown can be scary, but I feel that through open communication and exploration, these steps can become powerful, moving, and exciting. Through my practice, I strive to create a safe and accepting space for all clients. Whether through trauma work, EMDR, life transitions, or art therapy, my goal is to support clients through their unique journeys with kindness, humor, and understanding. Therapy looks different for everyone, and I work to create a space that honors each person's experience.
(412) 293-0584 View (412) 293-0584
Photo of Betsy A DeChant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 15235, PA
Betsy A DeChant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S, BCD, FAGPA
Verified Verified
Penn Hills, PA 15235
I have been in full-time practice as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist since 1969, and practiced in both hospital and agency psychiatric settings for over 15 years, in addition to maintaining a private practice. Throughout my career, I have provided numerous national and regional training seminars and workshops for MH professionals on women's issues; the chronically mentally ill; dual-diagnosed populations; and group psychotherapy modalities, and have also published in these areas. I have an eclectic style that encourages a flexible and collaborative working partnership which reflects the needs, goals, and personal context of the individual person.
I have been in full-time practice as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist since 1969, and practiced in both hospital and agency psychiatric settings for over 15 years, in addition to maintaining a private practice. Throughout my career, I have provided numerous national and regional training seminars and workshops for MH professionals on women's issues; the chronically mentally ill; dual-diagnosed populations; and group psychotherapy modalities, and have also published in these areas. I have an eclectic style that encourages a flexible and collaborative working partnership which reflects the needs, goals, and personal context of the individual person.
(724) 907-1668 View (724) 907-1668
Photo of Patricia Hanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 15235, PA
Patricia Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
You can schedule on my Website if you like. What you can expect from our first session • A Safe and Nurturing Environment • Enhanced Self-awareness • Practical Coping Strategies • Holistic Well-being • Empowerment • A Deepened Connection • Transformational Conversations In essence, sessions with me are a blend of empathy, expertise, and empowerment. Whether in a crisis, seeking strategies for specific challenges, or yearning for personal growth, our collaborative journey is designed to illuminate paths forward and cultivate enduring mental and emotional strength.
You can schedule on my Website if you like. What you can expect from our first session • A Safe and Nurturing Environment • Enhanced Self-awareness • Practical Coping Strategies • Holistic Well-being • Empowerment • A Deepened Connection • Transformational Conversations In essence, sessions with me are a blend of empathy, expertise, and empowerment. Whether in a crisis, seeking strategies for specific challenges, or yearning for personal growth, our collaborative journey is designed to illuminate paths forward and cultivate enduring mental and emotional strength.
(878) 313-6450 View (878) 313-6450
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.