Photo of Emma Smith, Counselor in 48215, MI
Emma Smith
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grosse Pointe, MI 48215
At Blue Thistle Therapy, I value holistic healing and authenticity. My practice is rooted in relationship-based counseling, and I dig deep in order to connect with the real you. I am not a “smile and nod” therapist. I believe that therapy should be challenging, and I’m here to partner with you in your journey toward positive growth.
At Blue Thistle Therapy, I value holistic healing and authenticity. My practice is rooted in relationship-based counseling, and I dig deep in order to connect with the real you. I am not a “smile and nod” therapist. I believe that therapy should be challenging, and I’m here to partner with you in your journey toward positive growth.
(231) 310-1766 View (231) 310-1766
Photo of Hadley Kleinschmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 48215, MI
Hadley Kleinschmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grosse Pointe, MI 48215
Do you feel like you can’t escape harmful patterns, are spinning in anxiety, or unable to find real joy? Are you struggling to understand why you can’t create the change you want to see in your life? For many of us, the root of our most difficult feelings and harmful patterns are emotional wounds we still harbor deep inside. The process of uncovering and learning about our personal histories can help us move through the pains that are buried within us, and towards the life you want.
Do you feel like you can’t escape harmful patterns, are spinning in anxiety, or unable to find real joy? Are you struggling to understand why you can’t create the change you want to see in your life? For many of us, the root of our most difficult feelings and harmful patterns are emotional wounds we still harbor deep inside. The process of uncovering and learning about our personal histories can help us move through the pains that are buried within us, and towards the life you want.
(313) 710-6873 View (313) 710-6873

See more therapy options for 48215

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.