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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ursula Jorgensen, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ursula Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, CA 94002
I provide a friendly, honest, non-judgemental therapeutic space with a combination of talk therapy and expressive techniques to engage the areas of challenge and celebrate the character strengths that make you unique. Art Therapy is offered to explore a visual way using sand tray, drawing, journaling, collage, painting, or imaginative play. This safe space offers therapeutic support to children, teens and adults with a primary focus on symptoms including anxiety, depression, life transitions (loss, illness, divorce/separation) and self identity exploration affected by trauma, circumstance, orientation or non-conforming individuals.
I provide a friendly, honest, non-judgemental therapeutic space with a combination of talk therapy and expressive techniques to engage the areas of challenge and celebrate the character strengths that make you unique. Art Therapy is offered to explore a visual way using sand tray, drawing, journaling, collage, painting, or imaginative play. This safe space offers therapeutic support to children, teens and adults with a primary focus on symptoms including anxiety, depression, life transitions (loss, illness, divorce/separation) and self identity exploration affected by trauma, circumstance, orientation or non-conforming individuals.
(650) 670-4812 View (650) 670-4812
Photo of Ollie Maggi, MA, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ollie Maggi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Ollie! I'm an LMFT that provides psychotherapy to adolescents, adults and couples. I specialize in ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent diagnoses. I have a second Master's in School Psychology, and have worked testing and diagnosing in the school system for years. My training in both of these areas allows me to help individuals better navigate a world that can feel incredibly frustrating at times (okay, probably a lot of the time). Whether you suspect you may have ADHD or other neurodivergent symptoms, or have been diagnosed for years, I am here to help daily life become more manageable.
Hi there, I'm Ollie! I'm an LMFT that provides psychotherapy to adolescents, adults and couples. I specialize in ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent diagnoses. I have a second Master's in School Psychology, and have worked testing and diagnosing in the school system for years. My training in both of these areas allows me to help individuals better navigate a world that can feel incredibly frustrating at times (okay, probably a lot of the time). Whether you suspect you may have ADHD or other neurodivergent symptoms, or have been diagnosed for years, I am here to help daily life become more manageable.
(925) 744-6427 View (925) 744-6427
Photo of Melinda Haynes - Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94404  (Online Only)
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
(530) 451-4151 View (530) 451-4151
Photo of Mariela Lopez, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mariela Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
My goal as your therapist is to create a safe space to share your story and be yourself. I believe in growth, change, breaking cycles, and building the best version of yourself. I value supporting diverse clients in all areas of life and meeting them where they are at. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety and loss/grief. Therapeutic approaches I use are client centered, CBT, solution focused, mindfulness and trauma informed.
My goal as your therapist is to create a safe space to share your story and be yourself. I believe in growth, change, breaking cycles, and building the best version of yourself. I value supporting diverse clients in all areas of life and meeting them where they are at. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety and loss/grief. Therapeutic approaches I use are client centered, CBT, solution focused, mindfulness and trauma informed.
(650) 487-1381 View (650) 487-1381
Photo of Rocio B Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rocio B Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I am a licensed bilingual, bicultural therapist who has been working in the mental health field for over 16 years. I enjoy working with the person who is ready to take that first step to make change. I support them by promoting a safe space in order to begin the therapeutic work. I normally work with individuals and families with multiple siblings. Recently I have been working with couples coming to address relationship challenges: intimacy and infidelity, finances, gambling and addictions, co-parenting and blended families, domestic violence and child abuse, as well as other relationship challenges.
I am a licensed bilingual, bicultural therapist who has been working in the mental health field for over 16 years. I enjoy working with the person who is ready to take that first step to make change. I support them by promoting a safe space in order to begin the therapeutic work. I normally work with individuals and families with multiple siblings. Recently I have been working with couples coming to address relationship challenges: intimacy and infidelity, finances, gambling and addictions, co-parenting and blended families, domestic violence and child abuse, as well as other relationship challenges.
(415) 763-6455 View (415) 763-6455
Photo of Lorie J. Muellenbach, PhD, Psychologist
Lorie J. Muellenbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94402
I work with children, teens and young adults who come for school problems, behavioral problems or mood disturbances including anxiety. Therapy can be helpful for dealing with these issues. When children aren't meeting expectations, they often act out their frustration in the form of tantrums, aggression and defiance. Sometimes my child clients struggle to regulate their emotions and their impulses or have intrusive thoughts and obsessive behaviors. I can be useful to parents want to understand their children better and get help with these issues.
I work with children, teens and young adults who come for school problems, behavioral problems or mood disturbances including anxiety. Therapy can be helpful for dealing with these issues. When children aren't meeting expectations, they often act out their frustration in the form of tantrums, aggression and defiance. Sometimes my child clients struggle to regulate their emotions and their impulses or have intrusive thoughts and obsessive behaviors. I can be useful to parents want to understand their children better and get help with these issues.
(650) 749-1938 View (650) 749-1938
Photo of Larry Santiago, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larry Santiago
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94015
I have a particular expertise in working with clients who have diverse cultural backgrounds (e.g. ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation.) I also have a deep association working with artistic/creative type individuals and can address particular issues that arise being an artist confined to a conventional/mainstream worldview.
I have a particular expertise in working with clients who have diverse cultural backgrounds (e.g. ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation.) I also have a deep association working with artistic/creative type individuals and can address particular issues that arise being an artist confined to a conventional/mainstream worldview.
(925) 247-3396 View (925) 247-3396
Photo of Sheryl Pliskin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheryl Pliskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94063
Sheryl is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She is dedicated to helping adults, adolescents and families recover from trauma, loss and thrive while coping with chronic medical conditions. Trained in transpersonal psychology, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, she uses a holistic approach and is skilled in individualizing the care she offers. Serving in local nonprofit agencies and private practice, Sheryl has offered extensive support to foster and adoptive families and to individuals ready to deepen their personal relationships. Sheryl is able to help individuals reduce anxiety, improve their mood, restore hope, and reconnect with their community.
Sheryl is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She is dedicated to helping adults, adolescents and families recover from trauma, loss and thrive while coping with chronic medical conditions. Trained in transpersonal psychology, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, she uses a holistic approach and is skilled in individualizing the care she offers. Serving in local nonprofit agencies and private practice, Sheryl has offered extensive support to foster and adoptive families and to individuals ready to deepen their personal relationships. Sheryl is able to help individuals reduce anxiety, improve their mood, restore hope, and reconnect with their community.
(650) 779-5758 View (650) 779-5758
Photo of Jennifer Jimenez Wong, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Jimenez Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Mateo, CA 94403
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and overall, I have been practicing psychotherapy for 16 years, and have been in private practice for 8 years. I have extensive experience in working with children and families, and I also work with individuals. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, struggles with anger management, relationship issues, and domestic violence.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and overall, I have been practicing psychotherapy for 16 years, and have been in private practice for 8 years. I have extensive experience in working with children and families, and I also work with individuals. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, struggles with anger management, relationship issues, and domestic violence.
(415) 813-5193 View (415) 813-5193
Photo of Margaret Owen-Wilson, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Margaret Owen-Wilson
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
I am a culturally sensitive licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy and psychological testing. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space to help you and/or your child discuss and explore your current and previous stressors and work towards your own personal goals. I have a patient-centered, collaborative and strengths-based approach to treatment and I tailor each session based on your unique goals for treatment. I utilize a blend of relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches to treatment. I specialize in both individual (with children, adolescents and adults) and family therapy.
I am a culturally sensitive licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in psychotherapy and psychological testing. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space to help you and/or your child discuss and explore your current and previous stressors and work towards your own personal goals. I have a patient-centered, collaborative and strengths-based approach to treatment and I tailor each session based on your unique goals for treatment. I utilize a blend of relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches to treatment. I specialize in both individual (with children, adolescents and adults) and family therapy.
(650) 826-3947 View (650) 826-3947

Online Therapists

Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard - Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
With children, I enjoy using play therapy, art, and other techniques that allow my young clients to express themselves beyond words.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
With children, I enjoy using play therapy, art, and other techniques that allow my young clients to express themselves beyond words.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
(925) 212-4757 View (925) 212-4757
Photo of Katharina Klakus, PsyD, Psychologist
Katharina Klakus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate evidence-based modalities that specifically address a client's age, need, and treatment goals, including CBT, DBT, ACT, play, art, and music.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
I integrate evidence-based modalities that specifically address a client's age, need, and treatment goals, including CBT, DBT, ACT, play, art, and music.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
(847) 499-1427 View (847) 499-1427
Photo of Gerardo Joshua Salinas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerardo Joshua Salinas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95112
My Goal is to provide a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and more importantly helpful. I work with adults, teens, and children who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I believe that navigating these experiences feels better when we get to work through them with someone else. I offer Talk Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Art Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help resolve conflict, improve communication, and work to resolve trauma with a focus on early attachment and developmental needs. I also offer parent coaching to help with challenging behaviors at school or in the home.
My Goal is to provide a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and more importantly helpful. I work with adults, teens, and children who are experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I believe that navigating these experiences feels better when we get to work through them with someone else. I offer Talk Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Art Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to help resolve conflict, improve communication, and work to resolve trauma with a focus on early attachment and developmental needs. I also offer parent coaching to help with challenging behaviors at school or in the home.
(831) 263-4141 View (831) 263-4141
Photo of Iman Saint Jean, ASW, MSW, MEd, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Iman Saint Jean
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, MSW, MEd, EMDR
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
I work with clients to identify and mindfully navigate counterproductive thoughts and behavioral patterns, so they can manage and navigate life while building and maintaining mental, physical, and emotional well-being, using psychotherapy as well as evidence-based techniques grounded in CBT Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness.
Feeling stressed and anxious about life’s challenges? Struggling to find balance and peace in your everyday life? If you’re seeking to strengthen meaningful connections and personal growth you're in the right place. My name is Iman Saint Jean and I am an ADHD & EMDR trained Clinical Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting clients on their healing journey. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, enhance your well-being, or achieve personal growth, my approach blends psychological insight with compassionate support. Embark on a transformative journey in therapy and discover the power and resilience within.
I work with clients to identify and mindfully navigate counterproductive thoughts and behavioral patterns, so they can manage and navigate life while building and maintaining mental, physical, and emotional well-being, using psychotherapy as well as evidence-based techniques grounded in CBT Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Art Therapy, Mindfulness.
Feeling stressed and anxious about life’s challenges? Struggling to find balance and peace in your everyday life? If you’re seeking to strengthen meaningful connections and personal growth you're in the right place. My name is Iman Saint Jean and I am an ADHD & EMDR trained Clinical Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting clients on their healing journey. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, enhance your well-being, or achieve personal growth, my approach blends psychological insight with compassionate support. Embark on a transformative journey in therapy and discover the power and resilience within.
(510) 241-3943 View (510) 241-3943
Photo of Michelle Caron, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Caron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
Do you prefer talking in-person in my cozy Santa Cruz office? While there, we can have hands on modalities such as sand tray and art activities.
Do you find yourself constantly meeting the needs of others, leaving little time and energy for your own well-being? I'm here to support you on your path to a more balanced, happy life. Therapy can be a sanctuary where you are the priority and your needs are truly heard. Together we’ll develop the tools you need to navigate the complexities of work-life balance, tricky family dynamics and parenting / caretaking struggles. In our sessions we'll uncover your strengths, sharpen your communication skills, and give you the confidence to embrace life's twists and turns. You'll be empowered to discover the answers you hold within.
Do you prefer talking in-person in my cozy Santa Cruz office? While there, we can have hands on modalities such as sand tray and art activities.
Do you find yourself constantly meeting the needs of others, leaving little time and energy for your own well-being? I'm here to support you on your path to a more balanced, happy life. Therapy can be a sanctuary where you are the priority and your needs are truly heard. Together we’ll develop the tools you need to navigate the complexities of work-life balance, tricky family dynamics and parenting / caretaking struggles. In our sessions we'll uncover your strengths, sharpen your communication skills, and give you the confidence to embrace life's twists and turns. You'll be empowered to discover the answers you hold within.
(831) 603-3015 View (831) 603-3015
Photo of Heather Peterson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Thank you for considering me to take p art in your journey.
The search for a therapist can be difficult, so I am very glad you're here. I have over 15 years of experience in treating children and adolescents through an attachment and relational parent-child lens. I incorporate parenting support into each session in order to best support both you and your child. Much of my therapy with children also includes family therapy as I view parents and families as an integral p art of treatment. When working with adults, the work tends to be longer term. I use an attachment and values based lens to get to the core of what my clients are struggling with in order to create new, healthier patterns.
Thank you for considering me to take p art in your journey.
The search for a therapist can be difficult, so I am very glad you're here. I have over 15 years of experience in treating children and adolescents through an attachment and relational parent-child lens. I incorporate parenting support into each session in order to best support both you and your child. Much of my therapy with children also includes family therapy as I view parents and families as an integral p art of treatment. When working with adults, the work tends to be longer term. I use an attachment and values based lens to get to the core of what my clients are struggling with in order to create new, healthier patterns.
(279) 400-1551 View (279) 400-1551
Photo of Jessica Chesbro, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Chesbro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
(510) 405-3206 View (510) 405-3206
Photo of Brigitte Knight, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brigitte Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, CPP, EMDR, mindfulness & play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children 0-12, teens, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. I've provided therapeutic for 25+ years with families in the SF Bay area in English and Spanish, working closely with Latine communities.
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, CPP, EMDR, mindfulness & play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children 0-12, teens, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. I've provided therapeutic for 25+ years with families in the SF Bay area in English and Spanish, working closely with Latine communities.
(415) 366-3636 View (415) 366-3636
Photo of Patricia Graves, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Patricia Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
I have been interested in working with children & adolescents for most of my life. Helping them to improve their self-esteem, self-worth, & self-love. My training has focused on working with adolescents & young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, social isolation/social anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, suicidality, LGBTQIA+ identity and stress/anger. My approach to therapy is relational client centered. I use CBT, DBT, narrative, art, and play therapy, Gestalt Therapy, & I actively work with my clients to select the approach that is a good fit for them. I have a relaxed-humorous yet direct approach to working with clients.
I have been interested in working with children & adolescents for most of my life. Helping them to improve their self-esteem, self-worth, & self-love. My training has focused on working with adolescents & young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, social isolation/social anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD, suicidality, LGBTQIA+ identity and stress/anger. My approach to therapy is relational client centered. I use CBT, DBT, narrative, art, and play therapy, Gestalt Therapy, & I actively work with my clients to select the approach that is a good fit for them. I have a relaxed-humorous yet direct approach to working with clients.
(209) 666-1003 View (209) 666-1003
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, PhD, Psychologist
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
P art of Abbey (Blue Canoe)(Open Path Collective) is reserved for marginalized "uprooted" "traveling children" (UN) who cannot pay, rendered vulnerable by acute distress, abandonment, homelessness, complicated medical conditions (pediatric cancers; HIV/AIDS), gender-based harrassment/violence, commercial/sex trafficking, war trauma; forced displacement by oppressive cults/regimes.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
P art of Abbey (Blue Canoe)(Open Path Collective) is reserved for marginalized "uprooted" "traveling children" (UN) who cannot pay, rendered vulnerable by acute distress, abandonment, homelessness, complicated medical conditions (pediatric cancers; HIV/AIDS), gender-based harrassment/violence, commercial/sex trafficking, war trauma; forced displacement by oppressive cults/regimes.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260

See more therapy options for Hillsborough

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.