There are no results for therapists in Livermore

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in California below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cherie E Page, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Cherie E Page
Psychologist, PhD, MA, CEIB-MH, CRTI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
My passion is working with children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, neuroimmune disorders, and sensory processing disorders within the field of Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy and Animal-Assisted Therapy. I have 12 years of experience working with children and their families offering collaborative therapy. In conjunction to equine-facilitated psychotherapy, I work from an attachment-based model, blended with polyvagal theory, creative expressive art, and sensory integration therapy. Within my practice I focus on not only working with the child, but also their family to cultivate growth, change, and well-being.
My passion is working with children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, neuroimmune disorders, and sensory processing disorders within the field of Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy and Animal-Assisted Therapy. I have 12 years of experience working with children and their families offering collaborative therapy. In conjunction to equine-facilitated psychotherapy, I work from an attachment-based model, blended with polyvagal theory, creative expressive art, and sensory integration therapy. Within my practice I focus on not only working with the child, but also their family to cultivate growth, change, and well-being.
(408) 763-4296 View (408) 763-4296

Online Therapists

Photo of Trina Haselrig, PsyD, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Trina Haselrig, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I tend to use Mindfulness-based strategies and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) most often, as well as parenting support, psychoeducation, and play and art activities.
Hello and welcome to my page. I bring 20 years of experience and care in my work with children (ages 3-18) and their families. While there is a multitude of reasons why families seek support, I may be most helpful to families facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjustment-related stress, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. My education includes earning a BA and BS from UC Berkeley and MA and PsyD from Pepperdine University. I have additional training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
I tend to use Mindfulness-based strategies and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) most often, as well as parenting support, psychoeducation, and play and art activities.
Hello and welcome to my page. I bring 20 years of experience and care in my work with children (ages 3-18) and their families. While there is a multitude of reasons why families seek support, I may be most helpful to families facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjustment-related stress, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. My education includes earning a BA and BS from UC Berkeley and MA and PsyD from Pepperdine University. I have additional training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
(916) 507-2419 View (916) 507-2419
Photo of Gina Stanwood Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livermore, CA
Gina Stanwood Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napa, CA 94559
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I have over 20 years of clinical experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I work to tailor my approach to each individual's specific needs & concerns so that together we can create a path towards healing, empowerment and change. I believe that each person and age-group has different needs within a therapy setting. I utilize play, art, sand, and interactive talk therapy to create a safe, compassionate and dynamic approach to support change.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I have over 20 years of clinical experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I work to tailor my approach to each individual's specific needs & concerns so that together we can create a path towards healing, empowerment and change. I believe that each person and age-group has different needs within a therapy setting. I utilize play, art, sand, and interactive talk therapy to create a safe, compassionate and dynamic approach to support change.
(707) 412-8939 View (707) 412-8939
Photo of Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc., Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Wellspring Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
While talk therapy methods are a beginning point of the therapeutic practice, I incorporate mindful awareness, visualization, somatic exercises, story and collage art, and Jungian sand tray therapies to heal anxiety, trauma, and depression.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
While talk therapy methods are a beginning point of the therapeutic practice, I incorporate mindful awareness, visualization, somatic exercises, story and collage art, and Jungian sand tray therapies to heal anxiety, trauma, and depression.
I am the founder of Wellspring Psychological Services and supervising psychologist for this group private practice. I specialize in creating mind and body wholeness, helping to bring balance back into life. I have a passion for working with teens and young adults, particularly because the challenges of adolescence require a unique and strong client/therapist personality fit. Students in residency and couples in transition can take advantage of my 15 years of clinical expertise. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where each person is able to fully show up and create a more contented and peaceful life.
(831) 222-6388 View (831) 222-6388
Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Waitlist for new clients
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 Ashley Marlo-Monique Meeks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livermore, CA
Ashley Marlo-Monique Meeks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilroy, CA 95020
Waitlist for new clients
I like to use Art and Play Therapy which allows the clients to express themselves through creativity and meets them where they are at.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and young adults ranging in various ages. I worked as a Behavioral Therapist, and Developmental Specialist for 5 years prior to receiving my degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am passionate about helping families, children, and adolescents build positive communication and healthy boundaries. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, behavior needs (among many other things).
I like to use Art and Play Therapy which allows the clients to express themselves through creativity and meets them where they are at.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and young adults ranging in various ages. I worked as a Behavioral Therapist, and Developmental Specialist for 5 years prior to receiving my degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am passionate about helping families, children, and adolescents build positive communication and healthy boundaries. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, behavior needs (among many other things).
(408) 413-2823 View (408) 413-2823
Photo of Christine A. Volker, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Christine A. Volker
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95661
I see children, 3-12 using art therapy & play therapy.
Dr. Volker has over 25 years of clinical experience and will provide a safe, warm and healing environment for you and your loved ones. I believe in collaborating with you to select treatment goals that bring health, happiness and success to your life. Therapy can help when you are feeling sad, empty or hopeless; experiencing anxiety; feeling irritable and annoyed; experiencing conflict in a relationship; experiencing intrusive or upsetting memories; grieving the loss of a loved one; repeating familiar unsuccessful patterns; or adjusting to a transition in your life.
I see children, 3-12 using art therapy & play therapy.
Dr. Volker has over 25 years of clinical experience and will provide a safe, warm and healing environment for you and your loved ones. I believe in collaborating with you to select treatment goals that bring health, happiness and success to your life. Therapy can help when you are feeling sad, empty or hopeless; experiencing anxiety; feeling irritable and annoyed; experiencing conflict in a relationship; experiencing intrusive or upsetting memories; grieving the loss of a loved one; repeating familiar unsuccessful patterns; or adjusting to a transition in your life.
(916) 546-1178 View (916) 546-1178
Photo of Jennifer Myers Harrison, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Jennifer Myers Harrison
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, ATR-BC, DAAETS
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Harrison takes and evidence-based approach to treatment and utilizes such interventions as EMDR, TF-CBT and Art Therapy.
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
Harrison takes and evidence-based approach to treatment and utilizes such interventions as EMDR, TF-CBT and Art Therapy.
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
(650) 727-1757 View (650) 727-1757
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
We use art, shared storytelling, mindfulness, homemade journals, conversational & formal psychological assessment - and close, accurate listening to the immediate experience of children and the adults who are meaningful in their lives to gain clear, comprehensive, contextual understanding of their issues, neurodevelopmental status, & underlying contributing factors.
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.
We use art, shared storytelling, mindfulness, homemade journals, conversational & formal psychological assessment - and close, accurate listening to the immediate experience of children and the adults who are meaningful in their lives to gain clear, comprehensive, contextual understanding of their issues, neurodevelopmental status, & underlying contributing factors.
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
Photo of Brigitte Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Livermore, CA
Brigitte Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, 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. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, 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. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
(415) 366-3636 View (415) 366-3636
Photo of Blue Sky Counseling Center Pediatric Specialist, Counselor in Livermore, CA
Blue Sky Counseling Center Pediatric Specialist
Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rocklin, CA 95765
Waitlist for new clients
We offer sessions may include; music, motion songs, art, writing, play, literature, social skills, parent child communication, puppets, prize box.
Sometimes you just want to problem solve. Why didn't they tell us parenting was so hard! We understand that sometimes you need to just problem solve and learn coping tools. Maybe parent alignment is challenged by challenging kids. We partner with you to help mend important relationships, learn healthier coping skills, add positive strategies, and live without self harm We have experience in intensive hospital/outpatient step down DBT. We offer specialized experience in clinical child adolescent psychotherapy, family/college mental health, and education/medical collaboration. Neurodiversity welcome! Judgement free parenting zone!
We offer sessions may include; music, motion songs, art, writing, play, literature, social skills, parent child communication, puppets, prize box.
Sometimes you just want to problem solve. Why didn't they tell us parenting was so hard! We understand that sometimes you need to just problem solve and learn coping tools. Maybe parent alignment is challenged by challenging kids. We partner with you to help mend important relationships, learn healthier coping skills, add positive strategies, and live without self harm We have experience in intensive hospital/outpatient step down DBT. We offer specialized experience in clinical child adolescent psychotherapy, family/college mental health, and education/medical collaboration. Neurodiversity welcome! Judgement free parenting zone!
(916) 318-5720 View (916) 318-5720
Photo of Melanie Ernould, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Melanie Ernould
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have almost 20 years of experience working with wonderful children and young adults with difficult behaviors and struggles, and their families. I have been running my private practice for 6 years and, 4 years ago, started building a farm sanctuary where I hold children’s therapeutic camps and equine assisted and farm play therapy. I have a lot of unique training and education that sets me apart. I am a skilled big picture thinker and can help guide you and your family through the process, gaining clarity along the way. I am playful and gentle in my therapy, and easily connect with my clients, big and small, authentically.
I have almost 20 years of experience working with wonderful children and young adults with difficult behaviors and struggles, and their families. I have been running my private practice for 6 years and, 4 years ago, started building a farm sanctuary where I hold children’s therapeutic camps and equine assisted and farm play therapy. I have a lot of unique training and education that sets me apart. I am a skilled big picture thinker and can help guide you and your family through the process, gaining clarity along the way. I am playful and gentle in my therapy, and easily connect with my clients, big and small, authentically.
(916) 262-7229 View (916) 262-7229
Photo of Maggie Purdy, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Livermore, CA
Maggie Purdy
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, 116724
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Campbell, CA 95008  (Online Only)
I am here to help you navigate through the difficult, challenging, and even the happy times. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space for you as well as make you feel supported. I work with children of all ages, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience helping those who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, grief, ADHD, autism, Self-esteem/body issues, and much more. I look forward to meeting with you. Remember you are not alone, we will get through this together!
I am here to help you navigate through the difficult, challenging, and even the happy times. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space for you as well as make you feel supported. I work with children of all ages, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience helping those who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, grief, ADHD, autism, Self-esteem/body issues, and much more. I look forward to meeting with you. Remember you are not alone, we will get through this together!
(323) 675-2713 View (323) 675-2713
Photo of Michele Rouse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livermore, CA
Michele Rouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sonoma, CA 95476
Is constant fighting with your spouse or partner getting to you? Are conflicts with others becoming more frequent? Is parenting turning out to be more difficult than you thought it would be? Call me and discover how counseling can help you; 1) feel more connected in your relationships, 2) find relief from your emotional pain, and 3) learn skills to live at your full potential.
Is constant fighting with your spouse or partner getting to you? Are conflicts with others becoming more frequent? Is parenting turning out to be more difficult than you thought it would be? Call me and discover how counseling can help you; 1) feel more connected in your relationships, 2) find relief from your emotional pain, and 3) learn skills to live at your full potential.
(707) 877-6908 View (707) 877-6908
Photo of Sarah Asmussen, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Sarah Asmussen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
Dr. Asmussen is a clinical neuropsychologist offering therapy and assessment. Her focus in therapy is facilitating in-depth relationship work by using an integrated approach applying Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Couples-based treatments. By using integrated therapeutic techniques, Dr. Asmussen works closely with her clients to strengthen and deepen the core relationships in their lives, and also treats terminally ill patients and their family members. In addition to providing relationship support through clinical interventions, she provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations.
Dr. Asmussen is a clinical neuropsychologist offering therapy and assessment. Her focus in therapy is facilitating in-depth relationship work by using an integrated approach applying Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Couples-based treatments. By using integrated therapeutic techniques, Dr. Asmussen works closely with her clients to strengthen and deepen the core relationships in their lives, and also treats terminally ill patients and their family members. In addition to providing relationship support through clinical interventions, she provides comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations.
(669) 221-8363 View (669) 221-8363
Photo of Elizabeth L Black, Marriage & Family Therapist in Livermore, CA
Elizabeth L Black
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, CA 94526
From time to time, life stressors negatively impact our physical and mental well-being. You may find yourself dealing with complex challenges such as feeling stuck in unproductive patterns, grappling with inner conflicts, or facing barriers that hinder your personal and emotional development in life. Seeking help from a psychotherapist can profoundly contribute to better mental health and achieving a sense of balance, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
From time to time, life stressors negatively impact our physical and mental well-being. You may find yourself dealing with complex challenges such as feeling stuck in unproductive patterns, grappling with inner conflicts, or facing barriers that hinder your personal and emotional development in life. Seeking help from a psychotherapist can profoundly contribute to better mental health and achieving a sense of balance, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
(925) 290-6720 View (925) 290-6720
Photo of Andrea Hindes, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Andrea Hindes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Folsom and Sacramento area and have been licensed in California since 2007. I do short- and long-term individual therapy primarily with individuals in young- to middle-adulthood or late adolescence who are experiencing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as problems in interpersonal, family, work, and academic functioning. I do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy. I draw from a range of theoretical orientations to best understand someone and the influence of their life experiences on the ways they think, feel, and behave.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Folsom and Sacramento area and have been licensed in California since 2007. I do short- and long-term individual therapy primarily with individuals in young- to middle-adulthood or late adolescence who are experiencing a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as problems in interpersonal, family, work, and academic functioning. I do not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy. I draw from a range of theoretical orientations to best understand someone and the influence of their life experiences on the ways they think, feel, and behave.
(916) 238-1824 View (916) 238-1824
Photo of Courtney Meiers in Livermore, CA
Courtney Meiers
MS, LEP, EdS
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94065  (Online Only)
My clientele is ready and willing for change. Working together, we move through the stuckness, mud, or whatever is holding one back from their highest dream or just the ability to feel safe again. They want to climb out of their dark hole, but need a rope; I am here to offer that rope. With my teenage/pre-teen clients, the need is to improve their sense of adequacy or self-esteem, free themselves from anxiety or depression, and rebuild their relationship with a parent figure whether it be due to divorce or due to conflict. My clients like my out-of-the box techniques and strategies that motivate and create forward movement.
My clientele is ready and willing for change. Working together, we move through the stuckness, mud, or whatever is holding one back from their highest dream or just the ability to feel safe again. They want to climb out of their dark hole, but need a rope; I am here to offer that rope. With my teenage/pre-teen clients, the need is to improve their sense of adequacy or self-esteem, free themselves from anxiety or depression, and rebuild their relationship with a parent figure whether it be due to divorce or due to conflict. My clients like my out-of-the box techniques and strategies that motivate and create forward movement.
(650) 582-3353 View (650) 582-3353
Photo of TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , Counselor in Livermore, CA
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(925) 350-8130 View (925) 350-8130
Photo of Vesna Sturman, Psychologist in Livermore, CA
Vesna Sturman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, CA 94930  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is client-centered and research-based, meaning that I work with you to find which therapy style is most comfortable for you. Included are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, "tapping", and mindfulness. These have been proven to be effective treatments for both mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical problems like chronic pain. I also specialize in all forms of trauma. I will help to educate you about the different methods of therapy and the research behind why one method might be more beneficial than another for the issue(s) that brings you to therapy.
My approach to therapy is client-centered and research-based, meaning that I work with you to find which therapy style is most comfortable for you. Included are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, "tapping", and mindfulness. These have been proven to be effective treatments for both mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical problems like chronic pain. I also specialize in all forms of trauma. I will help to educate you about the different methods of therapy and the research behind why one method might be more beneficial than another for the issue(s) that brings you to therapy.
(415) 413-1077 View (415) 413-1077

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.