Art Therapy in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Celeste Classon, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Celeste Classon
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11207
I approach these issues using art and verbal therapy skills.
No matter where you are in your life, therapy is a way to alleviate stress and build clarity about your feelings. My goal is to collaborate with you to gain insight, build effective coping skills, and get in touch with your intuition. Whether you've had therapy before, or if you want to try something new, it can be difficult to start. I know many people find it hard to meet a therapist they connect with, but it is important you feel safe in the therapeutic space. I aim to support my clients in better understanding how to break out of cycles, overcome obstacles, and build greater self-assurance.
I approach these issues using art and verbal therapy skills.
No matter where you are in your life, therapy is a way to alleviate stress and build clarity about your feelings. My goal is to collaborate with you to gain insight, build effective coping skills, and get in touch with your intuition. Whether you've had therapy before, or if you want to try something new, it can be difficult to start. I know many people find it hard to meet a therapist they connect with, but it is important you feel safe in the therapeutic space. I aim to support my clients in better understanding how to break out of cycles, overcome obstacles, and build greater self-assurance.
(718) 865-2710 View (718) 865-2710
Photo of Courtney Ann Bouchard, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Courtney Ann Bouchard
Art Therapist, LCAT, MPS
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
I believe that we never lose our creative spark, and that with the right tools, it can be accessed and implemented as a healing force. With creative expression, we can imagine real life scenarios through multiple lenses, and look into the past and the future through different perspectives. No matter your age, art-making can be used to make sense of our emotional landscape, foster self-compassion and organize our thoughts, which can get jumbled in the hustle and bustle of life. I utilize an integrative approach that marries both Art Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed!
I believe that we never lose our creative spark, and that with the right tools, it can be accessed and implemented as a healing force. With creative expression, we can imagine real life scenarios through multiple lenses, and look into the past and the future through different perspectives. No matter your age, art-making can be used to make sense of our emotional landscape, foster self-compassion and organize our thoughts, which can get jumbled in the hustle and bustle of life. I utilize an integrative approach that marries both Art Therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed!
(718) 785-8267 View (718) 785-8267
Photo of Brittany Knapp, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Brittany Knapp
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
My practice Creative Art Therapy Place also offers Art Therapy, Dance Therapy, Drawing, Painting and Sound bath group sessions and a team of Creative Arts Therapists who accept individual clients.
Imagine a space where you can be totally and completely yourself without fear of judgment. Healing is a creative and personal process which requires us to use many tools. Together, we can navigate the art studio to express conflicted emotions, practice mindfulness, reflect and create insight into your inner world. I provide an integrative approach to therapy that marries both art therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed. Here we can traverse the challenges of daily life, promote positive change, increase self-esteem, destress and cultivate a creative outlet to process difficult experiences.
My practice Creative Art Therapy Place also offers Art Therapy, Dance Therapy, Drawing, Painting and Sound bath group sessions and a team of Creative Arts Therapists who accept individual clients.
Imagine a space where you can be totally and completely yourself without fear of judgment. Healing is a creative and personal process which requires us to use many tools. Together, we can navigate the art studio to express conflicted emotions, practice mindfulness, reflect and create insight into your inner world. I provide an integrative approach to therapy that marries both art therapy and traditional psychotherapy. No experience using art materials is needed. Here we can traverse the challenges of daily life, promote positive change, increase self-esteem, destress and cultivate a creative outlet to process difficult experiences.
(878) 313-2084 View (878) 313-2084
Photo of Ariel Argueso, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Ariel Argueso
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC, INHC, FDC, MPS
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11207
I am a Licensed/Board Certified Creative Art Psychotherapist and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and incorporate goal-setting, the creative process, health/wellness, and mindfulness in my practice.
The blend of coaching with traditional talk therapy, a safe space, and empathic guidance has the capacity to enhance one's ability to identify behavior patterns, work through difficult life transitions, and cultivate a genuine love for the self. In my practice, I encourage working towards personal growth, self-acceptance, and understanding. I believe that therapy should be a space and time for the client to feel comfortable expressing all thoughts and emotions that surface without feeling judged or alone. Emphasis on balance, positive thinking, and mindfulness in my treatment with clients creates a closer relationship with the self.
I am a Licensed/Board Certified Creative Art Psychotherapist and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and incorporate goal-setting, the creative process, health/wellness, and mindfulness in my practice.
The blend of coaching with traditional talk therapy, a safe space, and empathic guidance has the capacity to enhance one's ability to identify behavior patterns, work through difficult life transitions, and cultivate a genuine love for the self. In my practice, I encourage working towards personal growth, self-acceptance, and understanding. I believe that therapy should be a space and time for the client to feel comfortable expressing all thoughts and emotions that surface without feeling judged or alone. Emphasis on balance, positive thinking, and mindfulness in my treatment with clients creates a closer relationship with the self.
(347) 658-5591 View (347) 658-5591
Photo of Carrie Tillett-Saks, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Carrie Tillett-Saks
Art Therapist, LCAT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
Specializing in both talk and art therapy, I will assist you in navigating new life challenges, processing past or current experiences, and developing positive coping skills and a healthy sense of self.
I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing significant life changes such as traumatic experiences, grief and loss, transitioning to a new profession or location, and identity exploration, to name a few. Going through changes and transitions is hard, and can often bring up difficult or unwelcome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors such as depression, sadness, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
Specializing in both talk and art therapy, I will assist you in navigating new life challenges, processing past or current experiences, and developing positive coping skills and a healthy sense of self.
I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing significant life changes such as traumatic experiences, grief and loss, transitioning to a new profession or location, and identity exploration, to name a few. Going through changes and transitions is hard, and can often bring up difficult or unwelcome thoughts, feelings, or behaviors such as depression, sadness, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
(347) 454-7022 View (347) 454-7022
Photo of Georgie Landy, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Georgie Landy
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Through art making and verbal collaboration, I empower each of my clients with individualized treatment plans and emotional regulation tools.
Do you fantasize about goals and dreams but find it nearly impossible to achieve? Do you feel disconnected from the ones around you? Do you crave change in your life but feel trapped in the endless possibilities of how? Is there a particular stressor(s) hanging over your head like a dark cloud? You're not alone in seeking help. And you won't be alone in the process of healing.
Through art making and verbal collaboration, I empower each of my clients with individualized treatment plans and emotional regulation tools.
Do you fantasize about goals and dreams but find it nearly impossible to achieve? Do you feel disconnected from the ones around you? Do you crave change in your life but feel trapped in the endless possibilities of how? Is there a particular stressor(s) hanging over your head like a dark cloud? You're not alone in seeking help. And you won't be alone in the process of healing.
(347) 464-0237 View (347) 464-0237
Photo of Natalie Schrape, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Natalie Schrape
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR, MS
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
With 25 years of experience, I utilize talk and art therapy to help you find your voice whether it be about a current situation that is causing you distress or something from your past or future. We hold on to thoughts, behaviors and feelings that seem too overwhelming to share with others. We fear vulnerability. We run from difficult feelings/thoughts. We feel ashamed of our emotional "baggage". Then, we try to hide under a mask because of shame, fear, and anxiety. But hiding in shame only makes us feel isolated, empty and experience self hatred. We become disconnected from ourselves, others and feel painfully lonely.
With 25 years of experience, I utilize talk and art therapy to help you find your voice whether it be about a current situation that is causing you distress or something from your past or future. We hold on to thoughts, behaviors and feelings that seem too overwhelming to share with others. We fear vulnerability. We run from difficult feelings/thoughts. We feel ashamed of our emotional "baggage". Then, we try to hide under a mask because of shame, fear, and anxiety. But hiding in shame only makes us feel isolated, empty and experience self hatred. We become disconnected from ourselves, others and feel painfully lonely.
(929) 323-4730 View (929) 323-4730
Photo of Josh Millrod, Creative Arts Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Josh Millrod
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, MT-BC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
We'll do this using a mixture of talking, guided imagery, music, art and meditative breathing.
Hello, time traveler. I'm glad you made it here. I know there's a million other places you could be right now so I want to help you take a second to be here with me. Not at work tomorrow, not in the climate apocalypse and definitely not reliving that time in 5th grade when your yogurt exploded in your backpack because someone threw it down the street at the bus stop as the bus arrived. Ok. Now, that you're here, take a breath. Take another one. Feel the air flow in and out. Let that nagging voice that's pulling you from being here know that you hear it, and ask it to step aside for 30 seconds so that you can finish reading this.
We'll do this using a mixture of talking, guided imagery, music, art and meditative breathing.
Hello, time traveler. I'm glad you made it here. I know there's a million other places you could be right now so I want to help you take a second to be here with me. Not at work tomorrow, not in the climate apocalypse and definitely not reliving that time in 5th grade when your yogurt exploded in your backpack because someone threw it down the street at the bus stop as the bus arrived. Ok. Now, that you're here, take a breath. Take another one. Feel the air flow in and out. Let that nagging voice that's pulling you from being here know that you hear it, and ask it to step aside for 30 seconds so that you can finish reading this.
(631) 364-0398 View (631) 364-0398
Photo of Jenny Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Jenny Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
I make use of mindfulness and art therapy tools to build self awareness and a resilience skillset for my clients.
Hi, I'm Jenny. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed or deeply concerned about life situations, change, or a loss. Maybe you don’t even know how you feel but know it is time to reach out for help. Maybe you are missing something in the past or feeling not up to the future. You are not alone in this. These moments are some of the most important in a life, and it is easier to face them with support. That is where therapy can start. “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rogers.
I make use of mindfulness and art therapy tools to build self awareness and a resilience skillset for my clients.
Hi, I'm Jenny. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed or deeply concerned about life situations, change, or a loss. Maybe you don’t even know how you feel but know it is time to reach out for help. Maybe you are missing something in the past or feeling not up to the future. You are not alone in this. These moments are some of the most important in a life, and it is easier to face them with support. That is where therapy can start. “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” -Carl Rogers.
(347) 657-6692 View (347) 657-6692
Photo of Lauren Dana Smith, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Lauren Dana Smith
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, LPAT, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
I offer talk psychotherapy, art therapy and wellness coaching for adults seeking to make proactive changes in therapy to experience a better quality of life. I believe that people are experts in their own lives and that we develop unique coping strategies over the years to help us navigate important relationships and experiences. I work with people to better understand themselves and to grow greater self-compassion and empathy. I view therapy as an important aspect of personal self-care and wellness. I assist people in finding a healthier work-life balance and enjoy more satisfying life, work and relationships.
I offer talk psychotherapy, art therapy and wellness coaching for adults seeking to make proactive changes in therapy to experience a better quality of life. I believe that people are experts in their own lives and that we develop unique coping strategies over the years to help us navigate important relationships and experiences. I work with people to better understand themselves and to grow greater self-compassion and empathy. I view therapy as an important aspect of personal self-care and wellness. I assist people in finding a healthier work-life balance and enjoy more satisfying life, work and relationships.
(929) 339-1742 View (929) 339-1742
Photo of Lili Schulder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Lili Schulder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
With my background in experimental art and music, I hold a deep appreciation for asking questions and an understanding of eclectic forms of expression.
Sometimes life has us so overwhelmed that words evade us. We can be drenched in emotion, or we can be numb to it all. Our struggles manifest uniquely according to the biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual elements in our lives. We might feel lost and alone, but it is important to remember that we are not. I wish to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you, in which we can explore together. We may attempt to connect words with feelings, or we may let silence hold its power; the conscious and the unconscious are both invited. Through our relationship we may discover new pathways of resilience.
With my background in experimental art and music, I hold a deep appreciation for asking questions and an understanding of eclectic forms of expression.
Sometimes life has us so overwhelmed that words evade us. We can be drenched in emotion, or we can be numb to it all. Our struggles manifest uniquely according to the biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual elements in our lives. We might feel lost and alone, but it is important to remember that we are not. I wish to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you, in which we can explore together. We may attempt to connect words with feelings, or we may let silence hold its power; the conscious and the unconscious are both invited. Through our relationship we may discover new pathways of resilience.
(646) 849-3591 View (646) 849-3591
Photo of Emily Hughes, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Emily Hughes
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
Specializing in anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions, I integrate evidence-based practices (CBT), mindfulness, and art therapy.
Is anxiety hindering your ability to fully embrace life? Feeling trapped and uncertain can leave you questioning your true identity and interfere with your most valued relationships and goals. Within you, there are aspirations and untapped potential awaiting discovery. You yearn for clarity, empowerment, and the confidence to make decisions without constant self-doubt. You're searching for a therapist you connect with to help better understand your anxiety, uncover its underlying causes, and equip you with practical tools and techniques to manage its impact on your life and develop the best version of yourself.
Specializing in anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions, I integrate evidence-based practices (CBT), mindfulness, and art therapy.
Is anxiety hindering your ability to fully embrace life? Feeling trapped and uncertain can leave you questioning your true identity and interfere with your most valued relationships and goals. Within you, there are aspirations and untapped potential awaiting discovery. You yearn for clarity, empowerment, and the confidence to make decisions without constant self-doubt. You're searching for a therapist you connect with to help better understand your anxiety, uncover its underlying causes, and equip you with practical tools and techniques to manage its impact on your life and develop the best version of yourself.
(929) 538-3539 View (929) 538-3539
Photo of Elizabeth London, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Elizabeth London
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
However, I have found that incorporating art, somatic awareness, mindfulness practices and dream exploration can be powerful ways to deepen the process, integrate unresolved trauma, and develop new insights and resources for living in alignment with your most authentic self.
I approach therapy from the perspective that healing comes through the caring and dynamic engagement created between two people. Our time together will be a collaboration that encourages mutual presence, relatedness and commitment. Research confirms the importance of this. While no specific technique is consistently effective in eliciting change, certain therapists who bring a particular quality to their work often are. I believe I am such a therapist and my clients consistently report feeling met, nurtured, and empowered by the work we do together.
However, I have found that incorporating art, somatic awareness, mindfulness practices and dream exploration can be powerful ways to deepen the process, integrate unresolved trauma, and develop new insights and resources for living in alignment with your most authentic self.
I approach therapy from the perspective that healing comes through the caring and dynamic engagement created between two people. Our time together will be a collaboration that encourages mutual presence, relatedness and commitment. Research confirms the importance of this. While no specific technique is consistently effective in eliciting change, certain therapists who bring a particular quality to their work often are. I believe I am such a therapist and my clients consistently report feeling met, nurtured, and empowered by the work we do together.
(646) 461-7360 View (646) 461-7360
Photo of Jeremy Martin in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Jeremy Martin
LCAT, LP
Verified Verified
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
I use art therapy, psychotherapy, mindfulness and motivational interviewing.
I am a compassionate and client-centered LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist striving to help clients feel safe to explore all aspects of themselves. I have five years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, supporting a wide range of needs including anxiety, trauma, depression, illness, and identity development. As a creative arts therapist, I have collaborated with clients by tailoring interventions to their unique needs, and has witnessed them make meaningful connections to their artwork, developing new skills in the process.
I use art therapy, psychotherapy, mindfulness and motivational interviewing.
I am a compassionate and client-centered LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist striving to help clients feel safe to explore all aspects of themselves. I have five years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, supporting a wide range of needs including anxiety, trauma, depression, illness, and identity development. As a creative arts therapist, I have collaborated with clients by tailoring interventions to their unique needs, and has witnessed them make meaningful connections to their artwork, developing new skills in the process.
(347) 514-9636 View (347) 514-9636
Photo of Nala C. Turner, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Nala C. Turner
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
My role as a therapist is to facilitate Self exploration and sublimative integration, utilizing both art and talk therapy depending on your individual needs.
I provide supportive, strength-based therapy for individuals managing various mental health challenges. Whether you have specific goals or are embarking on your therapeutic journey for the first time, I will support you as you learn more about yourself and instigate exploration of the world around you. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, holding a culturally inclusive space as my top priority. I hold specialties in working with Black, brown and multi-ethnic individuals experiencing depression, anxiety/panic, complex trauma, and relationship or social transitions.
My role as a therapist is to facilitate Self exploration and sublimative integration, utilizing both art and talk therapy depending on your individual needs.
I provide supportive, strength-based therapy for individuals managing various mental health challenges. Whether you have specific goals or are embarking on your therapeutic journey for the first time, I will support you as you learn more about yourself and instigate exploration of the world around you. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life, holding a culturally inclusive space as my top priority. I hold specialties in working with Black, brown and multi-ethnic individuals experiencing depression, anxiety/panic, complex trauma, and relationship or social transitions.
(929) 362-6936 View (929) 362-6936
Photo of Miriam Kagan, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Miriam Kagan
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach; to allow the most growth to occur for you to reach your goals. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute.
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach; to allow the most growth to occur for you to reach your goals. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute.
(347) 923-6350 View (347) 923-6350
Photo of Alexandra A Roldan, Counselor in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Alexandra A Roldan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237
When life becomes overwhelming it is important to know that you are not alone. As a licensed mental health counselor, I will support you through those times when you need a caring professional to help you gain perspective and provide you with the tools you need to find balance and move forward.
When life becomes overwhelming it is important to know that you are not alone. As a licensed mental health counselor, I will support you through those times when you need a caring professional to help you gain perspective and provide you with the tools you need to find balance and move forward.
(347) 983-9397 View (347) 983-9397
Photo of Victoria Mancini, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Victoria Mancini
Art Therapist, LCAT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11233  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Victoria Mancini, a Psychotherapist & Creative Arts Therapist serving the state of New York through telehealth. A collaborative relationship is the foundation of my practice. Therapy can be challenging enough already! I want you to feel comfortable to “come as you are” and leave feeling supported & heard. It is my goal for you to better understand your feelings and how they affect your body, to develop the confidence to speak your truth, advocate for yourself and find the joy in being your own unique & authentic self
Hi! I’m Victoria Mancini, a Psychotherapist & Creative Arts Therapist serving the state of New York through telehealth. A collaborative relationship is the foundation of my practice. Therapy can be challenging enough already! I want you to feel comfortable to “come as you are” and leave feeling supported & heard. It is my goal for you to better understand your feelings and how they affect your body, to develop the confidence to speak your truth, advocate for yourself and find the joy in being your own unique & authentic self
(347) 941-1452 View (347) 941-1452
Photo of Katherine Judith Sanchez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Katherine Judith Sanchez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with depression, trauma, adjustments, and relationship issues. By embracing cultural nuances and sensitivities, I create a nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges effectively. Together, we'll develop personalized strategies to promote healing, resilience, and meaningful connections. Take the first step towards transformative growth.
I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with depression, trauma, adjustments, and relationship issues. By embracing cultural nuances and sensitivities, I create a nurturing environment where clients can explore their challenges effectively. Together, we'll develop personalized strategies to promote healing, resilience, and meaningful connections. Take the first step towards transformative growth.
(718) 957-2356 View (718) 957-2356
Photo of Leila Zhanybekova, Art Therapist in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Leila Zhanybekova
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC, MPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with acculturation, racial and cultural trauma, gender identity and sexuality, depression, anxiety, and life transition. Together, we collaborate to explore your current struggles, look into your relationships, process your experiences, unpack intergenerational and racial trauma, identify patterns of thought and behavior, and develop insight into your life's path. In session, we build a warm, humorous, and authentic relationship to help you embody your values, grow more connected to yourself and others, build compassion for your emotions, and find a way forward from where you are right now.
I specialize in working with acculturation, racial and cultural trauma, gender identity and sexuality, depression, anxiety, and life transition. Together, we collaborate to explore your current struggles, look into your relationships, process your experiences, unpack intergenerational and racial trauma, identify patterns of thought and behavior, and develop insight into your life's path. In session, we build a warm, humorous, and authentic relationship to help you embody your values, grow more connected to yourself and others, build compassion for your emotions, and find a way forward from where you are right now.
(718) 865-3943 View (718) 865-3943

See more therapy options for Bushwick, Brooklyn

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.