Art Therapy in Mifflin County, PA
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Pennsylvania below.Online Therapists
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Reading, PA 19601 (Online Only)
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
Madalyn Elizabeth Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
State College, PA 16801
I offer a unique contribution to therapy with a background in art therapy.
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
I offer a unique contribution to therapy with a background in art therapy.
Welcome! I am a licensed social worker with ten years’ experience working in mental health with a wide variety of populations. At this time I am accepting referrals for ages 14 and up. I primarily use a client-centered approach to treatment that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of individuals. I am certified in trauma-informed practice and specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based practices, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I have a special interest in anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and family dynamics.
While art is my specialty, I also integrate additional modalities that are based clients needs and preferences.
Much of my experience is in working with clients in areas of anxiety management, mood management, social skills development, self-esteem, identity, emotional regulation, executive functioning, behavioral transformation, and trauma. I have 10+years experience in these areas as well as working with clients on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. I believe in working with clients from a holistic viewpoint, attending to mind/body/spirit in order to support self exploration and understanding. We will work in some talk therapy techniques and possibly integrate other techniques.
While art is my specialty, I also integrate additional modalities that are based clients needs and preferences.
Much of my experience is in working with clients in areas of anxiety management, mood management, social skills development, self-esteem, identity, emotional regulation, executive functioning, behavioral transformation, and trauma. I have 10+years experience in these areas as well as working with clients on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. I believe in working with clients from a holistic viewpoint, attending to mind/body/spirit in order to support self exploration and understanding. We will work in some talk therapy techniques and possibly integrate other techniques.
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109 (Online Only)
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Melanie A Glassey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-P, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522 (Online Only)
Specializing in both talk therapy and art therapy, I believe in the power of art to express what words cannot.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by emotions? Whether it's navigating the complexities of childhood or the challenges of adult life, understanding and coping with feelings can be tough. I offer a compassionate and creative approach to therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
Specializing in both talk therapy and art therapy, I believe in the power of art to express what words cannot.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by emotions? Whether it's navigating the complexities of childhood or the challenges of adult life, understanding and coping with feelings can be tough. I offer a compassionate and creative approach to therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
Rachel A. Long Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Altoona, PA 16601
My integrative approach includes utilizing an array of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Expression and Emotionally Focused therapy (EFT/EFIT).
Hello! My name is Rachel A. Long, licensed professional counselor and provide outpatient mental health services. I hold a master’s degree in Human Services and in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It has been my pleasure to serve vulnerable populations within the human service field in Central PA for over 25 years. Currently, I work with teens (ages 13+), adults and families. My passion is to work with trauma and stress-related disorders, but I additionally work with issues stemming from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment issues, autism, PTSD, abuse, life transitions, and much more.
My integrative approach includes utilizing an array of therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Art Expression and Emotionally Focused therapy (EFT/EFIT).
Hello! My name is Rachel A. Long, licensed professional counselor and provide outpatient mental health services. I hold a master’s degree in Human Services and in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It has been my pleasure to serve vulnerable populations within the human service field in Central PA for over 25 years. Currently, I work with teens (ages 13+), adults and families. My passion is to work with trauma and stress-related disorders, but I additionally work with issues stemming from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adjustment issues, autism, PTSD, abuse, life transitions, and much more.
Brittany Flood
Counselor, ATR-BC , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlisle, PA 17013 (Online Only)
I always say to my people I meet with, that you do NOT have to be "good at art" to benefit from seeing an art therapist.
I help people express themselves through art and talk psychotherapy when words are not enough. I love working with a many different types of people, adjusting to new life changes, or coping with family / work life balance stressors. The people I meet with can expect to feel validated and supported. My approach to my clients is person centered, meeting them where they are at. Furthermore, Forcing people to "talk" is not what I am about, as we can use art to help explore and express your emotions and experiences when words are not enough.
I always say to my people I meet with, that you do NOT have to be "good at art" to benefit from seeing an art therapist.
I help people express themselves through art and talk psychotherapy when words are not enough. I love working with a many different types of people, adjusting to new life changes, or coping with family / work life balance stressors. The people I meet with can expect to feel validated and supported. My approach to my clients is person centered, meeting them where they are at. Furthermore, Forcing people to "talk" is not what I am about, as we can use art to help explore and express your emotions and experiences when words are not enough.
I am a Board Certified Art Therapist, but I use a variety of techniques to support you.
Do you ever find yourself stressed, sad, or frustrated more often than you would like? Do you want to learn ways to manage your symptoms and feelings? Do you question your reality and feel like you are not in the present moment? Do you feel 'off' or unmotivated, with little joy in life? I can provide a safe environment for you to process, learn, and grow without harsh judgements. I can teach you a variety of tools to manage what you are struggling with. I will meet you where you are, work with you to create progress, and then help keep you on track. I will listen with empathy and compassion.
I am a Board Certified Art Therapist, but I use a variety of techniques to support you.
Do you ever find yourself stressed, sad, or frustrated more often than you would like? Do you want to learn ways to manage your symptoms and feelings? Do you question your reality and feel like you are not in the present moment? Do you feel 'off' or unmotivated, with little joy in life? I can provide a safe environment for you to process, learn, and grow without harsh judgements. I can teach you a variety of tools to manage what you are struggling with. I will meet you where you are, work with you to create progress, and then help keep you on track. I will listen with empathy and compassion.
I use a biopsychosocial approach and employ a range of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art Therapy, Positive Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
Hey there, it’s wonderful to meet you! Are you seeking understanding, practical strategies, and support to feel empowered and more in control of your life? Are your goals to build resilience, improve your mental health, and find balance in your daily life? Together, we'll work on personal growth, using CBT and DBT to help you achieve emotional wellness and a more fulfilling life. Facing life’s challenges is a natural p art of the human experience, and I’m here to offer optimism and support as we navigate them together!
I use a biopsychosocial approach and employ a range of therapeutic techniques including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Art Therapy, Positive Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
Hey there, it’s wonderful to meet you! Are you seeking understanding, practical strategies, and support to feel empowered and more in control of your life? Are your goals to build resilience, improve your mental health, and find balance in your daily life? Together, we'll work on personal growth, using CBT and DBT to help you achieve emotional wellness and a more fulfilling life. Facing life’s challenges is a natural p art of the human experience, and I’m here to offer optimism and support as we navigate them together!
Sara Heinzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
I utilize the following theories: person centered, systems therapy/ parts work, parenting support, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma focused/ EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
I utilize the following theories: person centered, systems therapy/ parts work, parenting support, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma focused/ EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
We offer CBT, CPT, DBT, Drug and Alcohol/Recovery based, Educational support, Mindfulness, Reality therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, ADHD coaching and Medication Management to our clients.
At SBCF we provide all therapeutic services on our farm, on a hike, or in the barn, not in an office! We work with all ages, families, and couples. Our team consists of a Certified Art Therapist, Play Therapist, Drug and Alcohol Therapist, Education Specialist as well as BPD Specialist. We also offer EMDR, ADHD coaching, as well as, medication management via a psychiatrist. We also work with school districts and offer a day program for students. If you’re looking for a different approach to office based therapy give us a call. We look forward to working with you!
We offer CBT, CPT, DBT, Drug and Alcohol/Recovery based, Educational support, Mindfulness, Reality therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, ADHD coaching and Medication Management to our clients.
At SBCF we provide all therapeutic services on our farm, on a hike, or in the barn, not in an office! We work with all ages, families, and couples. Our team consists of a Certified Art Therapist, Play Therapist, Drug and Alcohol Therapist, Education Specialist as well as BPD Specialist. We also offer EMDR, ADHD coaching, as well as, medication management via a psychiatrist. We also work with school districts and offer a day program for students. If you’re looking for a different approach to office based therapy give us a call. We look forward to working with you!
Amanda Evans-Freet
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Camp Hill, PA 17011
No art experience is necessary to st art and drawing is never a requirement! I look forward to speaking with you and would be honored to embark with you on your healing journey.
When the unexpected occurs in life, sometimes it's hard to find the words to accurately express what you're experiencing. Traumatic events, grief, loss, stress, life altering events and transitions can become overwhelming. I strive daily to create a safe, compassionate and person centered therapy environment while using an unique approach that includes traditional talk therapy, Art Therapy and Trauma Focused interventions. I believe a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust, rapport and meeting you where you're at in your journey is a great place to st art.
No art experience is necessary to st art and drawing is never a requirement! I look forward to speaking with you and would be honored to embark with you on your healing journey.
When the unexpected occurs in life, sometimes it's hard to find the words to accurately express what you're experiencing. Traumatic events, grief, loss, stress, life altering events and transitions can become overwhelming. I strive daily to create a safe, compassionate and person centered therapy environment while using an unique approach that includes traditional talk therapy, Art Therapy and Trauma Focused interventions. I believe a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust, rapport and meeting you where you're at in your journey is a great place to st art.
Tranquility Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NADD-CC
Verified Verified
Auburn, PA 17922
Whenever possible, I incorporate animal and nature assisted interactions, art, or movement along with other evidence based practices to help clients facilitate change.
Are you feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed, out of control, or confused? Do you have problems in your relationship, or feel disconnected from others or the world as a whole? Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you uncertain of how to manage a child’s behaviors or have a child or teen who is struggling emotionally? Everyone can benefit from some support from time to time. I am here to help!
Whenever possible, I incorporate animal and nature assisted interactions, art, or movement along with other evidence based practices to help clients facilitate change.
Are you feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed, out of control, or confused? Do you have problems in your relationship, or feel disconnected from others or the world as a whole? Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you uncertain of how to manage a child’s behaviors or have a child or teen who is struggling emotionally? Everyone can benefit from some support from time to time. I am here to help!
I use a client-tailored mixture of art-making and psychotherapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychoanalysis, and more.
My ideal client is motivated to become empowered to make the changes they can realistically make to improve their life. They are willing to explore things they do not understand about themselves and/or those around them and thereby build self-awareness. Their issues fall under the categories of self-esteem, stress and/or mood management, behavioral issues, trauma and PTSD, domestic abuse/violence, grief, family conflict, LGBT+ interest topics, and spirituality and faith topics.
I use a client-tailored mixture of art-making and psychotherapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychoanalysis, and more.
My ideal client is motivated to become empowered to make the changes they can realistically make to improve their life. They are willing to explore things they do not understand about themselves and/or those around them and thereby build self-awareness. Their issues fall under the categories of self-esteem, stress and/or mood management, behavioral issues, trauma and PTSD, domestic abuse/violence, grief, family conflict, LGBT+ interest topics, and spirituality and faith topics.
With a wide range of experience working with LQBTQIA, neurodiverse and multicultural individuals and couples, I utilize an integrative approach to support a diverse population that allows me to meet everyone’s unique needs. I have specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and a certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and art therapy into my practice. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, disordered eating, ADHD, autism spectrum, and a variety of addiction.
With a wide range of experience working with LQBTQIA, neurodiverse and multicultural individuals and couples, I utilize an integrative approach to support a diverse population that allows me to meet everyone’s unique needs. I have specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and a certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. I also incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and art therapy into my practice. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, disordered eating, ADHD, autism spectrum, and a variety of addiction.
Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17401
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
Chad Briggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Love an anime or video game? Sign me up! Enjoy art and music? Tell me what medium and genre and we will work it into therapy.
Kids and teenagers encounter new challenges every day. School, sports, activities, and family dynamics can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression. They may feel overwhelmed and struggle to talk about what is going on. They may be scared, feel embarrassed, or feel unsure of who to talk about what they are feeling. You may have noticed changes in their behavior or mood as a result. I work with kids, teenagers, and families to identify and gain understanding of what has led to their struggles and collaboratively work on how to move forward. I bring a different energy to therapy.
Love an anime or video game? Sign me up! Enjoy art and music? Tell me what medium and genre and we will work it into therapy.
Kids and teenagers encounter new challenges every day. School, sports, activities, and family dynamics can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression. They may feel overwhelmed and struggle to talk about what is going on. They may be scared, feel embarrassed, or feel unsure of who to talk about what they are feeling. You may have noticed changes in their behavior or mood as a result. I work with kids, teenagers, and families to identify and gain understanding of what has led to their struggles and collaboratively work on how to move forward. I bring a different energy to therapy.
As an eclectic therapist, I use multiple techniques such as client centered, existential, trauma-focused, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy.
My ideal client would be someone who wants support and guidance to make sense of things that have happened to them in the past and who wants to invest in their overall healing and well-being to get more out of their current life. I welcome the opportunity to help clients who feel wounded and confused by mixed messages given by their family, school, churches, etc. as well as who may have lost their sense of direction and fulfillment in relationships, work, self-care, and faith. Clients would have a safe and nonjudgmental space to be themselves in order to reclaim who they want to be and to practice grace and self-compassion.
As an eclectic therapist, I use multiple techniques such as client centered, existential, trauma-focused, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy.
My ideal client would be someone who wants support and guidance to make sense of things that have happened to them in the past and who wants to invest in their overall healing and well-being to get more out of their current life. I welcome the opportunity to help clients who feel wounded and confused by mixed messages given by their family, school, churches, etc. as well as who may have lost their sense of direction and fulfillment in relationships, work, self-care, and faith. Clients would have a safe and nonjudgmental space to be themselves in order to reclaim who they want to be and to practice grace and self-compassion.
Attuned Counseling and Trauma Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mansfield, PA 16933
Our clinicians utilize several different evidenced based therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT methods, Art Therapy methods, Mindfulness Techniques, and Play Therapy methods.
Located in Athens and Mansfield Pennsylvania, Attuned Counseling and Trauma Therapy, LLC seeks to provide private therapeutic services to individuals in the community. We offer in person (Athens location only right now) or virtual appointments. We work with individuals with mental health concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, grief/loss, dissociation, and other life stressors. We serve all populations of the community, from young children to older adults.
Our clinicians utilize several different evidenced based therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT methods, Art Therapy methods, Mindfulness Techniques, and Play Therapy methods.
Located in Athens and Mansfield Pennsylvania, Attuned Counseling and Trauma Therapy, LLC seeks to provide private therapeutic services to individuals in the community. We offer in person (Athens location only right now) or virtual appointments. We work with individuals with mental health concerns such as trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, grief/loss, dissociation, and other life stressors. We serve all populations of the community, from young children to older adults.
Beyond traditional talk therapy, I can offer expressive arts therapy which incorporates art and/or writing to cultivate and promotes emotional expression, coping, and goal-setting.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Quigley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor/ Licensed Outpatient Psychotherapist. I am best suited to treat people ages 14 and older who are challenged with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, career, or simply looking to grow creatively. My goal is to support and assist you in overcoming obstacles that may be hindering you from living the life you’ve always wanted. My ideal clients are individuals seeking to heighten their level of self-awareness, personal growth, development and overall level of stability and contentment in their daily lives.
Beyond traditional talk therapy, I can offer expressive arts therapy which incorporates art and/or writing to cultivate and promotes emotional expression, coping, and goal-setting.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Quigley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor/ Licensed Outpatient Psychotherapist. I am best suited to treat people ages 14 and older who are challenged with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, career, or simply looking to grow creatively. My goal is to support and assist you in overcoming obstacles that may be hindering you from living the life you’ve always wanted. My ideal clients are individuals seeking to heighten their level of self-awareness, personal growth, development and overall level of stability and contentment in their daily lives.
See more therapy options for Mifflin County
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.