Art Therapy in Oakland, CA
Mara K Martínez-Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
My main modalities are: herbalism, ecotherapy (and virtual), narrative therapy, art therapy and liberation psychology.
I live my life in accordance to seasons and cycles. I am a pro at change, finding grounding in new environments, connection when it is possible, home in many ways. I am comfortable in the in-between space, the messy, the both/and. Together, we can strengthen these skills of knowing who you are, so that you show up in a way you can stand on everywhere you go. I specialize in working with: multiracial identity, re-Indigenizing, queer folks, sex workers, non-monogamy, raising kids in different parenting structures, creative industry/freelance workers, ancestral trauma, inviting Spirit in and navigating big conflict.
My main modalities are: herbalism, ecotherapy (and virtual), narrative therapy, art therapy and liberation psychology.
I live my life in accordance to seasons and cycles. I am a pro at change, finding grounding in new environments, connection when it is possible, home in many ways. I am comfortable in the in-between space, the messy, the both/and. Together, we can strengthen these skills of knowing who you are, so that you show up in a way you can stand on everywhere you go. I specialize in working with: multiracial identity, re-Indigenizing, queer folks, sex workers, non-monogamy, raising kids in different parenting structures, creative industry/freelance workers, ancestral trauma, inviting Spirit in and navigating big conflict.
I vary in my approach depending on a client's specific needs and ways of being, always allowing space to be creative in our work together, whether it be through language, art, music, or new perspectives!.
With my background in Expressive Arts Therapy, I see the human experience to be a creative and ever changing journey. Change, while natural, can be both challenging and present opportunities for growth. It invites us to release outdated beliefs, perspectives, or adaptive behaviors that no longer serve us. It can also encourage us to explore our desires and needs, who we are in relation to ourselves and others, and why change may feel scary or even impossible. I am here to be with you through past and current traumas, grief, challenges, and also celebrate your growth and accomplishments.
I vary in my approach depending on a client's specific needs and ways of being, always allowing space to be creative in our work together, whether it be through language, art, music, or new perspectives!.
With my background in Expressive Arts Therapy, I see the human experience to be a creative and ever changing journey. Change, while natural, can be both challenging and present opportunities for growth. It invites us to release outdated beliefs, perspectives, or adaptive behaviors that no longer serve us. It can also encourage us to explore our desires and needs, who we are in relation to ourselves and others, and why change may feel scary or even impossible. I am here to be with you through past and current traumas, grief, challenges, and also celebrate your growth and accomplishments.
I provide trauma-informed care, using a relational and attachment-based approach, integrating art therapeutic processes when useful.
Has something in your life become too much to bear? If you’re feeling lonely, alienated, confused about your relationships, hurt, angry, or feeling unheard; if you’re finding the stress of parenting overwhelming, or feeling defeated by cycles of conflict, I'd like to help you. I work with individuals, couples and families wounded by their family systems, who have experienced trauma or abuse, have struggled with a narcissistic parent or partner, or have been negatively impacted by relationships with their in-laws. I passionately believe that with the right help, you can move from suffering and uncertainty to clarity and empowerment.
I provide trauma-informed care, using a relational and attachment-based approach, integrating art therapeutic processes when useful.
Has something in your life become too much to bear? If you’re feeling lonely, alienated, confused about your relationships, hurt, angry, or feeling unheard; if you’re finding the stress of parenting overwhelming, or feeling defeated by cycles of conflict, I'd like to help you. I work with individuals, couples and families wounded by their family systems, who have experienced trauma or abuse, have struggled with a narcissistic parent or partner, or have been negatively impacted by relationships with their in-laws. I passionately believe that with the right help, you can move from suffering and uncertainty to clarity and empowerment.
I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art.
I specialize in helping people reset to a secure attachment style. My other main areas of focus include addiction, recovery from narcissistic and oppression-based abuse, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (with extensive experience supporting people navigating medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long COVID).
I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art.
I specialize in helping people reset to a secure attachment style. My other main areas of focus include addiction, recovery from narcissistic and oppression-based abuse, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (with extensive experience supporting people navigating medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long COVID).
As a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P), I hold a Master’s degree in Creative Arts Therapy.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or the world around you?
Together, we can explore the challenges you’re facing and reconnect you to your innate creativity. I specialize in using nature-based expressive arts and a holistic, integrative approach to help you navigate emotional obstacles with greater ease and clarity. Whether you're dealing with grief, stress, anxiety, or life transitions, my aim is to help you find deeper understanding, healing, and balance. As a compassionate, empathic therapist, I provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and express your truth.
As a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-P), I hold a Master’s degree in Creative Arts Therapy.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or the world around you?
Together, we can explore the challenges you’re facing and reconnect you to your innate creativity. I specialize in using nature-based expressive arts and a holistic, integrative approach to help you navigate emotional obstacles with greater ease and clarity. Whether you're dealing with grief, stress, anxiety, or life transitions, my aim is to help you find deeper understanding, healing, and balance. As a compassionate, empathic therapist, I provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore and express your truth.
What I stand for: Relationships are a collaborative art and practice.
What I believe: Relationships are unique and come in countless shapes and sizes over time. Right now, relationships are already happening and changing in your life every day. Love is available in ourselves when we choose it, and choosing love in ourselves brings more love into our relationships. Yes, all relationships shift and change, and at the same time, love can regenerate again and again in the most mysterious moments and forms if we stay open and curious.
What I stand for: Relationships are a collaborative art and practice.
What I believe: Relationships are unique and come in countless shapes and sizes over time. Right now, relationships are already happening and changing in your life every day. Love is available in ourselves when we choose it, and choosing love in ourselves brings more love into our relationships. Yes, all relationships shift and change, and at the same time, love can regenerate again and again in the most mysterious moments and forms if we stay open and curious.
As an Art Therapist, using a trauma-informed approach, we will work collaboratively and creatively to meet your goals.
As an Art Therapist, I offer client-centered creative interventions based in active art making and mindfulness as well as CBT, DBT, and ACT. As a black woman, I am passionate about liberated practices and the destigmatization of mental health in marginalized communities. I am dedicated to a holistic approach to wellness and personal creative expression.
As an Art Therapist, using a trauma-informed approach, we will work collaboratively and creatively to meet your goals.
As an Art Therapist, I offer client-centered creative interventions based in active art making and mindfulness as well as CBT, DBT, and ACT. As a black woman, I am passionate about liberated practices and the destigmatization of mental health in marginalized communities. I am dedicated to a holistic approach to wellness and personal creative expression.
I have a background in visual art, improv, and theater, all of which led me to become a psychotherapist and all of which inform my work in every way.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
I have a background in visual art, improv, and theater, all of which led me to become a psychotherapist and all of which inform my work in every way.
Welcome! I specialize in working with folx who are LGBTQA+ and who are struggling with anxiety, depression and/or a history of trauma. I love supporting those who are either making the transition from monogamy to non-monogamy or need support in their existing CMN relationships. I'm also kink and BDSM competent and enjoy helping others heal shame and foster empowerment in their unique sexuality. I think of psychotherapy as a necessary form of social activism toward a larger goal of equity for people of all races, genders, sexual/relational orientations, levels of ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
(I also incorporate art and play therapy for my younger clients).
The challenges of growing up in today's rapidly changing society are enormous. Children and adolescents need to be equipped with skills for survival and growth that were never before imagined. Some of the more common issues I help my young clients with include anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide ideation, perfectionism, self confidence, challenging peer relationships, social anxiety and difficult family dynamics. I also work with parents offering them guidance and support.
(I also incorporate art and play therapy for my younger clients).
The challenges of growing up in today's rapidly changing society are enormous. Children and adolescents need to be equipped with skills for survival and growth that were never before imagined. Some of the more common issues I help my young clients with include anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicide ideation, perfectionism, self confidence, challenging peer relationships, social anxiety and difficult family dynamics. I also work with parents offering them guidance and support.
Revi Hope Airborne-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As an expressive arts therapist, we can work creatively, using art, music, movement, or being in nature together.
Therapy is a space you carve out with me to reconnect - with yourself, your goals, your life’s meaning, your passion, your creativity, your spiritual path. We all struggle with difficult things at times; they pull us away from who we want to be, or the path we intend to walk in life. I believe relationships are the most important healers we have in our lives – starting with your relationship with yourself! Extending to all your other important and beloved relationships - with family, friends, community, planet, and spirit. No matter where you are, your journey to self-empowerment and joy begins Right Here. I will be there with you.
As an expressive arts therapist, we can work creatively, using art, music, movement, or being in nature together.
Therapy is a space you carve out with me to reconnect - with yourself, your goals, your life’s meaning, your passion, your creativity, your spiritual path. We all struggle with difficult things at times; they pull us away from who we want to be, or the path we intend to walk in life. I believe relationships are the most important healers we have in our lives – starting with your relationship with yourself! Extending to all your other important and beloved relationships - with family, friends, community, planet, and spirit. No matter where you are, your journey to self-empowerment and joy begins Right Here. I will be there with you.
Fiona Ruddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
I offer my clients a variety of tools incorporating nature, art, movement and mindfulness exercises to gain insight and increase awareness of mind and body connection to empower them to reduce anxiety and feel more at ease, calm and present moment awareness.
Are you finding yourself struggling to adapt to a change or transition in your life? You may be finding yourself overthinking, anxious, overwhelmed and/or feeling stuck. You may be having trouble sleeping, feeling sad, hopeless, insecure or tired of that negative voice in your head that seems to hold you back. You want to feel more confident, calm, clear and positive about the future. You want things to be different, get on a new path, but you aren't sure how to get there.
I offer my clients a variety of tools incorporating nature, art, movement and mindfulness exercises to gain insight and increase awareness of mind and body connection to empower them to reduce anxiety and feel more at ease, calm and present moment awareness.
Are you finding yourself struggling to adapt to a change or transition in your life? You may be finding yourself overthinking, anxious, overwhelmed and/or feeling stuck. You may be having trouble sleeping, feeling sad, hopeless, insecure or tired of that negative voice in your head that seems to hold you back. You want to feel more confident, calm, clear and positive about the future. You want things to be different, get on a new path, but you aren't sure how to get there.
Meet Our Art Therapy
Kruti Patel // South Asian Art Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I also integrate art therapy and somatic approaches to build a deep awareness and learn supportive skills.
As a South Asian American and child of immigrants, I understand the challenges of navigating mental health stigma within our family and community. A supportive therapeutic relationship can offer an opportunity to explore overwhelming feelings, stress, relationship struggles and life experiences. Being able to unpack your experience can bring relief and restoration to a more grounded, confident self. You may be struggling with how to develop your own voice and identity, within your relationship with your family, or a pregnant woman, navigating the medical system, or trying to figure out how to date as a child of immigrants.
I also integrate art therapy and somatic approaches to build a deep awareness and learn supportive skills.
As a South Asian American and child of immigrants, I understand the challenges of navigating mental health stigma within our family and community. A supportive therapeutic relationship can offer an opportunity to explore overwhelming feelings, stress, relationship struggles and life experiences. Being able to unpack your experience can bring relief and restoration to a more grounded, confident self. You may be struggling with how to develop your own voice and identity, within your relationship with your family, or a pregnant woman, navigating the medical system, or trying to figure out how to date as a child of immigrants.
Cheryl Feldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Art can access thoughts and feelings we are not aware of, through open expression and not about "being the perfect artist".
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
Art can access thoughts and feelings we are not aware of, through open expression and not about "being the perfect artist".
Children and teens are more aware of their own internal states and the world around them than ever before, while the family unit takes on more stress. This combination can create anxiety, depression, acting out behaviors, confusion, and educational struggles for many. Through a strength-based perspective I focus on communication, relationships, boundaries, and self-care. I work with youth (and families) to explore their patterns of interactions with others and encourage self-awareness and growth in these areas. Developing a relationship with a child or teen takes time and care, both of which I have done for nearly twenty years.
Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
Exploring and implementing strategies and skills keeps therapy practical, grounded and effective. I incorporate recovery-based principals and a harm reduction approach. I know that all change is incremental and happens through persistence. Clients express appreciation for my humor, the accuracy of my reflections, and the ways that I honor diversity.
Some people choose to make art as part of most meetings; others prefer to mostly talk.
Exploring and implementing strategies and skills keeps therapy practical, grounded and effective. I incorporate recovery-based principals and a harm reduction approach. I know that all change is incremental and happens through persistence. Clients express appreciation for my humor, the accuracy of my reflections, and the ways that I honor diversity.
My offerings combine clinical counseling, ritual, art making, myth & storytelling, movement & dance, Tarot, somatic exploration & dreamwork as pathways for healing & doorways to the wild unconscious.
At times, we've all struggled with feelings of unworthiness, isolation, fear, grief & disconnection. It may be from the life you’ve created, relationships you’ve chosen, secret desires you’ve rejected, or parts of yourself that you have abandoned to please others. My clients are people who are searching for their authentic voice, yearn to reconnect to their intuition & ancestral wisdom, & create a sense of home in their bodies and lives. You have arrived here; standing at a crossroads, surveying the distance between the life you have & the life you are longing for; waiting to weave a story, a world, a life that feels more true.
My offerings combine clinical counseling, ritual, art making, myth & storytelling, movement & dance, Tarot, somatic exploration & dreamwork as pathways for healing & doorways to the wild unconscious.
At times, we've all struggled with feelings of unworthiness, isolation, fear, grief & disconnection. It may be from the life you’ve created, relationships you’ve chosen, secret desires you’ve rejected, or parts of yourself that you have abandoned to please others. My clients are people who are searching for their authentic voice, yearn to reconnect to their intuition & ancestral wisdom, & create a sense of home in their bodies and lives. You have arrived here; standing at a crossroads, surveying the distance between the life you have & the life you are longing for; waiting to weave a story, a world, a life that feels more true.
Trained in Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration, Art Therapy, Maps trainee April 2022, EMDR, practicing since 2015.
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
Trained in Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration, Art Therapy, Maps trainee April 2022, EMDR, practicing since 2015.
Are you searching for a therapist to help you integrate your insights into change in your day-to-day life? Do you need a space filled with wonder, openness, & curiosity where you can safely explore your inner world? Perhaps you want to talk about the psychedelic state you experienced during Ketamine Therapy or other 'non-ordinary' states like meditation but feel afraid your therapist won’t get it or know how to make meaning with you? Do you wonder if it’s possible to find someone who will honor the impact of your experiences, your story, and your path in a safe, co-creative relationship?
Gwen J Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
As a PhD in Art Therapy and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I infuse art therapy into my work with my clients only if it appears they would benefit.
My clients are most often dealing with communication concerns, issues of intimacy and complications related to life changes. When traumatic events impact their daily lives, they may seek assistance.
Occasionally couples and families experiencing stress in their relationships may need an objective listener and guide to help them figure out how to reestablish balance. With the many demands of life and work, we work together to find pleasure in their families and for parents to reinstate parental authority within the family structure.
As a PhD in Art Therapy and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I infuse art therapy into my work with my clients only if it appears they would benefit.
My clients are most often dealing with communication concerns, issues of intimacy and complications related to life changes. When traumatic events impact their daily lives, they may seek assistance.
Occasionally couples and families experiencing stress in their relationships may need an objective listener and guide to help them figure out how to reestablish balance. With the many demands of life and work, we work together to find pleasure in their families and for parents to reinstate parental authority within the family structure.
Cadence McCracken
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
In our therapy, we use one or more artistic modalities such as visual art, creative writing, movement, drama and music to do the hard work of recovering from mental health challenges while restoring a sense of curiosity and play.
I am committed to supporting LGBTQ+ teens and adults who would like to explore their healing and growth through the expressive arts. My clients come to me for relief and clarity on a wide range of challenging experiences such as transitions, gender and other-wise, difficult relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and much more. I support clients who may want more creativity in life and to integrate that within therapy to build awareness of their struggles and create a roadmap for resilience.
In our therapy, we use one or more artistic modalities such as visual art, creative writing, movement, drama and music to do the hard work of recovering from mental health challenges while restoring a sense of curiosity and play.
I am committed to supporting LGBTQ+ teens and adults who would like to explore their healing and growth through the expressive arts. My clients come to me for relief and clarity on a wide range of challenging experiences such as transitions, gender and other-wise, difficult relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and much more. I support clients who may want more creativity in life and to integrate that within therapy to build awareness of their struggles and create a roadmap for resilience.
East Bay Art Therapy
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, ATCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As art therapists, we incorporate talk therapy with art making to help our clients unlock their creative potential, look at problems with fresh eyes, and develop new creative coping skills for managing difficult emotions.
Our Art Therapists on staff work with ages 4 and up and have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, self harm, suicidal ideation, grief, life transitions, LGBTQ+ & neurodivergent folx, & more. We offer a safe space to explore, grow, and even have fun in the process. No prior experience or skill with art is necessary!
As art therapists, we incorporate talk therapy with art making to help our clients unlock their creative potential, look at problems with fresh eyes, and develop new creative coping skills for managing difficult emotions.
Our Art Therapists on staff work with ages 4 and up and have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, self harm, suicidal ideation, grief, life transitions, LGBTQ+ & neurodivergent folx, & more. We offer a safe space to explore, grow, and even have fun in the process. No prior experience or skill with art is necessary!
My office has many things that support drama therapy and expressive arts therapy : scarves, a sand tray , and other art supplies.
My work ranges from people who have experienced serious trauma, and suffer from depression and anxiety to those who just want to feel better in their lives and their relationships. I love working with couples. I know from my own experience of being married since 1990 that relationships need nurturing and intention. I love helping couples find intimacy that may have been lost. I really see my work as helping individuals and couples live their best life!
My office has many things that support drama therapy and expressive arts therapy : scarves, a sand tray , and other art supplies.
My work ranges from people who have experienced serious trauma, and suffer from depression and anxiety to those who just want to feel better in their lives and their relationships. I love working with couples. I know from my own experience of being married since 1990 that relationships need nurturing and intention. I love helping couples find intimacy that may have been lost. I really see my work as helping individuals and couples live their best life!
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Art Therapy Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.