Art Therapy in San Diego, CA

I utilize somatic release, breathwork, as well as the creative process in my therapy technique, such as dreams, art, writing, and various creative expressions you choose to explore.
I approach clients with ways in which they can emotionally connect and address childhood trauma, wounds of the past, and being able to manage negative emotions with various coping skills.
I utilize somatic release, breathwork, as well as the creative process in my therapy technique, such as dreams, art, writing, and various creative expressions you choose to explore.
I approach clients with ways in which they can emotionally connect and address childhood trauma, wounds of the past, and being able to manage negative emotions with various coping skills.

art, music, sand-tray) to help children learn to express themselves.
I truly believe we all have the resources within us to grow and heal. However, there are times we become "stuck" in life and overcome with fear or other factors. I am passionate in working with children and adults in helping them recognize deeper/underlying issues or past traumatic experiences that can impair a person's function each day in various ways. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and complex trauma (Ie physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, DV, life adjustments, grief/loss). I am trained in EMDR, a research-based treatment that facilitates the brain's own capacity to heal.
art, music, sand-tray) to help children learn to express themselves.
I truly believe we all have the resources within us to grow and heal. However, there are times we become "stuck" in life and overcome with fear or other factors. I am passionate in working with children and adults in helping them recognize deeper/underlying issues or past traumatic experiences that can impair a person's function each day in various ways. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and complex trauma (Ie physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, DV, life adjustments, grief/loss). I am trained in EMDR, a research-based treatment that facilitates the brain's own capacity to heal.

I'm licensed in California, and additional certification in Expressive Art Therapy.
Dr. Moon is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to fostering mental well-being. She creates a warm and inclusive therapeutic environment, ensuring effective communication with diverse clients. With a wealth of experience in addressing various psychological challenges, Dr. Moon is committed to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional resilience and personal growth.
I'm licensed in California, and additional certification in Expressive Art Therapy.
Dr. Moon is a compassionate psychologist dedicated to fostering mental well-being. She creates a warm and inclusive therapeutic environment, ensuring effective communication with diverse clients. With a wealth of experience in addressing various psychological challenges, Dr. Moon is committed to guiding individuals on their journey to emotional resilience and personal growth.

I also invite dreams, journaling, and art into my work.
Hello, my name is Inge Dean. I have been working as a licensed psychotherapist in the S.F. Bay Area for 20+ years. My job as a therapist is to attune and listen to what you are telling me and to support you in freeing yourself from old patterns and past traumas. So that you can make new, clearer life choices to feed your well-being and joy. I enjoy and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I also see couples and families. People come to me for many reasons from anxiety, depression histories of trauma, and for personal and spiritual growth.
I also invite dreams, journaling, and art into my work.
Hello, my name is Inge Dean. I have been working as a licensed psychotherapist in the S.F. Bay Area for 20+ years. My job as a therapist is to attune and listen to what you are telling me and to support you in freeing yourself from old patterns and past traumas. So that you can make new, clearer life choices to feed your well-being and joy. I enjoy and have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I also see couples and families. People come to me for many reasons from anxiety, depression histories of trauma, and for personal and spiritual growth.

I have also been trained in Art Therapy, which I have used with children, men, women.
Hello, my name is Anne Brace. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had many years of experience helping diverse clients create safe and fulfilling lives. I look forward to collaborating with new clients on their unique challenges. I have worked most often with adult women and have also provided mental health services to adult men, teenagers, children, and families. I am currently most interested in working with adults, on issues of anxiety, self-confidence/assertiveness, mood challenges, trauma histories, attachment/parenting, LGBTQ+ concerns, and culture-based stresses.
I have also been trained in Art Therapy, which I have used with children, men, women.
Hello, my name is Anne Brace. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had many years of experience helping diverse clients create safe and fulfilling lives. I look forward to collaborating with new clients on their unique challenges. I have worked most often with adult women and have also provided mental health services to adult men, teenagers, children, and families. I am currently most interested in working with adults, on issues of anxiety, self-confidence/assertiveness, mood challenges, trauma histories, attachment/parenting, LGBTQ+ concerns, and culture-based stresses.

Olivia Waldorf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Something really special that I bring into the therapy space is artmaking and creative expression; as research shows, art is a powerful healing tool, so I use this creativity to help you navigate interpersonal dynamics, life changes, grief & loss, identity exploration, hard emotions, or to just be present with yourself in a world of noise.
My own clinical background is rooted in destigmatization, relationship work, trauma-informed care, queer identity and experience, as well as childhood trauma. Through using person-centered therapy (PCT) and the expressive arts continuum framework, we’ll work through hard things together using trust, compassion, empathy, and building a safe space.
Something really special that I bring into the therapy space is artmaking and creative expression; as research shows, art is a powerful healing tool, so I use this creativity to help you navigate interpersonal dynamics, life changes, grief & loss, identity exploration, hard emotions, or to just be present with yourself in a world of noise.
My own clinical background is rooted in destigmatization, relationship work, trauma-informed care, queer identity and experience, as well as childhood trauma. Through using person-centered therapy (PCT) and the expressive arts continuum framework, we’ll work through hard things together using trust, compassion, empathy, and building a safe space.

I bring evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,
I bring evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,

I have 25 years of experience in theater, art and improvisation.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because it is clinically proven to be most effective in treating mental health issues. I work collaboratively with clients, designing the best treatment plan for their needs. My clients spend valuable hours in session as well as actively practicing new life skills outside the office.
I have 25 years of experience in theater, art and improvisation.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy because it is clinically proven to be most effective in treating mental health issues. I work collaboratively with clients, designing the best treatment plan for their needs. My clients spend valuable hours in session as well as actively practicing new life skills outside the office.

Shannon Jones - Holistic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, AT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
As a trauma-informed therapist, I take a holistic and humanistic approach, integrating mindfulness, somatic therapy, and art therapy into our work together.
I bring deep compassion, groundedness, humor, and directness to our sessions, honoring the sacred uniqueness of your story. Every part of you is welcome here—ready for us to explore, nurture, and grow together.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I take a holistic and humanistic approach, integrating mindfulness, somatic therapy, and art therapy into our work together.
I bring deep compassion, groundedness, humor, and directness to our sessions, honoring the sacred uniqueness of your story. Every part of you is welcome here—ready for us to explore, nurture, and grow together.

The techniques I use include a combination of theoretical perspectives such as psychoanalytic, existentialist, and expressive art therapy.
Once we learn to accept reality and our limitations, we are left with new perspectives and with creative solutions to our problems
The techniques I use include a combination of theoretical perspectives such as psychoanalytic, existentialist, and expressive art therapy.
Once we learn to accept reality and our limitations, we are left with new perspectives and with creative solutions to our problems

Jesse Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
Together, we’ll explore their unique experiences using Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and art therapies.
I offer a supportive space for children and adults to explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, fostering a safe environment for healing and growth. I have great hope in my clients' potential for success as we work together to achieve their goals and create a more fulfilling life.
Together, we’ll explore their unique experiences using Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and art therapies.
I offer a supportive space for children and adults to explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach is tailored to each client's unique needs, fostering a safe environment for healing and growth. I have great hope in my clients' potential for success as we work together to achieve their goals and create a more fulfilling life.
Meet Our Art Therapy

The common types of therapy I focus on are Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy, Family therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Art therapy, and Psychoeducation.
As your therapist, I will work with you on providing supportive therapy that will help navigate your problems and challenges effectively. I am extremely supportive and compassionate in helping you treat your challenges and symptoms relating to your mental health and emotions.
The common types of therapy I focus on are Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal therapy, Family therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, Art therapy, and Psychoeducation.
As your therapist, I will work with you on providing supportive therapy that will help navigate your problems and challenges effectively. I am extremely supportive and compassionate in helping you treat your challenges and symptoms relating to your mental health and emotions.

I use a variety of treatment approaches: EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, directive and solution- focused therapy, and art therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, physical/sexual and emotional abuse, parenting, parent-child conflict, grief, relationship issues and divorce issues. I am currently only offering tele therapy and only work with adults. Online therapy can be offered in the comfort of your own home.
I use a variety of treatment approaches: EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, directive and solution- focused therapy, and art therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, physical/sexual and emotional abuse, parenting, parent-child conflict, grief, relationship issues and divorce issues. I am currently only offering tele therapy and only work with adults. Online therapy can be offered in the comfort of your own home.

I am trained in a variety of therapies including talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, trauma therapies.
Hello, my name is Gabriel Mejia, and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I approach therapy as a professional whose aim is to improve the quality of life of my clients. Working together as a unit with my clients, I hope to fill the missing puzzles pieces of what happiness, satisfaction, contentment, empowerment or peace of mind feels like. Likewise, I help clients to re-shift distorted, stressful, anxiety, depressive, overwhelming thoughts/experiences in order to gain back the calm that might be missing in their lives.
I am trained in a variety of therapies including talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, trauma therapies.
Hello, my name is Gabriel Mejia, and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I approach therapy as a professional whose aim is to improve the quality of life of my clients. Working together as a unit with my clients, I hope to fill the missing puzzles pieces of what happiness, satisfaction, contentment, empowerment or peace of mind feels like. Likewise, I help clients to re-shift distorted, stressful, anxiety, depressive, overwhelming thoughts/experiences in order to gain back the calm that might be missing in their lives.

I use a modern, integrative model of therapy called Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), as well as Art Therapy and Gottman Method for couples.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.
I use a modern, integrative model of therapy called Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), as well as Art Therapy and Gottman Method for couples.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.

Dominique Giambalvo @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Dominique utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary framework, while also bringing expertise in play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), art therapy, and suicide prevention.
Dominique Giambalvo is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience providing therapy to children, families, and individuals of all ages. Passionate about supporting mental wellness, she specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum and those who have experienced trauma. Dominique fosters emotional growth and healing through a client-centered, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. She is particularly skilled in working with young clients, drawing on training with children as young as 2.
Dominique utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary framework, while also bringing expertise in play therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), art therapy, and suicide prevention.
Dominique Giambalvo is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience providing therapy to children, families, and individuals of all ages. Passionate about supporting mental wellness, she specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum and those who have experienced trauma. Dominique fosters emotional growth and healing through a client-centered, strengths-based, and humanistic approach. She is particularly skilled in working with young clients, drawing on training with children as young as 2.

Sam Scheidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Art Therapist with additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am an EMDR trained therapist. I am passionate about working with young adult clients who want to overcome struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Art Therapist with additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am an EMDR trained therapist. I am passionate about working with young adult clients who want to overcome struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ issues, and more.

Nasheili González Reihling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
For children, I incorporate art & play therapy to foster a safe and creative space where they can feel supported.
Hello, I’m Nasheili, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in providing culturally affirming therapy to individuals from mixed, international, and immigrant families. My work is centered around helping people navigate the complexities of relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, self-esteem challenges, and trauma. I also have vast experience and love working with children and supporting families whose child or teen is struggling at school or/and home due to trauma, emotional regulation, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, autism, or LGBTQ+ identity concerns.
For children, I incorporate art & play therapy to foster a safe and creative space where they can feel supported.
Hello, I’m Nasheili, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 8 years of experience. I specialize in providing culturally affirming therapy to individuals from mixed, international, and immigrant families. My work is centered around helping people navigate the complexities of relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, self-esteem challenges, and trauma. I also have vast experience and love working with children and supporting families whose child or teen is struggling at school or/and home due to trauma, emotional regulation, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, autism, or LGBTQ+ identity concerns.

I offer EMDR, Art Therapy, and Walk and Talk Therapy.
I believe in you. You’ve made it here, which means you’ve already taken action for change. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered on your path to well being. You do not need to be on this journey alone. As a therapist, my goal is to understand your goals as deeply as possible. This will mean changing the way you think, feel, and act on a daily basis. Over time you'll develop useful strategies to modify your thoughts and behaviors. We will know our work is done when you are thriving in the life that you envision. You will take our work with you after we end and reap the benefits throughout your life.
I offer EMDR, Art Therapy, and Walk and Talk Therapy.
I believe in you. You’ve made it here, which means you’ve already taken action for change. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered on your path to well being. You do not need to be on this journey alone. As a therapist, my goal is to understand your goals as deeply as possible. This will mean changing the way you think, feel, and act on a daily basis. Over time you'll develop useful strategies to modify your thoughts and behaviors. We will know our work is done when you are thriving in the life that you envision. You will take our work with you after we end and reap the benefits throughout your life.

Jennifer Phelps | Pathways Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I graduated from UCSD with a major in Visual Art and and later decided to follow my passion to become an art therapist.
I love working with folks who might not know their own potential, who are finding their identity, have never been in therapy, or don’t want to be in therapy. I use my sense of humor and down-to-earth attitude to help create a welcoming therapeutic space.
I graduated from UCSD with a major in Visual Art and and later decided to follow my passion to become an art therapist.
I love working with folks who might not know their own potential, who are finding their identity, have never been in therapy, or don’t want to be in therapy. I use my sense of humor and down-to-earth attitude to help create a welcoming therapeutic space.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Art Therapy Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- Santee
- Solana Beach
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.