Art Therapy in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Courtney A Hartman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Courtney A Hartman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness and embodied self awareness including relaxation techniques, meditation and art, specializing in trauma, grief and child/family/parenting work.
Starting therapy and finding the right fit can be a daunting task. I view the therapeutic relationship as something that is co-created over time and as the primary tool for healing. I have experience working with ages 3-50+ providing specific insights and tools relevant for the progressive stages of life and the many difficulties that can come up along the way. Focusing on the here and now, we work to increase self awareness, compassion, insight and care while simultaneously holding the larger context within which we meet, including ways that race, gender, class and culture impact our experiences and identities.
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness and embodied self awareness including relaxation techniques, meditation and art, specializing in trauma, grief and child/family/parenting work.
Starting therapy and finding the right fit can be a daunting task. I view the therapeutic relationship as something that is co-created over time and as the primary tool for healing. I have experience working with ages 3-50+ providing specific insights and tools relevant for the progressive stages of life and the many difficulties that can come up along the way. Focusing on the here and now, we work to increase self awareness, compassion, insight and care while simultaneously holding the larger context within which we meet, including ways that race, gender, class and culture impact our experiences and identities.
(415) 799-1485 View (415) 799-1485
Photo of Cecilie Herring, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cecilie Herring
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am also an art therapist and offer art and sand tray therapy when my clients are drawn to these modalities.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist offering psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My training focuses on helping my clients improve their relationships with themselves and others, navigate life transitions, and heal from traumatic experiences. My overall approach seeks to provide a warm, trusting, nonjudgemental relationship in which you are deeply listened to and can safely and freely discuss your challenges, concerns, and vulnerabilities.
I am also an art therapist and offer art and sand tray therapy when my clients are drawn to these modalities.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist offering psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. My training focuses on helping my clients improve their relationships with themselves and others, navigate life transitions, and heal from traumatic experiences. My overall approach seeks to provide a warm, trusting, nonjudgemental relationship in which you are deeply listened to and can safely and freely discuss your challenges, concerns, and vulnerabilities.
(415) 517-9319 View (415) 517-9319
Photo of Noelle Braddock, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Noelle Braddock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
For those that are interested, I also enjoy using intuition, creativity, and the imaginal realms (imagery, visualization, experiential exercises, art, dreamwork, etc.
I offer counseling for individuals and partners experiencing a broad range of life challenges. And, I have extensive experience in supporting folks as they navigate the following content areas: communication & relationship issues; grief & loss; identity; trauma; sexual orientation, sexuality & sensuality; creativity; systems & lived experiences of oppression; anxiety & fear; depression; co-dependence; addiction; infidelity, betrayal & trust; and inner-child work. I’m sex-positive, queer, and poly- & kink-affirming, and welcome all ethnic & racial identities & positionalities. (For more info: www.noellebraddocktherapy.com)
For those that are interested, I also enjoy using intuition, creativity, and the imaginal realms (imagery, visualization, experiential exercises, art, dreamwork, etc.
I offer counseling for individuals and partners experiencing a broad range of life challenges. And, I have extensive experience in supporting folks as they navigate the following content areas: communication & relationship issues; grief & loss; identity; trauma; sexual orientation, sexuality & sensuality; creativity; systems & lived experiences of oppression; anxiety & fear; depression; co-dependence; addiction; infidelity, betrayal & trust; and inner-child work. I’m sex-positive, queer, and poly- & kink-affirming, and welcome all ethnic & racial identities & positionalities. (For more info: www.noellebraddocktherapy.com)
(415) 527-5968 View (415) 527-5968
Photo of Francine Filzen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Francine Filzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94134
Hello! My name is Franni Filzen and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and credentialed art therapist. I work with youth, individuals, and families from a strength-based relational approach. I believe that every person is unique, and I employ an eclectic approach choosing from my years of experience and modality that I feel will work best with each individual. I use family systems, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, neuro-sequential model of therapeutics, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, collaborative problem solving, and other modalities as well as incorporating art therapy when appropriate.
Hello! My name is Franni Filzen and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and credentialed art therapist. I work with youth, individuals, and families from a strength-based relational approach. I believe that every person is unique, and I employ an eclectic approach choosing from my years of experience and modality that I feel will work best with each individual. I use family systems, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, neuro-sequential model of therapeutics, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, collaborative problem solving, and other modalities as well as incorporating art therapy when appropriate.
(510) 867-3650 View (510) 867-3650
Photo of Elvira Kitrar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Elvira Kitrar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I employ a variety of techniques ranging from standard psychotherapy to art therapy, sand play, relaxation and guided visualization.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
I employ a variety of techniques ranging from standard psychotherapy to art therapy, sand play, relaxation and guided visualization.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
(415) 534-9620 View (415) 534-9620
Photo of Kristin Fialko, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kristin Fialko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I work relationally with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, Gestalt & Parts work, Transpersonal psychology, mindfulness practices, art therapy modalities and a social-justice & anti-racist orientation.
We often find ourselves and bodies, on the path towards health after overwhelming experiences, trauma, grief or loss. Re-igniting our inner-fire and natural emotional balance can understandably be a challenge. Trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy can help! I take my role as a therapist, one who supports the client On their journey, as a facilitator of a sacred collaboration. I conduct therapy with an intention to process and move trauma (anxiety, depression and grief accompanying it) in order to restore balance between the mind, body, and spirit and reignite the internal fire.
I work relationally with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, Gestalt & Parts work, Transpersonal psychology, mindfulness practices, art therapy modalities and a social-justice & anti-racist orientation.
We often find ourselves and bodies, on the path towards health after overwhelming experiences, trauma, grief or loss. Re-igniting our inner-fire and natural emotional balance can understandably be a challenge. Trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy can help! I take my role as a therapist, one who supports the client On their journey, as a facilitator of a sacred collaboration. I conduct therapy with an intention to process and move trauma (anxiety, depression and grief accompanying it) in order to restore balance between the mind, body, and spirit and reignite the internal fire.
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Photo of Marcia Weisbrot, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Marcia Weisbrot
Counselor, LPCC, ATR, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
Art therapy is psychotherapy using art and may go deeper than verbal therapy.
Empathy is a keystone of the therapeutic relationship. It fosters a partnership between the two of us that promotes wellness, and a sense of safety and trust. Together, we collaborate in setting goals so that you develop insight and make meaningful changes in your life. Our work might include mindfulness for stress, cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and/or anxiety and psychodynamic work to uncover deeper issues. You might be struggling with life transitions, low self esteem, a recent loss or a creative block. We use a variety of approaches to help you get back on track.
Art therapy is psychotherapy using art and may go deeper than verbal therapy.
Empathy is a keystone of the therapeutic relationship. It fosters a partnership between the two of us that promotes wellness, and a sense of safety and trust. Together, we collaborate in setting goals so that you develop insight and make meaningful changes in your life. Our work might include mindfulness for stress, cognitive behavioral therapy for depression and/or anxiety and psychodynamic work to uncover deeper issues. You might be struggling with life transitions, low self esteem, a recent loss or a creative block. We use a variety of approaches to help you get back on track.
(415) 475-0626 View (415) 475-0626
Photo of Melissa Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Melissa Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
In addition talk therapy, I also offer art therapy to provide a non-verbal, safe way to externalize and resolve issues.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist. I help clients create healthier patterns in life and improve relationships. Services available for adults, couples, families and children. My areas of emphasis include abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, parenting support, self-esteem, and personal growth. I am also trained in EMDR.
In addition talk therapy, I also offer art therapy to provide a non-verbal, safe way to externalize and resolve issues.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist. I help clients create healthier patterns in life and improve relationships. Services available for adults, couples, families and children. My areas of emphasis include abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, parenting support, self-esteem, and personal growth. I am also trained in EMDR.
(415) 799-9445 View (415) 799-9445
Photo of Ami E. Hartley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ami E. Hartley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
I can integrate art therapy and hypnotherapy into our sessions or use them exclusively as primary treatments.
People come to therapy when they feel ready. Often they have gained some insight and are consciously seeking a happier, more balanced life. Many people are aware of a need for healing narcissistic abuse from family, partners or in the work environment. The motivation it takes to make that first phone call is a major step towards positive change. My style is interpersonal, supportive, open and communicative. Most people appreciate guidance, direction and practical feedback. I encourage exploration of unconscious repetitive patterns in relationships and making changes wherever possible.
I can integrate art therapy and hypnotherapy into our sessions or use them exclusively as primary treatments.
People come to therapy when they feel ready. Often they have gained some insight and are consciously seeking a happier, more balanced life. Many people are aware of a need for healing narcissistic abuse from family, partners or in the work environment. The motivation it takes to make that first phone call is a major step towards positive change. My style is interpersonal, supportive, open and communicative. Most people appreciate guidance, direction and practical feedback. I encourage exploration of unconscious repetitive patterns in relationships and making changes wherever possible.
(415) 319-9740 View (415) 319-9740
Photo of Max Kopeikin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Max Kopeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PgDip, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
Imagination and creativity are infused into my approach, whether in art therapy, yoga therapy or in a more traditional talk-based individual or couples therapy.
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
Imagination and creativity are infused into my approach, whether in art therapy, yoga therapy or in a more traditional talk-based individual or couples therapy.
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
(628) 244-3943 View (628) 244-3943
Photo of Chelsea Owens, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Chelsea Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I practice using an integrative approach to therapy, drawing upon art therapy modalities, Internal Family Systems, humanistic, transpersonal/mindfulness practices, and diversity to inform and provide an empathetic foundation from which the process of growth can flourish.
Hello! I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist, I know how important relationships are, and how little we are taught about how to do them! I work with women who are feeling disconnected from themselves. Women who are struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, trauma, boundaries and relationship issues. I'm here to help facilitate a relationship between you and all parts of you. I believe there is creativity, reflection and expression inside of everyone and it can be easier to communicate without words. I bring warmth and energy to the room and levity to situations that can sometimes feel overwhelming and heavy.
I practice using an integrative approach to therapy, drawing upon art therapy modalities, Internal Family Systems, humanistic, transpersonal/mindfulness practices, and diversity to inform and provide an empathetic foundation from which the process of growth can flourish.
Hello! I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist, I know how important relationships are, and how little we are taught about how to do them! I work with women who are feeling disconnected from themselves. Women who are struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, trauma, boundaries and relationship issues. I'm here to help facilitate a relationship between you and all parts of you. I believe there is creativity, reflection and expression inside of everyone and it can be easier to communicate without words. I bring warmth and energy to the room and levity to situations that can sometimes feel overwhelming and heavy.
(650) 651-5952 View (650) 651-5952
Photo of Jo Sopko, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jo Sopko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am an expressive art & drama therapist, dedicated to the inquiry and exploration of the client's life as we travel together along the therapeutic path.
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
I am an expressive art & drama therapist, dedicated to the inquiry and exploration of the client's life as we travel together along the therapeutic path.
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
(415) 799-4143 View (415) 799-4143
Photo of Inaê Cintra Mattiazzi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Inaê Cintra Mattiazzi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
This includes parts work, art therapy, psychodynamics, mindfulness- all from a trauma-informed, social justice, and depth orientation.
Whatever you're struggling with, it can be really helpful to have someone by your side to figure it out. Together we can bring awareness to your patterns, emotional experience, and relational issues in order to give you more agency and empowerment. That is what therapy is to me- I believe you are the expert in your own life, and I am there to support you. My ideal client is anyone who is motivated to explore their inner world and connect to their sense of self through depth work and creative means.
This includes parts work, art therapy, psychodynamics, mindfulness- all from a trauma-informed, social justice, and depth orientation.
Whatever you're struggling with, it can be really helpful to have someone by your side to figure it out. Together we can bring awareness to your patterns, emotional experience, and relational issues in order to give you more agency and empowerment. That is what therapy is to me- I believe you are the expert in your own life, and I am there to support you. My ideal client is anyone who is motivated to explore their inner world and connect to their sense of self through depth work and creative means.
(415) 737-6134 View (415) 737-6134
Photo of Rylan Jay Testa, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Rylan Jay Testa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
As a health psychologist, my approach bridges mental and physical well-being, allowing you to reclaim your life from chronic health issues, such as chronic disease (ex. diabetes, chronic fatigue, IBS, CIRS etc.), weight and eating difficulties, stress-related illness, insomnia, pain, addiction, depression, and anxiety. I combine my expertise in multiple state of the art evidence-based treatment methods, with a nuanced understanding of who you are as a person, to create a tailored treatment approach specific to your aims. I also offer opportunities to incorporate mindfulness, music, art, movement, and nature therapy practices, to maximize your therapeutic success.
As a health psychologist, my approach bridges mental and physical well-being, allowing you to reclaim your life from chronic health issues, such as chronic disease (ex. diabetes, chronic fatigue, IBS, CIRS etc.), weight and eating difficulties, stress-related illness, insomnia, pain, addiction, depression, and anxiety. I combine my expertise in multiple state of the art evidence-based treatment methods, with a nuanced understanding of who you are as a person, to create a tailored treatment approach specific to your aims. I also offer opportunities to incorporate mindfulness, music, art, movement, and nature therapy practices, to maximize your therapeutic success.
(415) 358-0128 View (415) 358-0128
Photo of Victoria Jones( Heal My Vibes), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Victoria Jones( Heal My Vibes)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94188  (Online Only)
HMV offers services to adults and couples using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Art Psychotherapy.
Hey you! How are you feeling today? How did you feel yesterday? What about one week or one month ago? Now let me ask, how do you want to feel? Is it better than today, yesterday, a week or month ago? Or are you unsure of what has been going on lately and you need a space to figure that out? Let's be honest, life can be a real struggle, and Heal My Vibes (HMV) offers a safe space to figure this life stuff out. How that happens is by you scheduling a FREE consultation. If it's a good fit, your initial appointment will be set to chat about you and your goals for therapy.
HMV offers services to adults and couples using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Art Psychotherapy.
Hey you! How are you feeling today? How did you feel yesterday? What about one week or one month ago? Now let me ask, how do you want to feel? Is it better than today, yesterday, a week or month ago? Or are you unsure of what has been going on lately and you need a space to figure that out? Let's be honest, life can be a real struggle, and Heal My Vibes (HMV) offers a safe space to figure this life stuff out. How that happens is by you scheduling a FREE consultation. If it's a good fit, your initial appointment will be set to chat about you and your goals for therapy.
(510) 617-0560 View (510) 617-0560
Photo of Ashley Boyer, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Boyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
I gravitate towards Mindfulness and Art and play-based interventions.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
I gravitate towards Mindfulness and Art and play-based interventions.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
(628) 228-6535 View (628) 228-6535
Photo of Amy Backos, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Amy Backos
Psychologist, PhD, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94131
With over 26 years experience as a creativity psychologist, author, researcher, board-certified art therapist, and professor, I bring modern, creative, and evidence-based strategies to our sessions.
Are you longing for more energy and mental clarity to thrive in both your professional and personal life? Do you find yourself carrying the weight of past pain, unwanted thoughts, and strained relationships? If you're ready to overcome past traumas and unlock a life filled with joy, ease, balance, and success, I invite you to explore an effective and creative approach. At my practice, you can harness the power of both sides of your brain – creativity & logic, focus & curiosity, thoughts & emotions. Through a unique combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Art Therapy, you become flexible, creative, and mindfully aware.
With over 26 years experience as a creativity psychologist, author, researcher, board-certified art therapist, and professor, I bring modern, creative, and evidence-based strategies to our sessions.
Are you longing for more energy and mental clarity to thrive in both your professional and personal life? Do you find yourself carrying the weight of past pain, unwanted thoughts, and strained relationships? If you're ready to overcome past traumas and unlock a life filled with joy, ease, balance, and success, I invite you to explore an effective and creative approach. At my practice, you can harness the power of both sides of your brain – creativity & logic, focus & curiosity, thoughts & emotions. Through a unique combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Art Therapy, you become flexible, creative, and mindfully aware.
(415) 592-6406 View (415) 592-6406
Photo of Ariella Tanzer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ariella Tanzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
My therapy approach focuses on your strengths and I use mindfulness practices, EFT tapping, and art therapy to help you make lasting changes, deepen your insights and reach your goals.
Hello and welcome to my profile page. Are you feeling stuck and are unsure how to get back in motion? Are you noticing a pattern in your life that you want to understand or change? Have you recently gone through a difficult life event, are feeling overwhelmed and in need of some emotional support? You have found your way to the right place. I know that change is possible and I believe you are strong, resilient and capable of positive growth. I will help guide you to finding a way to show up in your life that feels most authentic for you.
My therapy approach focuses on your strengths and I use mindfulness practices, EFT tapping, and art therapy to help you make lasting changes, deepen your insights and reach your goals.
Hello and welcome to my profile page. Are you feeling stuck and are unsure how to get back in motion? Are you noticing a pattern in your life that you want to understand or change? Have you recently gone through a difficult life event, are feeling overwhelmed and in need of some emotional support? You have found your way to the right place. I know that change is possible and I believe you are strong, resilient and capable of positive growth. I will help guide you to finding a way to show up in your life that feels most authentic for you.
(415) 322-7836 View (415) 322-7836
Photo of Tandra Froehlich Childress, Art Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Tandra Froehlich Childress
Art Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
Some of the approaches I utilize are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, core values work, self-care skills, EMDR and Art Therapy.
I create a safe holding space where people can deeply explore what is blocking them from enjoying their lives to the fullest. I focus on authentic connection and empathy to build trusting therapeudic relationships. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults. If you are struggling to recover from DID, complex trauma, single traumas, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder, I am here to help.
Some of the approaches I utilize are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, core values work, self-care skills, EMDR and Art Therapy.
I create a safe holding space where people can deeply explore what is blocking them from enjoying their lives to the fullest. I focus on authentic connection and empathy to build trusting therapeudic relationships. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and adults. If you are struggling to recover from DID, complex trauma, single traumas, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder, I am here to help.
(415) 562-0416 View (415) 562-0416
Photo of Meredith Holmes, Psychological Associate in San Francisco, CA
Meredith Holmes
Psychological Associate, MSW, MSCP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
(415) 874-0759 View (415) 874-0759

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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.