Art Therapy in San Francisco, CA

I love including creative and holistic approaches into talk therapy, including art, writing, tarot/oracle cards, and breath-work practices.
Let’s face it, if you’re reading this you are struggling. I work virtually with children (8 and up), teens, and young adults. I most often support clients with managing depression, anxiety, high sensitivity and other forms of neurodivergence, or who are navigating change and learning about self and identity (including gender and sexuality). Do you need to get to know yourself or practice a new skill? To work through shame and give yourself permission to do you? Life can be hard and sometimes you need extra support. Good for you for being brave and reaching out! I am here to help.
I love including creative and holistic approaches into talk therapy, including art, writing, tarot/oracle cards, and breath-work practices.
Let’s face it, if you’re reading this you are struggling. I work virtually with children (8 and up), teens, and young adults. I most often support clients with managing depression, anxiety, high sensitivity and other forms of neurodivergence, or who are navigating change and learning about self and identity (including gender and sexuality). Do you need to get to know yourself or practice a new skill? To work through shame and give yourself permission to do you? Life can be hard and sometimes you need extra support. Good for you for being brave and reaching out! I am here to help.

Let's collaborate to figure out how you want our sessions to look: whether it's CBT, art therapy, somatic, or traditional.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been working as a therapist in multiple community settings for over a decade. I integrate a solution-focused, strength-based, and trauma informed lens with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I emphasize listening to my clients' narratives and centering our therapy sessions to their core values and supporting their life goals.
Let's collaborate to figure out how you want our sessions to look: whether it's CBT, art therapy, somatic, or traditional.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has been working as a therapist in multiple community settings for over a decade. I integrate a solution-focused, strength-based, and trauma informed lens with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I emphasize listening to my clients' narratives and centering our therapy sessions to their core values and supporting their life goals.

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.

I am here to support & build on what you have already, using Mindfulness & Art Therapy to help assist in the process of achieving self-awareness, self-love, self-compassion, & confident problem-solving skills so you can thrive on purpose!.
Our personal history, circumstances, and relationships have shaped our outlook on the world, including how we see ourselves. Because we all come with layers, I utilize strategies of Attachment Theory, Behavioral Therapy, and Insight Driven Modalities to learn what from your past has shaped your experiences today. I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals (children & adults) to help foster their authentic identity and achieve mood regulation, higher self esteem, relief in areas of depression, anxiety, and fears of failure. I am honored to support meaningful change in your journey!
I am here to support & build on what you have already, using Mindfulness & Art Therapy to help assist in the process of achieving self-awareness, self-love, self-compassion, & confident problem-solving skills so you can thrive on purpose!.
Our personal history, circumstances, and relationships have shaped our outlook on the world, including how we see ourselves. Because we all come with layers, I utilize strategies of Attachment Theory, Behavioral Therapy, and Insight Driven Modalities to learn what from your past has shaped your experiences today. I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals (children & adults) to help foster their authentic identity and achieve mood regulation, higher self esteem, relief in areas of depression, anxiety, and fears of failure. I am honored to support meaningful change in your journey!

Art Therapy and EMDR, Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety
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.

To achieve that, I draw from a wide range of therapy models, including mindfulness, insight building, self-compassion, communication, play, art, and other strength-based techniques.
Counseling service is like having a personal trainer in the gym for our mind muscle; individually tailored guidance doesn’t hurt. We all have ups and downs in our life, work, family, relationships, and I'm here to support you through the things that are messy, challenging, and confusing with a safe space for you to just be yourself with no judgements. Let me join your journey of figuring-out, growing, healing, shining and thriving, and make the full access to life experiences with joy of living coming true.
To achieve that, I draw from a wide range of therapy models, including mindfulness, insight building, self-compassion, communication, play, art, and other strength-based techniques.
Counseling service is like having a personal trainer in the gym for our mind muscle; individually tailored guidance doesn’t hurt. We all have ups and downs in our life, work, family, relationships, and I'm here to support you through the things that are messy, challenging, and confusing with a safe space for you to just be yourself with no judgements. Let me join your journey of figuring-out, growing, healing, shining and thriving, and make the full access to life experiences with joy of living coming true.

I also offer video workshops and groups utilizing expressive art.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.
I also offer video workshops and groups utilizing expressive art.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist.
In addition talk therapy, I also offer art therapy to provide a non-verbal, safe way to externalize and resolve issues. The process itself can be healing and reflection on the artwork may provide insights into inner experiences, emotions, and behaviors.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Art Therapist.
In addition talk therapy, I also offer art therapy to provide a non-verbal, safe way to externalize and resolve issues. The process itself can be healing and reflection on the artwork may provide insights into inner experiences, emotions, and behaviors.

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.

I use an integrative client centered approach which may include modalities in art therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy, parts work, CBT and DBT with a trauma informed lens.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, grief and loss, relationship dynamics, major life transitions, anxiety and depression. My goal is to help you develop a better sense of wellbeing, acceptance and a renewed sense of meaning. I understand that doing this work can be overwhelming, so I value a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I frequently work with the LGBTQ community as well as members of the Latino community (hablo Español!). I also work with other therapists and mental health professionals seeking their own therapy.
I use an integrative client centered approach which may include modalities in art therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy, parts work, CBT and DBT with a trauma informed lens.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, grief and loss, relationship dynamics, major life transitions, anxiety and depression. My goal is to help you develop a better sense of wellbeing, acceptance and a renewed sense of meaning. I understand that doing this work can be overwhelming, so I value a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I frequently work with the LGBTQ community as well as members of the Latino community (hablo Español!). I also work with other therapists and mental health professionals seeking their own therapy.

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.
Meet Our Art Therapy

I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist and art therapist.
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.
I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist and art therapist.
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.

Ari-Asha Castalia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CI, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're up for making art, that's great--and it's not required.
I work with couples & individuals, especially around anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a former high school teacher, I have an affinity for adolescents. I trained in Focusing, a somatic mindfulness technique. Combining Focusing with Art Therapy provides a powerful way through what is troubling you into an enhanced, healthy, life. I also facilitate groups.
If you're up for making art, that's great--and it's not required.
I work with couples & individuals, especially around anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a former high school teacher, I have an affinity for adolescents. I trained in Focusing, a somatic mindfulness technique. Combining Focusing with Art Therapy provides a powerful way through what is troubling you into an enhanced, healthy, life. I also facilitate groups.

Rachel M Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Provisional Art Therapist and Mindfulness-based Practitioner, I offer a person-centered, strength-based holistic approach to healing.
Since you have taken the first step in reviewing my profile, I invite you to take the next step and make an appointment to start this therapeutic journey together. I offer video sessions via a HIPAA-compliant, secure video platform. Please send a message or call for a free consultation.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Provisional Art Therapist and Mindfulness-based Practitioner, I offer a person-centered, strength-based holistic approach to healing.
Since you have taken the first step in reviewing my profile, I invite you to take the next step and make an appointment to start this therapeutic journey together. I offer video sessions via a HIPAA-compliant, secure video platform. Please send a message or call for a free consultation.

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.

Alisha Borges - Expansive Therapy
Counselor, APCC
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
For those interested, my background as a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist allows for utilizing the body, art, and play as a few of the key instruments in the healing journey, alongside traditional talk therapy practices.
You can expect a therapeutic experience that meets you where you’re at. A nonjudgmental and accepting environment is what comes first. From there we’ll explore what goals are most important for you in the therapeutic process, as well as what tools fit best for that work.
For those interested, my background as a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist allows for utilizing the body, art, and play as a few of the key instruments in the healing journey, alongside traditional talk therapy practices.
You can expect a therapeutic experience that meets you where you’re at. A nonjudgmental and accepting environment is what comes first. From there we’ll explore what goals are most important for you in the therapeutic process, as well as what tools fit best for that work.

I am trained in traditional talk therapy and experiential expressive art therapies.
I believe that the capacity to thrive lives in your hands, heart, and imagination. As your therapist, I will work with you to uncover your own inherent wisdom. With your wise self in the room, we can explore how parts of you may feel lost or left out. As your wise self learns to take up more space in your life, you may come to realize that the painful parts of you are just that: a part of you, and that your life is not defined by these parts. I will help you to realize that you are indeed amazing, capable, and loved.
I am trained in traditional talk therapy and experiential expressive art therapies.
I believe that the capacity to thrive lives in your hands, heart, and imagination. As your therapist, I will work with you to uncover your own inherent wisdom. With your wise self in the room, we can explore how parts of you may feel lost or left out. As your wise self learns to take up more space in your life, you may come to realize that the painful parts of you are just that: a part of you, and that your life is not defined by these parts. I will help you to realize that you are indeed amazing, capable, and loved.

Brigitte Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, CPP, EMDR, mindfulness & play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children 0-12, teens, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. I've provided therapeutic for 25+ years with families in the SF Bay area in English and Spanish, working closely with Latine communities.
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, CPP, EMDR, mindfulness & play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children 0-12, teens, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. I've provided therapeutic for 25+ years with families in the SF Bay area in English and Spanish, working closely with Latine communities.

I"m certified in CBT, Somatic Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness.
You’re tired of feeling anxious, second-guessing yourself, and prioritizing others at the expense of your own needs. People-pleasing has drained you, and you’re ready for something different. You want to set boundaries, trust your own voice, and feel confident in your decisions. You’re craving a life where you can show up as your authentic self, free from self-doubt. It’s hard to face this alone, especially without the right tools. In therapy, we’ll work through your fears and build the confidence and clarity you need to create a life aligned with who you truly are.
I"m certified in CBT, Somatic Therapy, Art Therapy, and Mindfulness.
You’re tired of feeling anxious, second-guessing yourself, and prioritizing others at the expense of your own needs. People-pleasing has drained you, and you’re ready for something different. You want to set boundaries, trust your own voice, and feel confident in your decisions. You’re craving a life where you can show up as your authentic self, free from self-doubt. It’s hard to face this alone, especially without the right tools. In therapy, we’ll work through your fears and build the confidence and clarity you need to create a life aligned with who you truly are.

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.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Art Therapy Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
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.