Expressive Arts Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Jordan Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jordan Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
If you are a teen or adult who has experienced trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression or anxiety, I offer a safe supportive space. I provide an environment for clients to express and understand themselves using a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. My approach is non-judgemental, creative, and empowering. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community. Together we can help you set boundaries, highlight on your strengths and build your supports.
If you are a teen or adult who has experienced trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression or anxiety, I offer a safe supportive space. I provide an environment for clients to express and understand themselves using a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. My approach is non-judgemental, creative, and empowering. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community. Together we can help you set boundaries, highlight on your strengths and build your supports.
(720) 580-5262 View (720) 580-5262
Photo of Nicole Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Nicole Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
I am trained as an expressive arts therapist, neurofeedback practitioner, and I love to integrate modern & fun techniques into my style of counseling.
Hi, I'm Nicole, a licensed professional counselor and neurotherapist serving CO in-person and online! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who need support coping with life's plentiful and ongoing challenges. I guide individuals towards resilience and confidence through the use of colorful interventions & therapeutic techniques that are adapted to your lifestyle, needs, personality, and interests. Therapy encourages deep personal growth and helps you to find the pieces within yourself that enable healing and change. Consider me along for the ride, your personal ally, and a professional witness to your life.
I am trained as an expressive arts therapist, neurofeedback practitioner, and I love to integrate modern & fun techniques into my style of counseling.
Hi, I'm Nicole, a licensed professional counselor and neurotherapist serving CO in-person and online! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who need support coping with life's plentiful and ongoing challenges. I guide individuals towards resilience and confidence through the use of colorful interventions & therapeutic techniques that are adapted to your lifestyle, needs, personality, and interests. Therapy encourages deep personal growth and helps you to find the pieces within yourself that enable healing and change. Consider me along for the ride, your personal ally, and a professional witness to your life.
(720) 679-7786 x5 View (720) 679-7786 x5
Photo of Michelle Keelan, Counselor in Denver, CO
Michelle Keelan
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I enjoy using therapeutic techniques such as: inner child work, images/symbolism, dreamwork, energy work and expressive arts.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a holistic therapist who works with the mind, body and Spirit. I use a holistic and intuitive counseling approach incorporating mind, body, and spirit to help clients develop ways to shine light into their lives. My practice addresses anxiety, self-worth, boundaries, relationship issues, spirituality, and for anyone adjusting to difficult changes (especially in our current pandemic). My passion is helping people to empower their lives so they can align with their own passion and purpose.
I enjoy using therapeutic techniques such as: inner child work, images/symbolism, dreamwork, energy work and expressive arts.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a holistic therapist who works with the mind, body and Spirit. I use a holistic and intuitive counseling approach incorporating mind, body, and spirit to help clients develop ways to shine light into their lives. My practice addresses anxiety, self-worth, boundaries, relationship issues, spirituality, and for anyone adjusting to difficult changes (especially in our current pandemic). My passion is helping people to empower their lives so they can align with their own passion and purpose.
(720) 605-7233 View (720) 605-7233
Photo of Te Anna Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Te Anna Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
I can also provide specialized treatment plans in expressive arts therapies - play therapy, art therapy and drama therapy - especially powerful therapy tools with children, teens, couples and families.
Everyone has a story. Our stories say something about who we are and how we manage life, how we get our needs met and how we relate. We all have the same basic needs for love, acceptance, connection, significance and purpose. Life can be full of joy and laughter, and at other times there can be deep hurt and sorrow when we need someone with an understanding heart and mind to join us in our journey. My heartfelt compassion and commitment to each person I serve, specifically caring for their unique needs makes all the difference.
I can also provide specialized treatment plans in expressive arts therapies - play therapy, art therapy and drama therapy - especially powerful therapy tools with children, teens, couples and families.
Everyone has a story. Our stories say something about who we are and how we manage life, how we get our needs met and how we relate. We all have the same basic needs for love, acceptance, connection, significance and purpose. Life can be full of joy and laughter, and at other times there can be deep hurt and sorrow when we need someone with an understanding heart and mind to join us in our journey. My heartfelt compassion and commitment to each person I serve, specifically caring for their unique needs makes all the difference.
(720) 789-8705 View (720) 789-8705
Photo of Jordan Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Jordan Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPC, ADDC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212
Jordan has been practicing counseling since 2016, and has experience in community, non-profit, and private practice settings. She’s worked with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression and anxiety. Jordan is passionate about providing a safe space for clients to express and understand themselves. She uses a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. Her approach is playful, creative, and empowering. She also has experience providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community.
Jordan has been practicing counseling since 2016, and has experience in community, non-profit, and private practice settings. She’s worked with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression and anxiety. Jordan is passionate about providing a safe space for clients to express and understand themselves. She uses a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. Her approach is playful, creative, and empowering. She also has experience providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community.
(720) 928-9332 View (720) 928-9332
Photo of Emily Black, Counselor in Denver, CO
Emily Black
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
(720) 794-9972 View (720) 794-9972
Photo of Kate Shannon, Art Therapist in Denver, CO
Kate Shannon
Art Therapist, LCAT, LCPC, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
We may use approaches such as EMDR, Mindfulness, Sandtray, Expressive Arts and/or parts work depending on what feels good for you.
Anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and relationship issues are heavy burdens to carry every day. these pressures are not easy to deal with every day. It’s a serious burden to carry and it’s absolutely exhausting. It has an effect on your relationships, your social connections, your work, your school – everything. Therapy can help you understand the why behind the anxiety, stress, pressure, and confusion you might feel. You can move beyond just coping skills and get to the deeper root of these struggles. If you’re ready to do the work, it’s possible to find relief, build stronger relationships, and live with more ease.
We may use approaches such as EMDR, Mindfulness, Sandtray, Expressive Arts and/or parts work depending on what feels good for you.
Anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, and relationship issues are heavy burdens to carry every day. these pressures are not easy to deal with every day. It’s a serious burden to carry and it’s absolutely exhausting. It has an effect on your relationships, your social connections, your work, your school – everything. Therapy can help you understand the why behind the anxiety, stress, pressure, and confusion you might feel. You can move beyond just coping skills and get to the deeper root of these struggles. If you’re ready to do the work, it’s possible to find relief, build stronger relationships, and live with more ease.
(315) 840-1586 View (315) 840-1586
Photo of Lacie Killion, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Lacie Killion
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAC , RPT, CSST, CSPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80215
I use system-based approaches, expressive arts, and mindfulness therapy in the treatment of various presenting issues.
I obtained my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy at Argosy University. I specialize in youth and family therapy, in Lakewood, CO. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. I hold certificates in systemic Art, Play, and Sandplay therapy. I earned my Bachelor's in Human Services with an emphasis in Rehabilitative Counseling and minors in Art and Psychology at the University of Northern Colorado. I have a passion for providing an outlet for individuals to have a safe place to grow and reach their full potential.
I use system-based approaches, expressive arts, and mindfulness therapy in the treatment of various presenting issues.
I obtained my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy at Argosy University. I specialize in youth and family therapy, in Lakewood, CO. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. I hold certificates in systemic Art, Play, and Sandplay therapy. I earned my Bachelor's in Human Services with an emphasis in Rehabilitative Counseling and minors in Art and Psychology at the University of Northern Colorado. I have a passion for providing an outlet for individuals to have a safe place to grow and reach their full potential.
(720) 573-0584 View (720) 573-0584
Photo of Jea Theis Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jea Theis Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80123
I have specialized training in EMDR, Brainspotting, Expressive Arts Therapies, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-child Interaction Therapy, Reflective Practice and Compassion Fatigue.
Accepting new clients. "Your present circumstances do not determine where you will go, they merely determine where you have been " - Nido Qubein. I am so glad you are here. I believe in a strengths-based approach that honors the experiences and unique aspects of you and I have a passion for collaborating with clients for successful outcomes.
I have specialized training in EMDR, Brainspotting, Expressive Arts Therapies, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-child Interaction Therapy, Reflective Practice and Compassion Fatigue.
Accepting new clients. "Your present circumstances do not determine where you will go, they merely determine where you have been " - Nido Qubein. I am so glad you are here. I believe in a strengths-based approach that honors the experiences and unique aspects of you and I have a passion for collaborating with clients for successful outcomes.
(866) 885-2375 View (866) 885-2375
Photo of Mimi Connell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Mimi Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80221
I collaborate with each person to find what supports their journey best, whether that be walking and verbal processing, mindfulness and breathing, expressive arts activities, or simply a space to feel heard.
Being a human can be really hard, and having an empathetic person to talk to can feel like a breath of fresh air. I support people process difficult experiences so they can find more resilience and ease in their daily life. I enjoy working with adults and adolescence who: want to explore their relationship to their body and food, have experienced trauma, are experiencing a life transition, identify as neuordivergent, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach to therapy is grounded in a holistic, trauma informed and gender affirming perspective, seeing the whole person in front of me, and the systems and socialization that has shaped them.
I collaborate with each person to find what supports their journey best, whether that be walking and verbal processing, mindfulness and breathing, expressive arts activities, or simply a space to feel heard.
Being a human can be really hard, and having an empathetic person to talk to can feel like a breath of fresh air. I support people process difficult experiences so they can find more resilience and ease in their daily life. I enjoy working with adults and adolescence who: want to explore their relationship to their body and food, have experienced trauma, are experiencing a life transition, identify as neuordivergent, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach to therapy is grounded in a holistic, trauma informed and gender affirming perspective, seeing the whole person in front of me, and the systems and socialization that has shaped them.
(719) 751-6184 View (719) 751-6184
Photo of Magical Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Denver, CO
Magical Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80033  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling includes a depth and transpersonal orientation and tenets of the expressive arts.
Hi! My name is Naomi Sangreal, as a magical Jungian psychotherapist I believe in the importance of exploring your inner world and working synergistically with your personal path or tradition. Is your spiritual life an integral part of your mental health? Do you struggle with the same patterns over and over that contribute to the same missteps and painful outcomes? I work with neurodivergent, creative, highly sensitive, depressed and anxious human beings who want to connect more deeply with themselves, a sense of aliveness and the act of soul-making. Are you ready to embark upon the journey of individuation with an adept guide?
My approach to counseling includes a depth and transpersonal orientation and tenets of the expressive arts.
Hi! My name is Naomi Sangreal, as a magical Jungian psychotherapist I believe in the importance of exploring your inner world and working synergistically with your personal path or tradition. Is your spiritual life an integral part of your mental health? Do you struggle with the same patterns over and over that contribute to the same missteps and painful outcomes? I work with neurodivergent, creative, highly sensitive, depressed and anxious human beings who want to connect more deeply with themselves, a sense of aliveness and the act of soul-making. Are you ready to embark upon the journey of individuation with an adept guide?
(720) 759-2331 View (720) 759-2331
Photo of Samantha Harder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Samantha Harder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014
Hi there! My name is Sam. I am a trained person-centered therapist with 4 years of clinical experience working with clients of all ages. In my practice I use modalities and techniques including child-centered play therapy for children, along with talk therapy and expressive arts therapies for adolescents and adults. Depending on your needs, we may work on things like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, communication techniques, as well as crisis and trauma healing. I have a wide range of experience working with various client concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and life transitions.
Hi there! My name is Sam. I am a trained person-centered therapist with 4 years of clinical experience working with clients of all ages. In my practice I use modalities and techniques including child-centered play therapy for children, along with talk therapy and expressive arts therapies for adolescents and adults. Depending on your needs, we may work on things like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, communication techniques, as well as crisis and trauma healing. I have a wide range of experience working with various client concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, and life transitions.
(720) 796-4475 View (720) 796-4475
Photo of The Brave Women’s Transformation Project LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
The Brave Women’s Transformation Project LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDMT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80214
The Brave Women’s Transformation Project specializes in treating women who are suffering from a wide spectrum of anxiety symptoms, and who are ready to commit to becoming free from fear and moving towards creating a life based in bravery and passionate purpose. Treatments utilized include well researched psychotherapy techniques including CBT, ACT, and ERP, that have been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, in combination with expressive arts therapies (somatic and drama therapy) Each woman is provided with experiential/action oriented treatment interventions, and embodied learning so that they may live empowered and brave lives
The Brave Women’s Transformation Project specializes in treating women who are suffering from a wide spectrum of anxiety symptoms, and who are ready to commit to becoming free from fear and moving towards creating a life based in bravery and passionate purpose. Treatments utilized include well researched psychotherapy techniques including CBT, ACT, and ERP, that have been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, in combination with expressive arts therapies (somatic and drama therapy) Each woman is provided with experiential/action oriented treatment interventions, and embodied learning so that they may live empowered and brave lives
(720) 438-4481 View (720) 438-4481
Photo of Woodswalk Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Woodswalk Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
Making changes is hard. This is true whether you are exhausted and know something needs to change, are considering taking a stand against depression or anxiety, or are navigating through a major life transition: the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, the ending or beginning of a relationship, starting or changing a career. You don't need to do it alone. Feel like yourself again; our counselors can help.
Making changes is hard. This is true whether you are exhausted and know something needs to change, are considering taking a stand against depression or anxiety, or are navigating through a major life transition: the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, the ending or beginning of a relationship, starting or changing a career. You don't need to do it alone. Feel like yourself again; our counselors can help.
(720) 759-3840 View (720) 759-3840
Photo of Casey Dunne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Casey Dunne
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80214
I specialize in chronic pain/illness, complex trauma, sexual reclamation, and spiritual integration. As a somatic therapist, I believe that it is through working with the body and the mind together that the deepest healing is found. What if I invited you to dive as deeply into your shadows as you wish, and discover the gifts you’ve forgotten in your spirit and body? I invite you to embrace the parts of yourself that feel pain, anger, sadness, or afraid and offer them kindness, letting your emotions move in ways that are safe. I invite you to celebrate the glimmers of hope, the small moments of change, and feel proud of yourself.
I specialize in chronic pain/illness, complex trauma, sexual reclamation, and spiritual integration. As a somatic therapist, I believe that it is through working with the body and the mind together that the deepest healing is found. What if I invited you to dive as deeply into your shadows as you wish, and discover the gifts you’ve forgotten in your spirit and body? I invite you to embrace the parts of yourself that feel pain, anger, sadness, or afraid and offer them kindness, letting your emotions move in ways that are safe. I invite you to celebrate the glimmers of hope, the small moments of change, and feel proud of yourself.
(720) 802-6528 View (720) 802-6528
Photo of Laurel Cepero, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Laurel Cepero
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
I combine my experience as a trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness instructor with my knowledge of evidence-based counseling and love of experiential education. I work holistically to meet you where you are and incorporate creative interventions, somatic awareness, and immediacy in sessions. We will explore how you move through the world with your unique experiences, strengths, and identities and establish goals for therapy together. My practice focuses on older teens, adult women, and genderqueer individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, identity exploration, and the impact of trauma.
I combine my experience as a trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness instructor with my knowledge of evidence-based counseling and love of experiential education. I work holistically to meet you where you are and incorporate creative interventions, somatic awareness, and immediacy in sessions. We will explore how you move through the world with your unique experiences, strengths, and identities and establish goals for therapy together. My practice focuses on older teens, adult women, and genderqueer individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, identity exploration, and the impact of trauma.
(720) 713-6930 View (720) 713-6930
Photo of Stevenson Therapy Services @ The Carriage House, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Stevenson Therapy Services @ The Carriage House
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My name is Emily Izzo and I appreciate you taking the time to look at my professional page. I am currently seeing clients via Telehealth only. I am very passionate in guiding my clients on their journey towards living a mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically fulfilling life! I am a firm believer that all people have the skills and power within them to achieve the life they desire. I look at each client's strengths and individual circumstances and characteristics and walk aside them in their journey.
Hello and welcome! My name is Emily Izzo and I appreciate you taking the time to look at my professional page. I am currently seeing clients via Telehealth only. I am very passionate in guiding my clients on their journey towards living a mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically fulfilling life! I am a firm believer that all people have the skills and power within them to achieve the life they desire. I look at each client's strengths and individual circumstances and characteristics and walk aside them in their journey.
(720) 794-9834 View (720) 794-9834
Photo of Phebe Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Phebe Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
I work with kids, t(w)eens, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions (relationships, career/work, school), body image, identity/self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, and self-harm. I prioritize meeting every client and family where they are in order to formulate an individualized treatment plan that works best for you.
I work with kids, t(w)eens, and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions (relationships, career/work, school), body image, identity/self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues, and self-harm. I prioritize meeting every client and family where they are in order to formulate an individualized treatment plan that works best for you.
(720) 358-8744 View (720) 358-8744
Photo of Melissa McCormick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Melissa McCormick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80230
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
(720) 815-9644 View (720) 815-9644
Photo of AYCMARC of Denver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
AYCMARC of Denver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LMFTC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237  (Online Only)
AYCMARC, (We are open when everyone else is closed) asks you this question: true or false. The only person you can change is your self (surprise! answer). Hi my name is Mark M Miller. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and the founder of at Your Convenience Mental Health and Relationship Counseling of Denver (AYCMARC). The answer to the question is false. Psychology and systems theory show us that any change in the system (family, group or society) changes the system. Therefore a more truthful axiom is the only person you can willingly change is yourself.
AYCMARC, (We are open when everyone else is closed) asks you this question: true or false. The only person you can change is your self (surprise! answer). Hi my name is Mark M Miller. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and the founder of at Your Convenience Mental Health and Relationship Counseling of Denver (AYCMARC). The answer to the question is false. Psychology and systems theory show us that any change in the system (family, group or society) changes the system. Therefore a more truthful axiom is the only person you can willingly change is yourself.
(720) 386-4762 View (720) 386-4762
Expressive Arts Therapists

What happens in expressive arts therapy?

In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.

How long does expressive arts therapy take?

An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.

How does expressive arts therapy help children?

Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.

What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?

Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.