Art Therapy in Highlands Ranch, CO

Photo of Meggan Grant, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meggan Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Meggan also serves on the Colorado Art Therapy Association board as Art Show/Education chair and is committed to social justice and healing in communities.
Meggan Grant is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) who earned her Master’s Degree in Art Therapy with an emphasis in Counseling from Mount Mary University. Her core values stem from the philosophy that the creative process can develop a deeper understanding of self, aiding in connection, healing and transformation. Meggan has years of experience working with adolescents, adults and families, joining with clients to provide integrative and effective care, being mindful of keeping the client at the center of treatment.
Meggan also serves on the Colorado Art Therapy Association board as Art Show/Education chair and is committed to social justice and healing in communities.
Meggan Grant is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) who earned her Master’s Degree in Art Therapy with an emphasis in Counseling from Mount Mary University. Her core values stem from the philosophy that the creative process can develop a deeper understanding of self, aiding in connection, healing and transformation. Meggan has years of experience working with adolescents, adults and families, joining with clients to provide integrative and effective care, being mindful of keeping the client at the center of treatment.
(720) 575-8561 View (720) 575-8561
Photo of Nina Danhorn, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Danhorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
Using mediums of art, sand, collage, mindfulness, storytelling and journaling, combined with applied existential therapy, Gestalt, parts work, Sandplay, Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR and DBT, I can help connect you to your true self, honor your goals and dreams, find effective ways for effective self-care, self-acceptance and peace.
As an intuitive trauma and grief counselor, I am deeply committed to helping my clients find true healing from complex PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I am passionate about providing solution focused and lasting results on your journey to a happy life you truly deserve. I am an EMDR certified, DBT, IFS, Sandplay and Expressive Arts, Somatic Experiencing trained clinician with 15 years of experience in depth counseling. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. I continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay up-to-date with latest research and therapeutic techniques.
Using mediums of art, sand, collage, mindfulness, storytelling and journaling, combined with applied existential therapy, Gestalt, parts work, Sandplay, Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR and DBT, I can help connect you to your true self, honor your goals and dreams, find effective ways for effective self-care, self-acceptance and peace.
As an intuitive trauma and grief counselor, I am deeply committed to helping my clients find true healing from complex PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety and depression. I am passionate about providing solution focused and lasting results on your journey to a happy life you truly deserve. I am an EMDR certified, DBT, IFS, Sandplay and Expressive Arts, Somatic Experiencing trained clinician with 15 years of experience in depth counseling. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. I continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay up-to-date with latest research and therapeutic techniques.
(720) 868-9783 View (720) 868-9783
Photo of Lys-An Record, MFT-C, MA, EMDR
Lys-An Record
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MFT-C, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80130
Lys-An is an MFT-C working from Castle Rock, Colorado. She obtained a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from the University of Notre Dame de Namur in Belmont California in 2004. She has several trainings and certificates including EMDR, Gottman Level 2, EFT, and RLT. Lys-An believes developing loving, secure and confident relationships with ourselves and those we cherish, rooted in integrity and compassion is life's most meaningful pursuit. The high vale inherent in these relationships can make connection difficult. It is in this struggle that we can grow into our best selves.
Lys-An is an MFT-C working from Castle Rock, Colorado. She obtained a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from the University of Notre Dame de Namur in Belmont California in 2004. She has several trainings and certificates including EMDR, Gottman Level 2, EFT, and RLT. Lys-An believes developing loving, secure and confident relationships with ourselves and those we cherish, rooted in integrity and compassion is life's most meaningful pursuit. The high vale inherent in these relationships can make connection difficult. It is in this struggle that we can grow into our best selves.
(303) 493-9463 View (303) 493-9463
Photo of Leigh Bates, LPC, RPT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents.
As parents, often face several pain points when considering therapy for their child, such as concerns about stigma, fear of labeling, uncertainty about the therapeutic process, and worries about the child's comfort and willingness to participate. At Creative Counseling in Colorado, we address these concerns by providing a warm, non-judgmental environment where children feel safe and understood. We use a personalized approach, incorporating play, art, and other creative therapies to make sessions engaging and non-intimidating.
I am a Licensed Professional Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor who loves using Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions as a safe and fun way to connect with children and adolescents.
As parents, often face several pain points when considering therapy for their child, such as concerns about stigma, fear of labeling, uncertainty about the therapeutic process, and worries about the child's comfort and willingness to participate. At Creative Counseling in Colorado, we address these concerns by providing a warm, non-judgmental environment where children feel safe and understood. We use a personalized approach, incorporating play, art, and other creative therapies to make sessions engaging and non-intimidating.
(720) 730-3143 View (720) 730-3143
Photo of Mackenzie Hall, LSW, MSW
Mackenzie Hall
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
Mackenzie is a Licensed Social Worker who received both her Master’s in Social Work and Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Wyoming. She loves working with people of all ages and backgrounds. She utilizes therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psycho-dynamic and Art Therapy. Mackenzie tailors each treatment and plan to each individual client to best meet their goals and needs. She knows that therapy can be intimidating, her goal is to empower clients by providing an environment that is supportive, safe and affirming for identities at all intersections.
Mackenzie is a Licensed Social Worker who received both her Master’s in Social Work and Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Wyoming. She loves working with people of all ages and backgrounds. She utilizes therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psycho-dynamic and Art Therapy. Mackenzie tailors each treatment and plan to each individual client to best meet their goals and needs. She knows that therapy can be intimidating, her goal is to empower clients by providing an environment that is supportive, safe and affirming for identities at all intersections.
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Photo of Katie Ann Fox Turner, MA, LPCC
Katie Ann Fox Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
I use techniques from mindfulness, play therapy and art therapy to offer a diverse set of tools to meet the client where they are in a way that is comfortable and safe.
My clients find themselves struggling with family satisfaction, divorce, anxiety, depression, and coparenting challenges. Finding a safe place for you to be heard and seen is my goal. I work with individuals, families, couples, and kids. Family therapy is a great space to establish a foundation for peace within your home. Reunification therapy is creating space for healing of a parent child relationship where appropriate. Additionally, I offer therapeutic visitation or Family Time/Supervised Parenting.
I use techniques from mindfulness, play therapy and art therapy to offer a diverse set of tools to meet the client where they are in a way that is comfortable and safe.
My clients find themselves struggling with family satisfaction, divorce, anxiety, depression, and coparenting challenges. Finding a safe place for you to be heard and seen is my goal. I work with individuals, families, couples, and kids. Family therapy is a great space to establish a foundation for peace within your home. Reunification therapy is creating space for healing of a parent child relationship where appropriate. Additionally, I offer therapeutic visitation or Family Time/Supervised Parenting.
(720) 637-1042 View (720) 637-1042
Photo of Kori A Clark - Kori Clark-Integrative Counseling and Art Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kori Clark-Integrative Counseling and Art Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124  (Online Only)
I am an Art Therapist and EMDRIA trained practitioner.
Now more than ever people are struggling and feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about life. Do you feel disconnected and lost? I provide a safe place for clients to feel heard and understood in their own life experiences. I meet people where they are at, sit with them in their current feelings and emotional states and support them to move through these states. My job is to empower you to harness your inner strengths, develop self-agency through self-regulation, and teach you a few things along the way. My main goal is to guide you inward to a place of knowing and healing.
I am an Art Therapist and EMDRIA trained practitioner.
Now more than ever people are struggling and feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about life. Do you feel disconnected and lost? I provide a safe place for clients to feel heard and understood in their own life experiences. I meet people where they are at, sit with them in their current feelings and emotional states and support them to move through these states. My job is to empower you to harness your inner strengths, develop self-agency through self-regulation, and teach you a few things along the way. My main goal is to guide you inward to a place of knowing and healing.
(720) 790-7226 View (720) 790-7226
Photo of Kim Bloom, MDiv, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kim Bloom
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Life can be hard. Changes, whether thrust upon us or of our own making, can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling isolated. Perhaps your relationship that was once fulfilling now feels lifeless. That meaningful career you chose has become stalled. Your excitement of becoming an adult and living on your own is now daunting and overwhelming. An illness or death have thrown your calm life into chaos. An act of violence or trauma leave you feeling afraid and isolated. My life’s work has been coming alongside people like you, as they cope with and grow from various life challenges.
Life can be hard. Changes, whether thrust upon us or of our own making, can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling isolated. Perhaps your relationship that was once fulfilling now feels lifeless. That meaningful career you chose has become stalled. Your excitement of becoming an adult and living on your own is now daunting and overwhelming. An illness or death have thrown your calm life into chaos. An act of violence or trauma leave you feeling afraid and isolated. My life’s work has been coming alongside people like you, as they cope with and grow from various life challenges.
(720) 817-5993 View (720) 817-5993
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 747-4067 View (303) 747-4067
Photo of Catie Pfeiffer, BA, LPC Intern
Catie Pfeiffer
LPC Intern, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
The first crucial step is to reach out and st art looking for help.
My ideal client would be open to growth and challenge while thriving in a space of safety and comfort. All clients come to therapy with their own unique experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and I love to support all of these as p art of the whole individual in front of me. I'm looking to help individuals learn to love their whole selves through unconditional positive regard and beneficial practices.
The first crucial step is to reach out and st art looking for help.
My ideal client would be open to growth and challenge while thriving in a space of safety and comfort. All clients come to therapy with their own unique experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and I love to support all of these as p art of the whole individual in front of me. I'm looking to help individuals learn to love their whole selves through unconditional positive regard and beneficial practices.
(720) 802-0542 View (720) 802-0542
Photo of Vioneth Villatoro-Ramirez, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vioneth Villatoro-Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126  (Online Only)
BILINGUAL!!! Español/English. ¿Está abrumado, deprimido o con ansiedad? ¿Una experiencia del pasado le está afectando? ¿Ha sido victima de adulterio, violencia doméstica o está en una mala relación? ¿Le preocupa que la terapia no sea eficaz? Buscar ayuda profesional es una decisión importante y sabia. Encontrar un terapeuta capacitado y compasivo hace una gran diferencia. Permítame ayudarle. Are you overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Victim of adultery, domestic violence or in a bad relationship? Beginning therapy is an important and wise decision. A trained professional can make a difference. Let me help you.
BILINGUAL!!! Español/English. ¿Está abrumado, deprimido o con ansiedad? ¿Una experiencia del pasado le está afectando? ¿Ha sido victima de adulterio, violencia doméstica o está en una mala relación? ¿Le preocupa que la terapia no sea eficaz? Buscar ayuda profesional es una decisión importante y sabia. Encontrar un terapeuta capacitado y compasivo hace una gran diferencia. Permítame ayudarle. Are you overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Victim of adultery, domestic violence or in a bad relationship? Beginning therapy is an important and wise decision. A trained professional can make a difference. Let me help you.
(720) 712-1479 View (720) 712-1479
Photo of Kristel Champeau - Kristel Champeau's Mental Health Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristel Champeau's Mental Health Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80130
As a therapist I am dedicated to helping and supporting children, adolescents and their families as a whole. I strive to help others recognize and strengthen their abilities to cope and problem solve for past, current and future situations, and in the process they grow and heal mentally, emotionally and physically. I am here to listen, hear and understand with an open mind. I have experience with working with kids who have anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, ADHD, as well as kids who struggle with expressing or being able to regulate their emotions.
As a therapist I am dedicated to helping and supporting children, adolescents and their families as a whole. I strive to help others recognize and strengthen their abilities to cope and problem solve for past, current and future situations, and in the process they grow and heal mentally, emotionally and physically. I am here to listen, hear and understand with an open mind. I have experience with working with kids who have anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, ADHD, as well as kids who struggle with expressing or being able to regulate their emotions.
(720) 408-2799 View (720) 408-2799
Photo of Dr. Bev Priest, PhD, MPhil, LPC
Dr. Bev Priest
PhD, MPhil, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
I believe; gaining insight and understanding, feeling more hopeful, knowing someone is there to listen, and being in a safe and non-judgmental environment, are just some of the important keys to therapy. One of the most difficult and courageous things someone can do is to walk into a clinician's office and ask for help. Sometimes people may hesitate to seek help because they feel alone in their pain or that no one will understand them. I work with clients ages two and older, from diverse cultural groups, and foster an atmosphere of understanding across these various age and cultural groups.
I believe; gaining insight and understanding, feeling more hopeful, knowing someone is there to listen, and being in a safe and non-judgmental environment, are just some of the important keys to therapy. One of the most difficult and courageous things someone can do is to walk into a clinician's office and ask for help. Sometimes people may hesitate to seek help because they feel alone in their pain or that no one will understand them. I work with clients ages two and older, from diverse cultural groups, and foster an atmosphere of understanding across these various age and cultural groups.
(720) 712-1486 View (720) 712-1486
Photo of April Thompson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
I specialize with Children, Teen Girls, Parent Education, as well as young adult females, post-divorce support for women, and christian pre-marital. I offer in-person office, telehealth, and in nature (park, garden, hike) sessions. I have extensive experience with at-risk & foster youth, adoption, child abuse, self harm, and divorced and blended families. My workshops include: Mothers & Daughter Wellness, Empowering Women Post-Divorce, Writing a new story for your life (women 20+), Setting Boundaries with friends & dating, and Dealing with overwhelming and anxious thoughts.
I specialize with Children, Teen Girls, Parent Education, as well as young adult females, post-divorce support for women, and christian pre-marital. I offer in-person office, telehealth, and in nature (park, garden, hike) sessions. I have extensive experience with at-risk & foster youth, adoption, child abuse, self harm, and divorced and blended families. My workshops include: Mothers & Daughter Wellness, Empowering Women Post-Divorce, Writing a new story for your life (women 20+), Setting Boundaries with friends & dating, and Dealing with overwhelming and anxious thoughts.
(720) 897-3724 View (720) 897-3724
Photo of Tamera Fernando, MA, AT, LPC, NCC, NPT-C, Counselor
Tamera Fernando
Counselor, MA, AT, LPC, NCC, NPT-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
Our foundational beliefs, values, experiences, and attitudes are the foundation upon which everything that comes into our lives is built. Like building a home, if a stone in the foundation is skewed, the house is structurally compromised. When we experience trauma or negative experiences, everything that touches upon that foundation is compromised. This can lead to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, and a loss of life direction, just to name a few possible results. We all can restructure our lives through processing and perspective.
Our foundational beliefs, values, experiences, and attitudes are the foundation upon which everything that comes into our lives is built. Like building a home, if a stone in the foundation is skewed, the house is structurally compromised. When we experience trauma or negative experiences, everything that touches upon that foundation is compromised. This can lead to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, PTSD, and a loss of life direction, just to name a few possible results. We all can restructure our lives through processing and perspective.
(720) 868-9414 View (720) 868-9414
Photo of Necia Weimer, LPC, MFT, MFT-S
Necia Weimer
LPC, MFT, MFT-S
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126  (Online Only)
I love helping couples, parents and families work through a variety of different issues. I work with clients struggling with relationship concerns, behavior problems, anxiety, depression, communication, and more. I enjoy working with those going through transitions and bring an engaging approach to ensuring clients feel supported. With a bachelor's in early childhood, I also enjoy helping clients explore their pasts and how those early years impact us now. I have a passion for helping parents or those becoming parents to increase their toolbox to better obtain healthy relationships.
I love helping couples, parents and families work through a variety of different issues. I work with clients struggling with relationship concerns, behavior problems, anxiety, depression, communication, and more. I enjoy working with those going through transitions and bring an engaging approach to ensuring clients feel supported. With a bachelor's in early childhood, I also enjoy helping clients explore their pasts and how those early years impact us now. I have a passion for helping parents or those becoming parents to increase their toolbox to better obtain healthy relationships.
(720) 282-0527 View (720) 282-0527
Photo of Samantha Kostamo, LPCC, MA
Samantha Kostamo
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
I work with a wide variety of clients including individuals, couples, children, teens, families and much of the in between. I also specialize in working with individuals that struggle with addictions, those who have been impacted by trauma and/or crisis, and first responders or members of the military. I have a client-centered therapeutic approach that values gaining insight around the unique experiences and considerations brought to session. Primary modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, solution focused therapy, and trauma-focused modalities.
I work with a wide variety of clients including individuals, couples, children, teens, families and much of the in between. I also specialize in working with individuals that struggle with addictions, those who have been impacted by trauma and/or crisis, and first responders or members of the military. I have a client-centered therapeutic approach that values gaining insight around the unique experiences and considerations brought to session. Primary modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, solution focused therapy, and trauma-focused modalities.
(720) 571-8895 View (720) 571-8895
Photo of Amy Kovacs, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Kovacs
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Welcome! I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to find the right therapist for yourself or your child. Having been through my own healing journey, I understand the challenge of opening up to someone new. So, here’s a little about me to help you decide if we’re a good fit! We all have our struggles and highs and lows, and I'm no exception. I may not have all the answers, but I’m here to walk alongside you, offering support and helping you find your own way forward. Whether it's about managing anxiety, strengthening relationships, or navigating life's curve balls, we can work together to create a plan for lasting change.
Welcome! I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to find the right therapist for yourself or your child. Having been through my own healing journey, I understand the challenge of opening up to someone new. So, here’s a little about me to help you decide if we’re a good fit! We all have our struggles and highs and lows, and I'm no exception. I may not have all the answers, but I’m here to walk alongside you, offering support and helping you find your own way forward. Whether it's about managing anxiety, strengthening relationships, or navigating life's curve balls, we can work together to create a plan for lasting change.
(720) 637-5466 View (720) 637-5466
Photo of Kathryn Marie Mathis, MA, LPC, RPT, SPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Marie Mathis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, SPT
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
If you are struggling and feel helpless in knowing how to best support your child, there is hope. Whatever your situation--whether your child has anxiety, recurring outbursts, or he/she is exhibiting physical symptoms like an upset stomach or bed wetting--I can help by creating a welcoming space for your child to communicate via play therapy. Play is the language of children and by using research informed methods & building authentic relationships, I can help your child (and you) learn to regulate through challenging emotions, process painful experiences, and learn new ways of relating and becoming his/her authentic self.
If you are struggling and feel helpless in knowing how to best support your child, there is hope. Whatever your situation--whether your child has anxiety, recurring outbursts, or he/she is exhibiting physical symptoms like an upset stomach or bed wetting--I can help by creating a welcoming space for your child to communicate via play therapy. Play is the language of children and by using research informed methods & building authentic relationships, I can help your child (and you) learn to regulate through challenging emotions, process painful experiences, and learn new ways of relating and becoming his/her authentic self.
(844) 824-1748 View (844) 824-1748
Photo of Julia Nord, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Julia Nord
Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124
Afternoon and evening appointments available. Are you feeling stuck? We get more and more things added to our plates and it can feel overwhelming and exhausting. As your therapist, I will help you create a toolbox of coping strategies, build resiliency, shift perspective, and analyze the external/societal influences affecting your experience. I work with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds to figure out the messiness of life while being culturally sensitive, and trauma and neuro-informed.
Afternoon and evening appointments available. Are you feeling stuck? We get more and more things added to our plates and it can feel overwhelming and exhausting. As your therapist, I will help you create a toolbox of coping strategies, build resiliency, shift perspective, and analyze the external/societal influences affecting your experience. I work with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds to figure out the messiness of life while being culturally sensitive, and trauma and neuro-informed.
(720) 664-9229 View (720) 664-9229
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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.