Art Therapy in Lakewood, CO

Photo of Front Desk - Solutions for Success Group, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solutions for Success Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226  (Online Only)
Welcome! We are creative and individualized in our approach, and we understand that a cookie cutter treatment plan is not the answer for you. We specialize in working with children, teenagers and adults with Autism and other developmental challenges while also supporting the family. We offer individual therapy, parent-child therapy, art therapy, and group therapy. No problem is too big or small, and we look forward to meeting you soon!
Welcome! We are creative and individualized in our approach, and we understand that a cookie cutter treatment plan is not the answer for you. We specialize in working with children, teenagers and adults with Autism and other developmental challenges while also supporting the family. We offer individual therapy, parent-child therapy, art therapy, and group therapy. No problem is too big or small, and we look forward to meeting you soon!
(720) 408-7956 View (720) 408-7956
Photo of Jackie Vonfeldt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jackie Vonfeldt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80228
As a clinician, entrepreneur, supervisor, & doctor-in-training, I have spent 10 years honing my craft: the art and science of relationship restoration.
The common saying "It’s about the journey, not the destination” certainly has its time and place. However, if there’s anything I’ve learned over more than a decade working with the havoc wreaked by trauma and relationships in crisis, it’s that the therapeutic journey ought to lead to a destination…and quick! When we spend years of our lives wrestling with the challenges of relationship distress, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and a whole lot of unhealthy coping mechanisms, in my humble opinion, this journey need not take until we’re old and gray or our most precious relationships have fallen ap art.
As a clinician, entrepreneur, supervisor, & doctor-in-training, I have spent 10 years honing my craft: the art and science of relationship restoration.
The common saying "It’s about the journey, not the destination” certainly has its time and place. However, if there’s anything I’ve learned over more than a decade working with the havoc wreaked by trauma and relationships in crisis, it’s that the therapeutic journey ought to lead to a destination…and quick! When we spend years of our lives wrestling with the challenges of relationship distress, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety and a whole lot of unhealthy coping mechanisms, in my humble opinion, this journey need not take until we’re old and gray or our most precious relationships have fallen ap art.
(720) 606-2626 View (720) 606-2626
Photo of Nicole Moore, BA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80232
I offer an eclectic approach that is specifically designed for each person's need based in evidence based modalities and blend holistic, ancestral, and art healing modalities with CBT, DBT, Client Centered, Transpersonal, art and Somatic approaches.
Nicole Moore-Abeyta LCSW is the owner and lead clinician At Compassionate Counseling of Denver where we weave ancestral healing, art therapy, and clinical psycho- therapeutic modalities. Her focus on mental health and holistic healing practices offer a unique combination of education, mobilization, and liberation through creative expression.  In addition to her private practice, she serves many non profits with mental health training in the Denver area and nation wide.
I offer an eclectic approach that is specifically designed for each person's need based in evidence based modalities and blend holistic, ancestral, and art healing modalities with CBT, DBT, Client Centered, Transpersonal, art and Somatic approaches.
Nicole Moore-Abeyta LCSW is the owner and lead clinician At Compassionate Counseling of Denver where we weave ancestral healing, art therapy, and clinical psycho- therapeutic modalities. Her focus on mental health and holistic healing practices offer a unique combination of education, mobilization, and liberation through creative expression.  In addition to her private practice, she serves many non profits with mental health training in the Denver area and nation wide.
(720) 743-4877 View (720) 743-4877
Photo of Sarah Swedlow - Now Taking New Clients, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Swedlow - Now Taking New Clients
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215
Her background in the expressive therapies offers creative complements to traditional talk therapy without requiring any background in art.
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
Her background in the expressive therapies offers creative complements to traditional talk therapy without requiring any background in art.
Schedule instantly through my website in my bio! Sarah earned her master’s degree in mental health counseling with a specialization in art therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Originally from Austin, Texas, she has a deep appreciation for art, music, and all other modalities of expression. Sarah works to provide a welcoming space for adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a client-centered approach to ensure you are receiving the kind of care you desire.
(303) 529-1703 View (303) 529-1703
Photo of Merissa Joy Pratt - Indigenous Art Therapy pllc, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Indigenous Art Therapy pllc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Indigenous Art Therapy is Native owned and two-spirit operated. Hesci! My name is Merissa. As a queer, bi-cultural woman my approach is trauma informed and intersectional, focusing on compounded challenges such as cultural background, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We will also focus on family systems and attachment styles. Together we will work to change patterns and defense mechanisms that may no longer serve you. We will creatively bring unconscious material into awareness offering a more balanced relationship with your Self, while integrating parts of you that have been abandoned, neglected, or forgotten.
Indigenous Art Therapy is Native owned and two-spirit operated. Hesci! My name is Merissa. As a queer, bi-cultural woman my approach is trauma informed and intersectional, focusing on compounded challenges such as cultural background, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We will also focus on family systems and attachment styles. Together we will work to change patterns and defense mechanisms that may no longer serve you. We will creatively bring unconscious material into awareness offering a more balanced relationship with your Self, while integrating parts of you that have been abandoned, neglected, or forgotten.
(720) 549-8679 View (720) 549-8679
Photo of Justien Evans, LPC, MFT, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justien Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
By having a background in play, art and sandplay therapy, I am able to connect with individuals that may not want to go the traditional route of talk therapy.
Hi name is Justien, she/her/hers, and I am the owner of Soothing Sands Therapy, LLC. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults. I am fascinated with how the brain works finding ways to make the growth process go as smoothly as possible. It is because of my interest in brain development that I have found alternative ways to do therapy other than talking. When we think about adolescent and adolescent years, we just want to survive it but my passion is to help others not only get through it, but thrive through those years. I am also available to provide supervision to individuals in candidacy.
By having a background in play, art and sandplay therapy, I am able to connect with individuals that may not want to go the traditional route of talk therapy.
Hi name is Justien, she/her/hers, and I am the owner of Soothing Sands Therapy, LLC. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults. I am fascinated with how the brain works finding ways to make the growth process go as smoothly as possible. It is because of my interest in brain development that I have found alternative ways to do therapy other than talking. When we think about adolescent and adolescent years, we just want to survive it but my passion is to help others not only get through it, but thrive through those years. I am also available to provide supervision to individuals in candidacy.
(720) 575-0992 View (720) 575-0992
Photo of Lacie Killion, LMFT, LAC , RPT, CSST, CSPT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lacie Killion
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMFT, LAC , RPT, CSST, CSPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80235
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 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 Cassie Gabriel, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassie Gabriel
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80214  (Online Only)
I am licensed in both CO and CA, and hold a national credential as an Art Therapist.
My goal is to empower clients to take steps towards a life they desire by building awareness and resiliency. I wish to create a supportive space to explore what is no longer working in your life. My focus is with young adult women and adolescents who might be struggling to love themselves, who want to understand how emotional wounds impact our connection with those closest to us, are seeking to heal relationships, increase trust in themselves and their own inner wisdom.
I am licensed in both CO and CA, and hold a national credential as an Art Therapist.
My goal is to empower clients to take steps towards a life they desire by building awareness and resiliency. I wish to create a supportive space to explore what is no longer working in your life. My focus is with young adult women and adolescents who might be struggling to love themselves, who want to understand how emotional wounds impact our connection with those closest to us, are seeking to heal relationships, increase trust in themselves and their own inner wisdom.
(720) 734-7663 View (720) 734-7663
Photo of Leticia Encarnacion, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Leticia Encarnacion
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80228
I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with a mix of Art Expression and Mindfulness practices, empowering you to find your inner guidance, honor your values, and take action to improve your mental health for a meaningful, satisfying life.
The process of self-discovery can be both incredibly difficult and immensely satisfying. Sometimes we seek it out, yet at other times it finds us through painful and uncomfortable experiences. At the core of my work is a deep respect for your lived experiences and perspectives, while keeping a curious mind to better understand your inner systems.
I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with a mix of Art Expression and Mindfulness practices, empowering you to find your inner guidance, honor your values, and take action to improve your mental health for a meaningful, satisfying life.
The process of self-discovery can be both incredibly difficult and immensely satisfying. Sometimes we seek it out, yet at other times it finds us through painful and uncomfortable experiences. At the core of my work is a deep respect for your lived experiences and perspectives, while keeping a curious mind to better understand your inner systems.
(720) 573-2579 View (720) 573-2579
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80123
Violence/Abuse, IFS, EFT, Caregiver Support, Autism, Behavior probs, art therapy, life transitions, personality disorders, bariatric evaluations.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Violence/Abuse, IFS, EFT, Caregiver Support, Autism, Behavior probs, art therapy, life transitions, personality disorders, bariatric evaluations.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Alysia H Patel, MPhEd, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alysia H Patel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPhEd, MSEd
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80214  (Online Only)
Over the course of my 8 years as a mental health professional, my multi-faceted experiences have spanned across children, adolescents, young adults and families in a variety of communities, schools, day treatment centers and rehabilitation centers. I offer online counseling sessions at this time. I utilize evidence based models including play and art therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-based Therapy, and Solution-focused Therapy in sessions.
Over the course of my 8 years as a mental health professional, my multi-faceted experiences have spanned across children, adolescents, young adults and families in a variety of communities, schools, day treatment centers and rehabilitation centers. I offer online counseling sessions at this time. I utilize evidence based models including play and art therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Strength-based Therapy, and Solution-focused Therapy in sessions.
(720) 664-2375 View (720) 664-2375
Photo of Laurel Nook, MA, LPCC, NCC
Laurel Nook
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80232
Laurel is a dedicated therapist passionate about fostering emotional growth and healing through both traditional and creative therapeutic methods. Along with psychotherapy, she encourages creative expression using art, sandplay, nature, and play therapy techniques, helping clients of all ages connect more deeply with their emotions.
Laurel is a dedicated therapist passionate about fostering emotional growth and healing through both traditional and creative therapeutic methods. Along with psychotherapy, she encourages creative expression using art, sandplay, nature, and play therapy techniques, helping clients of all ages connect more deeply with their emotions.
(720) 613-6248 View (720) 613-6248
Photo of Mavis Salazar - Mavis Salazar - Holistic Curandera, Registered Psychotherapist
Mavis Salazar - Holistic Curandera
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Mavis Salazar is an interactive, solution-focused registered physiotherapist. Using traditional methods her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Using traditional and transitional methods, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression, grief counseling, trauma release to parenting support, adolescent support, domestic relationships, and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
Mavis Salazar is an interactive, solution-focused registered physiotherapist. Using traditional methods her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Using traditional and transitional methods, I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression, grief counseling, trauma release to parenting support, adolescent support, domestic relationships, and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my client's individual needs to help attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(720) 613-2286 View (720) 613-2286
Photo of Michael Hardin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Hardin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
I provide community based services using a variety of techniques. People truly desire happiness and want to perform at their highest levels but life places "blocks" that prevent them from reaching those goals. By removing the "blocks" I can assist the client in finding pleasure and success in life. My unique educational and professional background of Clinical and Sport & Performance Psychology as well as 8 years experience of being a licensed special education teacher enables me to provide a combination of services unlike that of any other clinician in the state. Technology is also a staple of my practice.
I provide community based services using a variety of techniques. People truly desire happiness and want to perform at their highest levels but life places "blocks" that prevent them from reaching those goals. By removing the "blocks" I can assist the client in finding pleasure and success in life. My unique educational and professional background of Clinical and Sport & Performance Psychology as well as 8 years experience of being a licensed special education teacher enables me to provide a combination of services unlike that of any other clinician in the state. Technology is also a staple of my practice.
(720) 513-2646 View (720) 513-2646
Photo of Jennifer Head, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Head
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226  (Online Only)
OCD Intensives for Adults, call! When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities. Serves: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas.
OCD Intensives for Adults, call! When struggling with anxiety or stress small tasks, feel like mountains. Activities that used to bring you joy have become similar to your list of chores. A strong support system is crucial, people that care about your well-being and want to see you reach your goals. Therapy can be a powerful addition to your life. It provides a safe space for conversations to flow, in turn promoting validation, skill-building, goal-realization, and emotional-processing. Therapy has the ability to open the door for countless interpersonal and intrapersonal growth opportunities. Serves: Colorado, Montana, and Kansas.
(720) 702-4945 View (720) 702-4945
Photo of Sarah McCoy, LPCC
Sarah McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80235
I'm excited to be p art of Kikta Behavioral Health, where we deliver high-quality care using evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
As a graduate from an accredited university, I am trained in providing evidence-based therapy to individuals of all ages, faith backgrounds, and identities. My experience includes working with children and adolescents through both play and talk therapy, as well as supporting adults in navigating their unique challenges. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, I’m here to offer compassionate, personalized care tailored to your needs. Let’s work together to achieve meaningful growth and healing.
I'm excited to be p art of Kikta Behavioral Health, where we deliver high-quality care using evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
As a graduate from an accredited university, I am trained in providing evidence-based therapy to individuals of all ages, faith backgrounds, and identities. My experience includes working with children and adolescents through both play and talk therapy, as well as supporting adults in navigating their unique challenges. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, I’m here to offer compassionate, personalized care tailored to your needs. Let’s work together to achieve meaningful growth and healing.
(844) 908-0896 View (844) 908-0896
Photo of Autumn Robida, MA, NCC, LPCC
Autumn Robida
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MA, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226
Maybe a p art of you is nervous to st art therapy, but maybe another p art of you is excited to get unstuck and live in alignment with your authentic self.
Hello! My name is Autumn, and I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that you are hurting. You’re seeking support because you’ve been going through a lot, and you just can’t seem to make sense of it. The good news is- you are not alone, and I’m here to help. I know it can be rough out there sometimes. Life can leave us feeling stuck and heavy, and we crave relief and fulfillment. Whether you're navigating life transitions, hoping to address mental health concerns, having difficulties in relationships, or seeking personal growth, together we can develop tools to manage the ups and downs and empower you to thrive.
Maybe a p art of you is nervous to st art therapy, but maybe another p art of you is excited to get unstuck and live in alignment with your authentic self.
Hello! My name is Autumn, and I have some good news and some bad news. The bad news is that you are hurting. You’re seeking support because you’ve been going through a lot, and you just can’t seem to make sense of it. The good news is- you are not alone, and I’m here to help. I know it can be rough out there sometimes. Life can leave us feeling stuck and heavy, and we crave relief and fulfillment. Whether you're navigating life transitions, hoping to address mental health concerns, having difficulties in relationships, or seeking personal growth, together we can develop tools to manage the ups and downs and empower you to thrive.
(720) 303-5497 View (720) 303-5497
Photo of Alyse Munoz - Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management, LCSW, LPC, MFT, LAC, PMHNP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR & Med Management
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, MFT, LAC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80215  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings > book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings > book instantly through our website in bio! We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 706-2972 View (720) 706-2972
Photo of Tammis Jahn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammis Jahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80232
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
I love hearing your story, we all have one but has anyone taken the time to really listen to yours? I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds, struggling with different issues or just needing a safe place to talk about your thoughts and ideas. I have worked with addiction and substance abuse for over ten years as well as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, veterans, children, couples/family & trauma. I am someone who enjoys watching my clients' journey and show them a different perspective. I am real and down to earth and love getting to know people. I do a free consult so we can make sure that we are a good fit.
(720) 492-1069 View (720) 492-1069
Photo of Samantha Sitarik, LPCC, MA
Samantha Sitarik
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Are you feeling shrouded in shame and confusion about your sexual desires or identity? Do activities that once brought feelings of closeness and pleasure now bring up loneliness and uncertainty? Sexual issues are completely normal, and you nor your partner are broken. My goal is to help you move towards feeling self-empowered and comfortable in your own skin. Sex and sexual identity are very personal topics that can feel embarrassing or isolating to speak to someone about - everyone is deserving of happiness and inner peace, and I am committed to helping you find your voice so you can advocate for your needs and desires.
Are you feeling shrouded in shame and confusion about your sexual desires or identity? Do activities that once brought feelings of closeness and pleasure now bring up loneliness and uncertainty? Sexual issues are completely normal, and you nor your partner are broken. My goal is to help you move towards feeling self-empowered and comfortable in your own skin. Sex and sexual identity are very personal topics that can feel embarrassing or isolating to speak to someone about - everyone is deserving of happiness and inner peace, and I am committed to helping you find your voice so you can advocate for your needs and desires.
(720) 902-6973 View (720) 902-6973
1
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.