Art Therapy in Shaw, Washington, DC

Photo of Strother Gaines, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Strother Gaines
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Serves Area
My ideal client is seeking more than traditional therapy. They want creative, playful ways to reconnect with joy and their authentic self. They may be navigating complex identities and need a supportive space to explore these. Often, they feel stuck or disconnected due to trauma, societal/familial expectations, or a desire for deeper self-awareness. Their goals may be about rediscovering their creativity, unlocking/understanding parts of their identity, and building deeper, more authentic connections in their relationships. They come to me ready for a dynamic, interactive approach that fosters growth and healing.
My ideal client is seeking more than traditional therapy. They want creative, playful ways to reconnect with joy and their authentic self. They may be navigating complex identities and need a supportive space to explore these. Often, they feel stuck or disconnected due to trauma, societal/familial expectations, or a desire for deeper self-awareness. Their goals may be about rediscovering their creativity, unlocking/understanding parts of their identity, and building deeper, more authentic connections in their relationships. They come to me ready for a dynamic, interactive approach that fosters growth and healing.
(202) 410-8921 View (202) 410-8921
Photo of Sarah Pitkin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, ATR-BC
Sarah Pitkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, ATR-BC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilize an integrated approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed therapy, positive psychology, EMDR and art therapy.
I'm a licensed professional counselor located in Alexandria, VA but I'm also licensed to provide virtual therapy to clients in Washington DC, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. As daily life becomes more complex, many individuals face challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, difficulty balancing work and life, and unresolved trauma. If you've been thinking about starting therapy, but unsure if now is the right time... I assure you now is the right time.
I utilize an integrated approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-informed therapy, positive psychology, EMDR and art therapy.
I'm a licensed professional counselor located in Alexandria, VA but I'm also licensed to provide virtual therapy to clients in Washington DC, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. As daily life becomes more complex, many individuals face challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, difficulty balancing work and life, and unresolved trauma. If you've been thinking about starting therapy, but unsure if now is the right time... I assure you now is the right time.
(571) 470-5143 View (571) 470-5143
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Ehrhardt - Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s often the first toward meaningful insight and lasting personal growth. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Our approach is tailored to you—whether you’re working through past experiences, navigating present challenges, or seeking greater balance in your life. You don’t have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment where you feel comfortable sharing openly and working toward change.
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s often the first toward meaningful insight and lasting personal growth. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process. Our approach is tailored to you—whether you’re working through past experiences, navigating present challenges, or seeking greater balance in your life. You don’t have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment where you feel comfortable sharing openly and working toward change.
(202) 642-6661 View (202) 642-6661
Photo of Jason Hovey - Rogue River Counseling and Recovery Group, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
Rogue River Counseling and Recovery Group
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are dedicated to walking alongside clients from all backgrounds who are struggling with the burden of trauma, particularly those traumas which stem from broken relationships, betrayal, neglect, sexual or behavioral addictions, and abuse in its many forms. These can wreak havoc on one's own life, and leave a wake of pain and betrayal in the lives of those who are connected with them. If you relate to this chaos, we are very aware of the shame, pain and confusion you feel. If you are the partner or family member of someone weighed down with this trauma, we understand your despair, confusion, and anger, too.
We are dedicated to walking alongside clients from all backgrounds who are struggling with the burden of trauma, particularly those traumas which stem from broken relationships, betrayal, neglect, sexual or behavioral addictions, and abuse in its many forms. These can wreak havoc on one's own life, and leave a wake of pain and betrayal in the lives of those who are connected with them. If you relate to this chaos, we are very aware of the shame, pain and confusion you feel. If you are the partner or family member of someone weighed down with this trauma, we understand your despair, confusion, and anger, too.
(410) 421-7371 View (410) 421-7371
Photo of Mavis Xu, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Mavis Xu
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel unheard or unappreciated, carrying heavy burdens, or find your relationships strained by overwhelming emotions? Clients seek counseling for many reasons. Some need a safe, supportive space to be heard when they lack that elsewhere. While friends and family can offer care, they may not provide the professional help or treatment needed. Others struggle to express their thoughts or feel lost and need guidance. I believe that everyone deserves a place where they feel understood and cared for, and I’m here to listen and support your growth.
Do you feel unheard or unappreciated, carrying heavy burdens, or find your relationships strained by overwhelming emotions? Clients seek counseling for many reasons. Some need a safe, supportive space to be heard when they lack that elsewhere. While friends and family can offer care, they may not provide the professional help or treatment needed. Others struggle to express their thoughts or feel lost and need guidance. I believe that everyone deserves a place where they feel understood and cared for, and I’m here to listen and support your growth.
(443) 972-5940 View (443) 972-5940
Photo of Petey Horton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Petey Horton
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling.
I'm a laughter enthusiast who brings warmth, humor, and a down to earth vibe to every session. Whether I'm guiding someone through a tough conversation or making art in my studio, my goal is always the same: to help people feel safe, valued, and free to be exactly who they are.
I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling.
I'm a laughter enthusiast who brings warmth, humor, and a down to earth vibe to every session. Whether I'm guiding someone through a tough conversation or making art in my studio, my goal is always the same: to help people feel safe, valued, and free to be exactly who they are.
(703) 457-8665 View (703) 457-8665
Photo of Lottena Wolters - The FL Wolters Group, PLLC, Counselor, LPC
The FL Wolters Group, PLLC
Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you grappling with intense emotions or painful memories, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw, avoid, or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes them feel worse. You probably long for more effective ways to cope, handle your emotions, and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Are you grappling with intense emotions or painful memories, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw, avoid, or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes them feel worse. You probably long for more effective ways to cope, handle your emotions, and work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(833) 856-6356 View (833) 856-6356
Photo of Alyssa Goggan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Alyssa Goggan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Art therapy offers a creative, grounding way to process experiences beyond words while building tools for regulation, self-compassion, and long-term well-being.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I have experience supporting clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, and processing of major life transitions through a person-centered, trauma informed, and strengths-based therapeutic approach. Upcoming group and workshop support - Pet Loss Support Group
Art therapy offers a creative, grounding way to process experiences beyond words while building tools for regulation, self-compassion, and long-term well-being.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist (ATR-BC), I have experience supporting clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, chronic illness, and processing of major life transitions through a person-centered, trauma informed, and strengths-based therapeutic approach. Upcoming group and workshop support - Pet Loss Support Group
(703) 997-6296 View (703) 997-6296
Photo of D'Angelo Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
D'Angelo Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Overcoming mental and emotional challenges can be difficult, but even more when you feel like you are dealing with them alone. It's not always easy finding someone who's willing to listen and understands from a culturally responsive lens, especially when discussing personal challenges that have been discouraged outside of the home. Stress can come from many different avenues of life (career, family, relationships, society, and culture, etc) and can bring about depressions, anxiety, anger, isolation, and low-self esteem. It's not easy learning healthy ways to cope, managing your symptoms, and even recognizing that there's a problem.
Overcoming mental and emotional challenges can be difficult, but even more when you feel like you are dealing with them alone. It's not always easy finding someone who's willing to listen and understands from a culturally responsive lens, especially when discussing personal challenges that have been discouraged outside of the home. Stress can come from many different avenues of life (career, family, relationships, society, and culture, etc) and can bring about depressions, anxiety, anger, isolation, and low-self esteem. It's not easy learning healthy ways to cope, managing your symptoms, and even recognizing that there's a problem.
(202) 335-3349 View (202) 335-3349
Photo of Haley Hasen, Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC, CHSE
Haley Hasen
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC, CHSE
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a safer, affirming space for healing, specializing in trauma, art therapy, and a human-centered, anti-oppression approach.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a therapist who truly holds space for the depth of their experiences. They may be navigating the lasting effects of abuse, struggling with their identity, or working through challenges related to current policies, sexuality, or sex work. They need a space where they feel safer, affirmed, and met with genuine compassion—where they don’t have to educate their therapist or fear judgment. Their goals might include processing past trauma, building healthier relationships, affirming identity, developing coping skills, or simply feeling more at home in themselves.
I provide a safer, affirming space for healing, specializing in trauma, art therapy, and a human-centered, anti-oppression approach.
My ideal client is someone who has experienced trauma and is seeking a therapist who truly holds space for the depth of their experiences. They may be navigating the lasting effects of abuse, struggling with their identity, or working through challenges related to current policies, sexuality, or sex work. They need a space where they feel safer, affirmed, and met with genuine compassion—where they don’t have to educate their therapist or fear judgment. Their goals might include processing past trauma, building healthier relationships, affirming identity, developing coping skills, or simply feeling more at home in themselves.
(571) 506-6776 View (571) 506-6776
Photo of Kimberly Lea Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kimberly Lea Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Art/Play therapy, Solution Focused therapy and Trauma Centered therapy, to tailor treatment to your unique needs and goals.
Life can bring us challenges that feel impossible to work through alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or the after effects of trauma, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to heal and grow.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Art/Play therapy, Solution Focused therapy and Trauma Centered therapy, to tailor treatment to your unique needs and goals.
Life can bring us challenges that feel impossible to work through alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or the after effects of trauma, I'm here to provide a safe and supportive space for you to heal and grow.
(866) 591-5270 View (866) 591-5270
Photo of Daniel Maximiliano Cardenas, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, NCC
Daniel Maximiliano Cardenas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, and welcome. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Board-Certified Supervisor, I bring over a decade of diverse clinical experience to my practice. I am a bilingual clinician (English/Spanish), committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your challenges and build a path toward healing and growth. My extensive background includes working with individuals, children, and families in a variety of settings, from private practice to emergency management and crisis response.
Hello, and welcome. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Board-Certified Supervisor, I bring over a decade of diverse clinical experience to my practice. I am a bilingual clinician (English/Spanish), committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your challenges and build a path toward healing and growth. My extensive background includes working with individuals, children, and families in a variety of settings, from private practice to emergency management and crisis response.
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Photo of Shallimar jones - Mind Of A Woman, LLC, Psychologist, MA, PhD, PMH
Mind Of A Woman, LLC
Psychologist, MA, PhD, PMH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using 20+ years of domestic and international experience across many treatment modalities, Mind Of A Woman, is psychologist driven and can assist with your journey to accomplish your treatment goals. The mind of a woman is complicated. It holds many things including navigating mental health and the stressors of adulting, fertility, parenting, menopause, career and/or relationships. At Mind of A Woman, we also understand this experience. We also value culture and/or neurodiversity in care. We meet you where you are now. We are Telehealth based and licensed to provide care in over 40 states and accept various insurance providers.
Using 20+ years of domestic and international experience across many treatment modalities, Mind Of A Woman, is psychologist driven and can assist with your journey to accomplish your treatment goals. The mind of a woman is complicated. It holds many things including navigating mental health and the stressors of adulting, fertility, parenting, menopause, career and/or relationships. At Mind of A Woman, we also understand this experience. We also value culture and/or neurodiversity in care. We meet you where you are now. We are Telehealth based and licensed to provide care in over 40 states and accept various insurance providers.
(302) 337-5042 View (302) 337-5042
Photo of Erik Norman - Pema - Free Spirit Counseling and Collaborative, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Pema - Free Spirit Counseling and Collaborative
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Pema is accepting clients Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Please leave an E-Mail to get scheduled. Pema works online with individuals, aged 12 and up. He supports clients seeking assistance with areas such as: life transitions, young adult life, military life, college life, LGBTQIA+ support, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation building, stress management, grief/loss, anxiety disorders, anger, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, substance abuse, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I work well with individuals, families and people looking to find love.
Pema is accepting clients Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Please leave an E-Mail to get scheduled. Pema works online with individuals, aged 12 and up. He supports clients seeking assistance with areas such as: life transitions, young adult life, military life, college life, LGBTQIA+ support, relationship issues, self-esteem, motivation building, stress management, grief/loss, anxiety disorders, anger, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, substance abuse, trauma, and co-occurring disorders. I work well with individuals, families and people looking to find love.
(757) 755-8059 View (757) 755-8059
Photo of Sherri Joynes, Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS
Sherri Joynes
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
No matter who you are or what your particular challenges are, we can all get to the point where we feel like we're drowning. Work can push us and make us feel inadequate or overworked. Our relationships can make us doubt our value or our commitment. Even our family members who are supposed to be our main support can turn out to be a source of major stress. Tell me your individual story and struggles so that we can work together to find your peace and calm. Sometimes our burdens can get so heavy that even trying to picture our goals is difficult. Let's try to face some this fog so we can see our dreams clearer.
No matter who you are or what your particular challenges are, we can all get to the point where we feel like we're drowning. Work can push us and make us feel inadequate or overworked. Our relationships can make us doubt our value or our commitment. Even our family members who are supposed to be our main support can turn out to be a source of major stress. Tell me your individual story and struggles so that we can work together to find your peace and calm. Sometimes our burdens can get so heavy that even trying to picture our goals is difficult. Let's try to face some this fog so we can see our dreams clearer.
(301) 321-8492 View (301) 321-8492
Photo of John Gingrich, Counselor, MCPAT, LGPC, LPC
John Gingrich
Counselor, MCPAT, LGPC, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a counselor and art therapist, I bring a unique and refreshing approach to the therapeutic process.
Together in session, we will access the power of creativity to overcome obstacles and enhance resilience. Whether you view yourself as an artist or haven't doodled in years, you are welcome here. We will work with various forms of expressive therapies, mindfulness, IFS, breathwork, bodywork, and more.
As a counselor and art therapist, I bring a unique and refreshing approach to the therapeutic process.
Together in session, we will access the power of creativity to overcome obstacles and enhance resilience. Whether you view yourself as an artist or haven't doodled in years, you are welcome here. We will work with various forms of expressive therapies, mindfulness, IFS, breathwork, bodywork, and more.
(443) 457-9612 View (443) 457-9612
Photo of Maureen Martell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Maureen Martell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Trauma-informed holistic therapist who believes that true healing happens when we honor the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and our connection to the natural world. My approach integrates traditional psychological insights with Reiki, somatic experiencing, brainspotting and eco therapy, as well as creative therapy offering a compassionate, grounded space for transformation. Whether you're moving through anxiety, trauma, burnout, or a sense of disconnection from your authentic self, I work collaboratively with you to uncover your innate resilience and reconnect you with your highest good.
Trauma-informed holistic therapist who believes that true healing happens when we honor the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and our connection to the natural world. My approach integrates traditional psychological insights with Reiki, somatic experiencing, brainspotting and eco therapy, as well as creative therapy offering a compassionate, grounded space for transformation. Whether you're moving through anxiety, trauma, burnout, or a sense of disconnection from your authentic self, I work collaboratively with you to uncover your innate resilience and reconnect you with your highest good.
(484) 218-4320 View (484) 218-4320
Photo of Temple Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Temple Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello and Welcome. I am Temple Jackson, MSW, LICSW. I am the 4th Generation of Clinical Social Workers in my family. Indeed it is a calling! I offer 25 years of confident, professional Clinical Counseling and Crisis Management services. The research regarding the benefits of Mental Health Counseling, is solid. Professional counseling can exponentially improve Your health and Your daily life. Including, your physical, mental and spiritual health. I offer 25 years of confident, professional Clinical Counseling and Crisis Management services.
Hello and Welcome. I am Temple Jackson, MSW, LICSW. I am the 4th Generation of Clinical Social Workers in my family. Indeed it is a calling! I offer 25 years of confident, professional Clinical Counseling and Crisis Management services. The research regarding the benefits of Mental Health Counseling, is solid. Professional counseling can exponentially improve Your health and Your daily life. Including, your physical, mental and spiritual health. I offer 25 years of confident, professional Clinical Counseling and Crisis Management services.
(855) 779-0476 View (855) 779-0476
Photo of Lina Assad Cates, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Lina Assad Cates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I have received specialized training in art therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
I see my role as an advocate. With a strong belief in human resilience, I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck and limited by life's challenges. By developing a safe and collaborative relationship with my clients, I empower them to find the strength within themselves to live their lives fully and authentically. I specialize in healing from traumatic experiences and addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
I have received specialized training in art therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
I see my role as an advocate. With a strong belief in human resilience, I work with individuals and couples who feel stuck and limited by life's challenges. By developing a safe and collaborative relationship with my clients, I empower them to find the strength within themselves to live their lives fully and authentically. I specialize in healing from traumatic experiences and addressing issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, relationship patterns, and low self-esteem.
(202) 905-0688 View (202) 905-0688

Online Therapists

Photo of Joyce Montgomery - ActNow for Mental Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW , LCSW-C
ActNow for Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW , LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
ACTNow for Mental Health (ANMH) prides itself on being a teaching organization that utilizes and trains Master's level graduate students in various therapy treatments including CBT, DBT, ACT, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Art Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
ActNow for Mental Health's services are free of charge for those aged 17-32 in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Our services do not require insurance! Part of the ongoing mental health crisis is the fact that certain communities have been historically underserved by the U.S. health system, which includes LGBTQIA+ and POC populations, people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and people who are uninsured or underinsured. ANMH looks to serve these populations with thoughtful, compassionate care.
ACTNow for Mental Health (ANMH) prides itself on being a teaching organization that utilizes and trains Master's level graduate students in various therapy treatments including CBT, DBT, ACT, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Art Therapy, and Trauma Informed Care.
ActNow for Mental Health's services are free of charge for those aged 17-32 in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Our services do not require insurance! Part of the ongoing mental health crisis is the fact that certain communities have been historically underserved by the U.S. health system, which includes LGBTQIA+ and POC populations, people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and people who are uninsured or underinsured. ANMH looks to serve these populations with thoughtful, compassionate care.
(844) 723-2578 View (844) 723-2578

See more therapy options for Shaw, Washington

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.