Photo of Kayla Thomas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Kayla Thomas is a Licensed Social Worker who is passionate about healing. She has experience working with adults and youth seeking help with PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, and LGTBQ+ or other sexuality issues. Kayla takes a holistic, solution-focused approach to her clients' needs. She uses compassion, coaching, and a clinical practice best suited for client goals. In addition, therapeutic techniques such as strength-based, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness cater unique treatments to each individual. Kayla is spiritually centered and purpose-driven.
Kayla Thomas is a Licensed Social Worker who is passionate about healing. She has experience working with adults and youth seeking help with PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, and LGTBQ+ or other sexuality issues. Kayla takes a holistic, solution-focused approach to her clients' needs. She uses compassion, coaching, and a clinical practice best suited for client goals. In addition, therapeutic techniques such as strength-based, cognitive behavioral, and mindfulness cater unique treatments to each individual. Kayla is spiritually centered and purpose-driven.
(215) 515-8250 View (215) 515-8250
Photo of Carmen Porter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carmen Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
Greetings! I am Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. In 2014, I received my masters degree in counseling psychology from Chatham University in Pgh, Pa. Impacting individuals and families; helping them to experience resilience, growth and transformation through difficult experiences and life transitions is something that gives my life meaning.
Greetings! I am Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. In 2014, I received my masters degree in counseling psychology from Chatham University in Pgh, Pa. Impacting individuals and families; helping them to experience resilience, growth and transformation through difficult experiences and life transitions is something that gives my life meaning.
(484) 573-7157 View (484) 573-7157
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.