Photo of Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 49503, MI
Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
(616) 201-3474 View (616) 201-3474
Photo of Wendy Gornick-Maycroft, Licensed Professional Counselor in 49503, MI
Wendy Gornick-Maycroft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
I am certified in DBT and CCTP (certified clinical trauma professional) levels I/II. My clinical expertise focuses on trauma/PTSD, borderline and other personality disorders, eating disorders, couples/infidelity issues, self-harming behaviors, criminal thinking and behavior, and mood disorders. Other areas of clinical experience and treatment provided include blended families/family conflict, military personnel deployment/redeployment/combat trauma, and LGBTQ issues.
I am certified in DBT and CCTP (certified clinical trauma professional) levels I/II. My clinical expertise focuses on trauma/PTSD, borderline and other personality disorders, eating disorders, couples/infidelity issues, self-harming behaviors, criminal thinking and behavior, and mood disorders. Other areas of clinical experience and treatment provided include blended families/family conflict, military personnel deployment/redeployment/combat trauma, and LGBTQ issues.
(616) 504-2472 View (616) 504-2472
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.