Expressive Arts Therapists in 94704

Photo of Amy Ruben, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Amy Ruben
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I work with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, expressive arts, parts work, mindfulness practices, narrative, and a social-justice orientation.
Thank you for finding your way here. I believe we all have the innate ability to heal. My goal is to support clients in expanding their awareness of themselves and deepening into here-and-now experiences. When we meet, I will offer you an opportunity to work experientially, as well as to share through talking. Whatever approach we employ, I hope you will leave each session feeling supported and accompanied on your journey. I'm passionate about offering support to parents in the perinatal period (including trying to conceive, fertility treatment, pregnancy & pregnancy challenges/loss, birth, loss, postpartum and early parenthood.
I work with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, expressive arts, parts work, mindfulness practices, narrative, and a social-justice orientation.
Thank you for finding your way here. I believe we all have the innate ability to heal. My goal is to support clients in expanding their awareness of themselves and deepening into here-and-now experiences. When we meet, I will offer you an opportunity to work experientially, as well as to share through talking. Whatever approach we employ, I hope you will leave each session feeling supported and accompanied on your journey. I'm passionate about offering support to parents in the perinatal period (including trying to conceive, fertility treatment, pregnancy & pregnancy challenges/loss, birth, loss, postpartum and early parenthood.
(510) 876-9705 View (510) 876-9705
Photo of Pujita Latchman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Pujita Latchman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
IFS parts work informed, and 3 yrs Expressive arts therapy training (Yes, therapy can be results driven, dynamic & playful!).
For over 12 years I have supported motivated adults & teens in resolving depression, anxiety & chronic pain, and healing relational dynamics linked to trauma with somatic mindfulness, EMDR, Brainspotting, and parts work. As a first generation multicultural therapist, providing culturally attuned therapy that welcomes all parts of your diverse identity is at the crux of my practice. (BIPOC, LGBTQi ally) Holding the role of an informed guide I will support you in unearthing your truth & unwinding old conditioned patterns and pain. My role will dance between being intentionally structured and holding sacred space as needed.
IFS parts work informed, and 3 yrs Expressive arts therapy training (Yes, therapy can be results driven, dynamic & playful!).
For over 12 years I have supported motivated adults & teens in resolving depression, anxiety & chronic pain, and healing relational dynamics linked to trauma with somatic mindfulness, EMDR, Brainspotting, and parts work. As a first generation multicultural therapist, providing culturally attuned therapy that welcomes all parts of your diverse identity is at the crux of my practice. (BIPOC, LGBTQi ally) Holding the role of an informed guide I will support you in unearthing your truth & unwinding old conditioned patterns and pain. My role will dance between being intentionally structured and holding sacred space as needed.
(341) 999-2456 View (341) 999-2456
Photo of Jane Cabot, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Jane Cabot
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
To give voice to what is beyond just verbal, I integrate expressive arts, somatic (body-centered) and archetypal/symbolic exploration into the work.
As a psychotherapist, I act as your collaborator, witness and guide, and bring curiosity and warmth to your exploration. Trauma, past wounding and internalized negative beliefs can make it difficult to know what you need from moment to moment. Therefore, in session, I support you in cultivating self-agency so that you may become familiar with what is right for you at a pace that is both constructive and safe. I am here to help you navigate difficult transitions, past and new traumas, grief and loss, shifts in identity, and a desire to change patterns in relationship on your path towards fulfilling connections to self and others.
To give voice to what is beyond just verbal, I integrate expressive arts, somatic (body-centered) and archetypal/symbolic exploration into the work.
As a psychotherapist, I act as your collaborator, witness and guide, and bring curiosity and warmth to your exploration. Trauma, past wounding and internalized negative beliefs can make it difficult to know what you need from moment to moment. Therefore, in session, I support you in cultivating self-agency so that you may become familiar with what is right for you at a pace that is both constructive and safe. I am here to help you navigate difficult transitions, past and new traumas, grief and loss, shifts in identity, and a desire to change patterns in relationship on your path towards fulfilling connections to self and others.
(341) 444-2442 View (341) 444-2442
Photo of Cyndi Lowe, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Cyndi Lowe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am interested in what works! I was originally trained in psychodynamic/Jungian/expressive arts work, focusing on childhood trauma.
Are you dealing with unwanted OCD thoughts or rituals? Avoiding places, objects, movements, people, words, colors, that you're afraid will trigger anxiety or thoughts? Thinking about the same things over and over with no resolution? Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? Just moved here? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are!
I am interested in what works! I was originally trained in psychodynamic/Jungian/expressive arts work, focusing on childhood trauma.
Are you dealing with unwanted OCD thoughts or rituals? Avoiding places, objects, movements, people, words, colors, that you're afraid will trigger anxiety or thoughts? Thinking about the same things over and over with no resolution? Are you lost? Lonely? Grieving? Acting or thinking in ways you don't understand? Looking for something more in your life? Not knowing what the next step is? Wanting to make big, positive changes (or even small ones) and don't know how? Just moved here? I love helping people explore their lives and themselves! Let's find out what's next, what's inside, what you want and who you are!
(510) 401-3224 View (510) 401-3224
Photo of Sekayi Edwards, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Sekayi Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I integrate the powers of geek therapy, expressive arts therapy, and spirituality to explore the unseen forces that shape your identity and the realms you inhabit.
As a geek or gamer, creative or artist, or spiritual seeker, you aspire to reach your full potential, forge timeless bonds with others, and embody an unshakeable purpose in the 'real world' as you do in the inner realms of your passions. The 'real world,' however, roils with social stigma, responsibilities, and traumatic events that leave you feeling helpless, isolated, and aimless within your home, work, school, or social life. Your passions only provide momentary relief as unresolved problems continue to grow, and unless this cycle is broken, the weight of these problems will only accumulate, perpetuating the cycle of struggle.
I integrate the powers of geek therapy, expressive arts therapy, and spirituality to explore the unseen forces that shape your identity and the realms you inhabit.
As a geek or gamer, creative or artist, or spiritual seeker, you aspire to reach your full potential, forge timeless bonds with others, and embody an unshakeable purpose in the 'real world' as you do in the inner realms of your passions. The 'real world,' however, roils with social stigma, responsibilities, and traumatic events that leave you feeling helpless, isolated, and aimless within your home, work, school, or social life. Your passions only provide momentary relief as unresolved problems continue to grow, and unless this cycle is broken, the weight of these problems will only accumulate, perpetuating the cycle of struggle.
(341) 895-7455 View (341) 895-7455
Photo of Beatriz Chavez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Beatriz Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
For adults and teens, I integrate expressive arts to help you (re)connect to your inner wisdom and resilience.
I'm so glad you have found your way to my therapy practice Creative Wisdom Therapy! My intention is to support you, your teen, or your child use the power of creativity to make the changes you seek. Are you an adult or teen who would like to use your creative expression to learn about yourself, heal old or recurring wounds, and build healthy coping skills? Do you have a child who has lots of worries or big emotions? Is your child struggling with a difficult life event or transition? Are you a parent feeling stressed in your parenting role or experiencing a shift in your family dynamics?
For adults and teens, I integrate expressive arts to help you (re)connect to your inner wisdom and resilience.
I'm so glad you have found your way to my therapy practice Creative Wisdom Therapy! My intention is to support you, your teen, or your child use the power of creativity to make the changes you seek. Are you an adult or teen who would like to use your creative expression to learn about yourself, heal old or recurring wounds, and build healthy coping skills? Do you have a child who has lots of worries or big emotions? Is your child struggling with a difficult life event or transition? Are you a parent feeling stressed in your parenting role or experiencing a shift in your family dynamics?
(510) 617-5886 View (510) 617-5886
Photo of Cynthia Liuska, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Cynthia Liuska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
We may work through talk therapy, present moment awareness, somatic work and/or expressive arts.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
We may work through talk therapy, present moment awareness, somatic work and/or expressive arts.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
(628) 333-2192 View (628) 333-2192
Photo of Michal Rokach Shamay, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Michal Rokach Shamay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am extensively trained at Mindfulness Based approaches to therapy, Dance and Movement therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy and Somatic Psychology, and family, child and adolescents therapy.
My practice combines both mind and body approaches to support change. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Dance and Movement Therapist. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties in adult, teenagers and children. I feel very grateful for the opportunities to work with those seeking a greater sense of well-being, satisfaction in relationships, and understanding of self. In therapy, I am working in both verbal and non-verbal ways, including somatic psychology techniques for adults and play therapy for children.
I am extensively trained at Mindfulness Based approaches to therapy, Dance and Movement therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy and Somatic Psychology, and family, child and adolescents therapy.
My practice combines both mind and body approaches to support change. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Dance and Movement Therapist. I have experience treating a wide variety of psychological and emotional difficulties in adult, teenagers and children. I feel very grateful for the opportunities to work with those seeking a greater sense of well-being, satisfaction in relationships, and understanding of self. In therapy, I am working in both verbal and non-verbal ways, including somatic psychology techniques for adults and play therapy for children.
(510) 944-1549 View (510) 944-1549
Photo of Sarah Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94704, CA
Sarah Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I recognize that making a decision to come to counseling is not always easy, and will partner with you at your own pace to engage your natural capacity for healing and change. My style is warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. The way our time is spent together will be unique to your interests & needs. My practice is eclectic and may include mindfulness, expressive arts, nature, as well as traditional talk therapy, which we will discuss in our first meeting together. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic services to youth and young adults; and also work with adult clients & parents.
I recognize that making a decision to come to counseling is not always easy, and will partner with you at your own pace to engage your natural capacity for healing and change. My style is warm, collaborative and non-judgmental. The way our time is spent together will be unique to your interests & needs. My practice is eclectic and may include mindfulness, expressive arts, nature, as well as traditional talk therapy, which we will discuss in our first meeting together. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic services to youth and young adults; and also work with adult clients & parents.
(415) 792-0970 View (415) 792-0970
Photo of John Hanig, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
John Hanig
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
My clients are creative and strongly drawn to the Expressive Arts therapy we use collaboratively.
I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and communities of Color.
My clients are creative and strongly drawn to the Expressive Arts therapy we use collaboratively.
I specialize in working with queer, gay, bisexual, & transgender adults & adolescents in California. I am most passionate about providing advocacy for cultural and economic diversity in our community and serving LGBTQ+ people experiencing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Engaging in therapy is more important than ever especially in response to our current political climate and recent backlash of conservative values showing incredible disrespect toward the LGBTQ+ community and throwing extra stress at immigrant populations and communities of Color.
(415) 504-3833 View (415) 504-3833
Photo of Kasey Varga, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Kasey Varga
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist and utilize dramatic and arts-based interventions.
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist and utilize dramatic and arts-based interventions.
Are you feeling heartbroken or utterly confused by a romantic relationship? Are you a parent who is endlessly stirred up by your child's behavior? I offer an opportunity to utilize heartbreak in service of growth and to begin to untangle the reality of your current relationships from the residue of your history. I challenge parents to advocate for their own needs while also strongly considering the needs of their children. I teach them how to facilitate the full expression of emotion in children. In light of a great deal of training and personal experience I bring a deep respect for the unknown and a willingness to land in mystery.
(628) 227-5522 View (628) 227-5522
Photo of Kathryn Buys, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Kathryn Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ACSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I integrate expressive arts & Spiritual practices from all over the world, i.
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
I integrate expressive arts & Spiritual practices from all over the world, i.
If you are a woman ready for more happiness, more peace, & a greater sense of choice, I am here to guide you on your way. Your depression, anxiety, or relationship challenges may be signals that something greater is around the corner. If they persist, though, it’s a good time to find someone who can re-orient you so that you’re on the path of a joyful life, a life of intention, a life where empowerment and “yes!” are within reach. I work with women who feel even just a slight spark of knowing that this path might be available. We may start with mindfulness & how to cope with the effects of trauma and depression so you can thrive.
(925) 291-5873 View (925) 291-5873
Photo of Elisa Chaves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94704, CA
Elisa Chaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In individual sessions, I utilize Expressive Arts, Drama, & Somatic Therapies offering creative tools that enhance the mind-body connection & promote emotional awareness, expression & integration.
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
In individual sessions, I utilize Expressive Arts, Drama, & Somatic Therapies offering creative tools that enhance the mind-body connection & promote emotional awareness, expression & integration.
I am passionate about supporting children, adults and families to improve their communication, emotional connections and self-esteem. My approach is warm, interactive and strength-based. I have experience working with children and adults going through divorce, traumatic experiences, conflicts, challenges with self-regulation, as well as parenting difficulties and behavioral problems. I support my clients through life transitions, the process of acculturation and belonging, anxiety, depression or seeking any type of emotional healing from current or past experiences.
(510) 757-9413 View (510) 757-9413
Photo of Emma Burrows, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Emma Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from person-centered, expressive arts, strengths-based and trauma-informed frameworks.
If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holisic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training and background in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
I draw from person-centered, expressive arts, strengths-based and trauma-informed frameworks.
If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holisic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training and background in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
(808) 320-1068 View (808) 320-1068
Photo of Lauren Massell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94704, CA
Lauren Massell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Connecting with your inner compass does not have to be an abstract concept. When you've survived difficult circumstances - learning trust your body's messages is challenging - but also how you can cultivate clarity in relationships, jobs, and everyday decisions. Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to bring awareness and compassion to your nervous system's response to your environment and integrate a greater sense of safety. From this place, your own wisdom becomes easier to hear and follow.
Connecting with your inner compass does not have to be an abstract concept. When you've survived difficult circumstances - learning trust your body's messages is challenging - but also how you can cultivate clarity in relationships, jobs, and everyday decisions. Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to bring awareness and compassion to your nervous system's response to your environment and integrate a greater sense of safety. From this place, your own wisdom becomes easier to hear and follow.
(510) 405-4241 View (510) 405-4241
Photo of Life by Design Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Life by Design Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
When life gets rough, it's important to know there are safe and supportive spaces you can turn to for support. Whether you're seeking real relief from anxiety or depression, needing help establishing better boundaries, questioning your identity, sexuality, or personal relationships or just having trouble managing the day-to-day, we can help. At Life by Design Therapy we believe change is possible for you. We offer holistic and somatic therapy to support you in navigating life's challenges without having to dismiss, avoid, or disconnect from what you truly want. It's time to live life on your own terms and Create A Life You Love!
When life gets rough, it's important to know there are safe and supportive spaces you can turn to for support. Whether you're seeking real relief from anxiety or depression, needing help establishing better boundaries, questioning your identity, sexuality, or personal relationships or just having trouble managing the day-to-day, we can help. At Life by Design Therapy we believe change is possible for you. We offer holistic and somatic therapy to support you in navigating life's challenges without having to dismiss, avoid, or disconnect from what you truly want. It's time to live life on your own terms and Create A Life You Love!
(510) 422-0349 View (510) 422-0349
Photo of Jacob Kaminker, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Jacob Kaminker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes feel like you just need to get over that next hill, but then there is always another hill? Life's journey is a winding trail, with each turn bringing new challenges. Inner conflicts create uncertainty. Yet, you're not alone. Together, we'll navigate the twists of relationships and decisions, forging a path to self-discovery and empowerment. Let's embark on this adventure together.
Do you sometimes feel like you just need to get over that next hill, but then there is always another hill? Life's journey is a winding trail, with each turn bringing new challenges. Inner conflicts create uncertainty. Yet, you're not alone. Together, we'll navigate the twists of relationships and decisions, forging a path to self-discovery and empowerment. Let's embark on this adventure together.
(510) 629-4412 View (510) 629-4412
Photo of Adisa Anderson, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Adisa Anderson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight, change behaviors, develop coping tools, and address challenges we are facing. My work is deeply rooted in empowering and supporting individuals on their personal journey, as they uncover inner-strengths, increase insight about themselves, their relationships, and restore balance in their lives. I embrace a strengths-based, holistic, multicultural, mindfulness-based framework with clients. I welcome diversity in all forms and integrate various treatment modalities based on client need, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Relational Cultural Therapy.
Therapy is an opportunity to gain insight, change behaviors, develop coping tools, and address challenges we are facing. My work is deeply rooted in empowering and supporting individuals on their personal journey, as they uncover inner-strengths, increase insight about themselves, their relationships, and restore balance in their lives. I embrace a strengths-based, holistic, multicultural, mindfulness-based framework with clients. I welcome diversity in all forms and integrate various treatment modalities based on client need, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and Relational Cultural Therapy.
(562) 524-1154 View (562) 524-1154
Photo of Susan Wilde, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Susan Wilde
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am bilingual in Spanish, and offer therapy for individual adults, couples, families, teens, and children 6 and older. My specialties include trauma, interpersonal violence (IPV), and loss, especially for human beings who have experienced displacement and/migration. I offer services for expecting and new mothers to aid in the transitions and attachment issues that arise. Also I am interested in bridging periods in human development. I embrace a culturally humble stance, and am LBGT welcoming.
I am bilingual in Spanish, and offer therapy for individual adults, couples, families, teens, and children 6 and older. My specialties include trauma, interpersonal violence (IPV), and loss, especially for human beings who have experienced displacement and/migration. I offer services for expecting and new mothers to aid in the transitions and attachment issues that arise. Also I am interested in bridging periods in human development. I embrace a culturally humble stance, and am LBGT welcoming.
(510) 401-3958 View (510) 401-3958
Photo of Lindsay Focht, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Lindsay Focht
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Through therapy with your child, I will work in building resiliency, learning new coping skills, emotional regulation, and providing a safe space to process memories and current life experiences and traumas. Unlike adults who tend more to communicate verbally or from a logical perspective, children use creativity and imaginative play to express their inner thoughts and feelings, it is often the main way children relate and learn about themselves and their world. Through play therapy, I respond to your child with care, attunement, and skillfulness in helping them understand difficult emotions and make sense of confusing experiences.
Through therapy with your child, I will work in building resiliency, learning new coping skills, emotional regulation, and providing a safe space to process memories and current life experiences and traumas. Unlike adults who tend more to communicate verbally or from a logical perspective, children use creativity and imaginative play to express their inner thoughts and feelings, it is often the main way children relate and learn about themselves and their world. Through play therapy, I respond to your child with care, attunement, and skillfulness in helping them understand difficult emotions and make sense of confusing experiences.
(341) 222-3552 View (341) 222-3552
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.