Expressive Arts Therapists in Catalina, AZ

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Photo of Debra Urken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Debra Urken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85737
My diverse training in cognitive/behavioral therapy modalities, somatic movement, neuroscience, and the expressive arts (including visual art, dance, and writing) allows me to support children's, adolescents', and young adults' growth in many different ways.
Is your child or teen feeling stressed, anxious, and/or depressed? Does he/she need ways to cope with difficult thoughts, strong emotions, a life transition, and/or stressful social situations? Does he/she want to learn not only how to cope, but how to thrive? Or are you a young adult (18-25 years old) struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you need support as you work toward building a rich, meaningful life? Would you like help processing traumatic experiences? Expressive arts therapy and body-oriented therapy are especially useful when "words are not enough".
My diverse training in cognitive/behavioral therapy modalities, somatic movement, neuroscience, and the expressive arts (including visual art, dance, and writing) allows me to support children's, adolescents', and young adults' growth in many different ways.
Is your child or teen feeling stressed, anxious, and/or depressed? Does he/she need ways to cope with difficult thoughts, strong emotions, a life transition, and/or stressful social situations? Does he/she want to learn not only how to cope, but how to thrive? Or are you a young adult (18-25 years old) struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you need support as you work toward building a rich, meaningful life? Would you like help processing traumatic experiences? Expressive arts therapy and body-oriented therapy are especially useful when "words are not enough".
(520) 447-1335 View (520) 447-1335
Photo of Sherrill Koogler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Sherrill Koogler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85737
Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Both parents and children become frustrated and their relationship suffers. I use the language of play to connect with children and help them learn to express their needs in a safe manner. I specialize in working with children who have difficulty managing emotions and behavior at home and at school.
Are you frustrated with your child’s behavior? Are you receiving phone calls from your child’s school? Is your child having difficulty regulating emotions and following directions? Both parents and children become frustrated and their relationship suffers. I use the language of play to connect with children and help them learn to express their needs in a safe manner. I specialize in working with children who have difficulty managing emotions and behavior at home and at school.
(520) 462-8867 View (520) 462-8867
Photo of Jami Parrish, Licensed Professional Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Jami Parrish
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT, CMAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Therapy is a collaborative process of discernment, self discovery, and change. Loss, transitions, family of origin issues, addictions, work and money worries can make life stressful and difficult to manage. During these times we feel stuck and alone. Change happens when someone is present with you in a supportive environment. My approach is psychodynamically based, incorporating neuropsychological, mindfulness, and body-based techniques. Together we will address your needs, celebrate your successes, and allow you to create the space to become the person you desire to be; the person you know you are in your heart.
Therapy is a collaborative process of discernment, self discovery, and change. Loss, transitions, family of origin issues, addictions, work and money worries can make life stressful and difficult to manage. During these times we feel stuck and alone. Change happens when someone is present with you in a supportive environment. My approach is psychodynamically based, incorporating neuropsychological, mindfulness, and body-based techniques. Together we will address your needs, celebrate your successes, and allow you to create the space to become the person you desire to be; the person you know you are in your heart.
(520) 329-0345 View (520) 329-0345
Photo of Madeline Wilson, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Madeline Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85755  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are in a power struggle with yourself? Lets team up and bring some balance to your life by processing and working thought current and past stressors and life events. We can collaborate on building your self esteem and develop a clear identity by utilizing creativity, abstract thinking, somatic practices, mindfulness, and cognitive processing. Imagine a future where you can heal from the impact of trauma, build communication skills to enhance your interpersonal relationships, and improve your overall satisfaction with life. We can work together to address the deep rooted patterns keeping you stuck.
Do you feel like you are in a power struggle with yourself? Lets team up and bring some balance to your life by processing and working thought current and past stressors and life events. We can collaborate on building your self esteem and develop a clear identity by utilizing creativity, abstract thinking, somatic practices, mindfulness, and cognitive processing. Imagine a future where you can heal from the impact of trauma, build communication skills to enhance your interpersonal relationships, and improve your overall satisfaction with life. We can work together to address the deep rooted patterns keeping you stuck.
(206) 208-7956 View (206) 208-7956
Photo of Andrea S Gould, Psychologist in Catalina, AZ
Andrea S Gould
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Is your love or work life in flux? Any life TRANSITION or CHANGE creates ripples, often producing stress and anxiety. Moving from one chapter of life to another asks us to leave our comfort zone. These are especially difficult times with the uncertainty factor challenging for all. Managing transition demands your perspectives, mindset and choices modify accordingly. LEARN what it takes to prepare and shift! A GROWTH mindset helps adjustment, and requires vision, motivation, and support to feel clear and confident. I'll be guiding you with wise compassion. Try a free 15min interview or visit LucidLearning.com for more info.
Is your love or work life in flux? Any life TRANSITION or CHANGE creates ripples, often producing stress and anxiety. Moving from one chapter of life to another asks us to leave our comfort zone. These are especially difficult times with the uncertainty factor challenging for all. Managing transition demands your perspectives, mindset and choices modify accordingly. LEARN what it takes to prepare and shift! A GROWTH mindset helps adjustment, and requires vision, motivation, and support to feel clear and confident. I'll be guiding you with wise compassion. Try a free 15min interview or visit LucidLearning.com for more info.
(631) 576-4106 View (631) 576-4106
Photo of Nicole Linn, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Nicole Linn
Counselor, MEd, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Does your child have big emotions, anger, worries, or behaviors that you are struggling to understand? Has your child been through something difficult or just isn’t acting like themselves? If your child is expressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or unexplained difficulties, a play-based model allows a safe environment to explore their feelings and needs affecting healthy functioning. I specialize in using a genuine, non-judgmental, supportive approach to helping children and families develop new ways of thinking and feeling, as well as learning new sets of skills for making choices and having healthier relationships.
Does your child have big emotions, anger, worries, or behaviors that you are struggling to understand? Has your child been through something difficult or just isn’t acting like themselves? If your child is expressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or unexplained difficulties, a play-based model allows a safe environment to explore their feelings and needs affecting healthy functioning. I specialize in using a genuine, non-judgmental, supportive approach to helping children and families develop new ways of thinking and feeling, as well as learning new sets of skills for making choices and having healthier relationships.
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Photo of Lilliana Magali Hoy-Nielsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Lilliana Magali Hoy-Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Magali Hoy-Nielsen has been working with clients who have extensive trauma experiences, sexual, physical abuse, domestic violence, and parent/child attachment disorder. Magali focuses on the specific trauma that has impacted the client's life and guides that client in finding clarity, self healing, and a path towards self control. Magali has been working in the area of trauma and attachment for 19 years, helping mend broken and damaged parent/child relationships, which is the core of healthy connections in the future.
Magali Hoy-Nielsen has been working with clients who have extensive trauma experiences, sexual, physical abuse, domestic violence, and parent/child attachment disorder. Magali focuses on the specific trauma that has impacted the client's life and guides that client in finding clarity, self healing, and a path towards self control. Magali has been working in the area of trauma and attachment for 19 years, helping mend broken and damaged parent/child relationships, which is the core of healthy connections in the future.
(520) 224-1924 View (520) 224-1924
Photo of Shari Gootter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Shari Gootter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Navigating through changes and transitions can be challenging and alienating. I offer a new perspective and a helpful therapeutic partnership. I feel it is a true privilege to be part of one's healing journey. My practice is inspired by Person Centered Therapy and a diverse study of methods ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance, Commitment, and strengths-based therapy. I believe that no two clients are the same, and that a practice must be an individualized collaboration based on mutual authenticity and honesty. These are among the compassionate qualities which allow for a genuine therapeutic alliance.
Navigating through changes and transitions can be challenging and alienating. I offer a new perspective and a helpful therapeutic partnership. I feel it is a true privilege to be part of one's healing journey. My practice is inspired by Person Centered Therapy and a diverse study of methods ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance, Commitment, and strengths-based therapy. I believe that no two clients are the same, and that a practice must be an individualized collaboration based on mutual authenticity and honesty. These are among the compassionate qualities which allow for a genuine therapeutic alliance.
(520) 447-4546 View (520) 447-4546
Photo of Emily Fenton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Emily Fenton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Engaging in therapy can feel like a big step. It doesn't have to be stressful though. It's important to remember that we all need support sometimes. I strive to meet all needs for clients, dedicating time and attention to ensure a sense of safety and belonging. I'll meet you/your child where you're at and identify goals for successful treatment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults between the ages of 7-26, struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, social skills, self-esteem and more. Plus, I do a ton of parent coaching! We're in this together.
Engaging in therapy can feel like a big step. It doesn't have to be stressful though. It's important to remember that we all need support sometimes. I strive to meet all needs for clients, dedicating time and attention to ensure a sense of safety and belonging. I'll meet you/your child where you're at and identify goals for successful treatment. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults between the ages of 7-26, struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, social skills, self-esteem and more. Plus, I do a ton of parent coaching! We're in this together.
(520) 462-1377 View (520) 462-1377
Photo of Kristi Painter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Kristi Painter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Not accepting new clients
My passion is helping people connect in healthy ways, healing wounds that prevent us from living full lives and becoming our whole selves. Childhood abuse, attachment struggles, codependency, and dysfunctional family systems can leave us hurt and guarded, but we can overcome these wounds. We can find love within ourselves, we can connect in healthy ways, and this is something we deserve in our lives. My hope is for you to live a beautiful life, accepting yourself, allowing yourself to be loved. I believe I have tools to assist you in this journey and would be honored to be your guide.
My passion is helping people connect in healthy ways, healing wounds that prevent us from living full lives and becoming our whole selves. Childhood abuse, attachment struggles, codependency, and dysfunctional family systems can leave us hurt and guarded, but we can overcome these wounds. We can find love within ourselves, we can connect in healthy ways, and this is something we deserve in our lives. My hope is for you to live a beautiful life, accepting yourself, allowing yourself to be loved. I believe I have tools to assist you in this journey and would be honored to be your guide.
(520) 729-4823 View (520) 729-4823
Photo of Sue Vetere, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Sue Vetere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85737
Not accepting new clients
My practice is focused on helping individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders and post-traumatic stress. I specialize in comprehensive grief and loss issues and am passionate about empowering women and other survivors of abuse. Since the relationship between a client and therapist is a strong predictor of a positive outcome, my goal is to provide a supportive, safe and accepting environment where you will feel understood and respected while moving towards self awareness, greater happiness and solutions to problems.
My practice is focused on helping individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders and post-traumatic stress. I specialize in comprehensive grief and loss issues and am passionate about empowering women and other survivors of abuse. Since the relationship between a client and therapist is a strong predictor of a positive outcome, my goal is to provide a supportive, safe and accepting environment where you will feel understood and respected while moving towards self awareness, greater happiness and solutions to problems.
(520) 729-4408 View (520) 729-4408

Online Therapists

Photo of Alexandra Trusty, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Alexandra Trusty
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85041
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, child-parent psychotherapy, sand-tray, play therapy, TFCBT, expressive arts, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, child-parent psychotherapy, sand-tray, play therapy, TFCBT, expressive arts, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have the capacity for healing within ourselves. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and caregivers. My goal is to instill hope and healing for clients presenting with concerns related to post-traumatic stress, attachment, anxiety, grief/loss, depression, disruptive behaviors, social skills, parenting, and/or relational distress.
(480) 637-3413 View (480) 637-3413
Photo of Heartful Solutions for Families, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Heartful Solutions for Families
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Waitlist for new clients
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
Weekend and afternoon/evening appointments. I offer family and individual therapy for children ages 2 to 12 using child-friendly tools: Play therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts, EMDR, Somatic Therapy. Rhythmic Movement and Mindfulness training. Whether you are seeking help for common childhood concerns, learning, and attention problems, or more traumatic life events, my playful approach will help your child connect emotionally, learn new behaviors, communicate and navigate through times of change.
(602) 529-3972 View (602) 529-3972
Photo of Kiersten Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Kiersten Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
I also incorporate mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy and expressive arts interventions into an integrated approach to healing.
You are the author of your life story, what is the title of your next chapter? The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves hold enormous power. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected or hopeless due to mental barriers, physical challenges, stressful life changes, family conflict, unhealthy coping patterns or things that have happened in your past. Learning to find the power of your inner voice and take control of your life story can create new ways of viewing yourself and the world. This can restore peace within your mind, body and relationships with others.
I also incorporate mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy and expressive arts interventions into an integrated approach to healing.
You are the author of your life story, what is the title of your next chapter? The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves hold enormous power. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected or hopeless due to mental barriers, physical challenges, stressful life changes, family conflict, unhealthy coping patterns or things that have happened in your past. Learning to find the power of your inner voice and take control of your life story can create new ways of viewing yourself and the world. This can restore peace within your mind, body and relationships with others.
(480) 618-7652 View (480) 618-7652
Photo of Sarab Saraswati Khalsa, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Sarab Saraswati Khalsa
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
I also utilize inner child work, DBT, mindfulness, strengths-based counseling, talk therapy, CBT, and expressive arts.
Now accepting new clients! Telehealth sessions available! Some background about me: I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona and I graduated with a Psychology degree from Fort Lewis college before pursuing a Masters’ degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling here in Arizona. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. My experience shines best when working with adults struggling with childhood and relationship trauma, unhealthy relationships, communication struggles, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, emotional regulation, and life transitions.
I also utilize inner child work, DBT, mindfulness, strengths-based counseling, talk therapy, CBT, and expressive arts.
Now accepting new clients! Telehealth sessions available! Some background about me: I am a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona and I graduated with a Psychology degree from Fort Lewis college before pursuing a Masters’ degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling here in Arizona. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. My experience shines best when working with adults struggling with childhood and relationship trauma, unhealthy relationships, communication struggles, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, emotional regulation, and life transitions.
(602) 362-7547 View (602) 362-7547
Photo of Taelor Emmert - Trauma - Anxiety - Self Esteem - Depression -Dbt Skills- Emdr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Taelor Emmert - Trauma - Anxiety - Self Esteem - Depression -Dbt Skills- Emdr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I also love incorporating expressive arts into therapy like art, music, writing, poetry and sand tray.
Hi there! I am an Arizona State University graduate (Go Sun Devils!) with a Bachelors Degree in Family and Human Development and a Masters Degree in Counseling. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of struggles including family disruption, trauma, anxiety, behavioral problems, grief, faith crisis, self esteem and depression. I approach the therapeutic process by incorporating many modalities into therapy that fit the needs of each client.
I also love incorporating expressive arts into therapy like art, music, writing, poetry and sand tray.
Hi there! I am an Arizona State University graduate (Go Sun Devils!) with a Bachelors Degree in Family and Human Development and a Masters Degree in Counseling. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of struggles including family disruption, trauma, anxiety, behavioral problems, grief, faith crisis, self esteem and depression. I approach the therapeutic process by incorporating many modalities into therapy that fit the needs of each client.
(480) 680-7429 View (480) 680-7429
Photo of Catherine Penn Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Catherine Penn Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85716  (Online Only)
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize depth approaches of dreamwork, active imagination and expressive arts in my practice.
Carl Jung said, "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are." Many of my clients come to therapy reporting problems with depression, anxiety, troublesome relationships, or grieving a recent loss. Our work often includes a review of life history -- including the influences of family of origin, identity, culture, religion and place -- as well as your current life circumstances. You and I will work together to create a safe setting and use those presenting symptoms as stepping stones for you to achieve a more authentically lived and fulfilling life.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I utilize depth approaches of dreamwork, active imagination and expressive arts in my practice.
Carl Jung said, "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are." Many of my clients come to therapy reporting problems with depression, anxiety, troublesome relationships, or grieving a recent loss. Our work often includes a review of life history -- including the influences of family of origin, identity, culture, religion and place -- as well as your current life circumstances. You and I will work together to create a safe setting and use those presenting symptoms as stepping stones for you to achieve a more authentically lived and fulfilling life.
(520) 441-8151 View (520) 441-8151
Photo of Brooke Hoeferle, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Brooke Hoeferle
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I draw from therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Hello my name is Brooke! I primarily work with with neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults (i.e., those with brain differences that influence their everyday strengths/challenges). These strengths and challenges differ from those that utilize their brains similarly to the majority of society. I have experience supporting clients and their families navigating ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, along with other learning and developmental differences. I am passionate about addressing the unique ways in which neurodivergent individuals experience mental health struggles.
I draw from therapeutic modalities such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Hello my name is Brooke! I primarily work with with neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults (i.e., those with brain differences that influence their everyday strengths/challenges). These strengths and challenges differ from those that utilize their brains similarly to the majority of society. I have experience supporting clients and their families navigating ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Giftedness, along with other learning and developmental differences. I am passionate about addressing the unique ways in which neurodivergent individuals experience mental health struggles.
(602) 844-4198 View (602) 844-4198
Photo of Kari L Hesketh, Counselor in Catalina, AZ
Kari L Hesketh
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
I believe people are courageous to face their individual and relationship challenges. My role as a therapist is to assist my clients toward a more desirable future and provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment that nurtures growth and healing. I approach therapy from an integrative holistic perspective. My approach is influenced largely by but not limited to Client-centered, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), EMDR (Eye-movement desensitization reprocessing) trauma therapy, play therapy, sandtray, expressive arts, and Neurofeedback Brain Training for individuals and families.
I believe people are courageous to face their individual and relationship challenges. My role as a therapist is to assist my clients toward a more desirable future and provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive environment that nurtures growth and healing. I approach therapy from an integrative holistic perspective. My approach is influenced largely by but not limited to Client-centered, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), EMDR (Eye-movement desensitization reprocessing) trauma therapy, play therapy, sandtray, expressive arts, and Neurofeedback Brain Training for individuals and families.
(520) 376-1502 View (520) 376-1502
Photo of Kristy Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Catalina, AZ
Kristy Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233
I provide therapy for children, families and individuals. My approach is playful, creative and fun. I practice from a Social Work perspective, taking into account all of the relationships, stressors, strengths and support a person has surrounding them. My approach is a collaborative effort with parents, who bring the most important perspective and knowledge regarding their children. Working together will only make us more successful in creating real change. I utilize many therapeutic techniques, including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Play, Sensory, Behavior Modification and more.
I provide therapy for children, families and individuals. My approach is playful, creative and fun. I practice from a Social Work perspective, taking into account all of the relationships, stressors, strengths and support a person has surrounding them. My approach is a collaborative effort with parents, who bring the most important perspective and knowledge regarding their children. Working together will only make us more successful in creating real change. I utilize many therapeutic techniques, including Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, Play, Sensory, Behavior Modification and more.
(602) 497-1643 View (602) 497-1643

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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.