Expressive Arts Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Ladonna Winnegan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ladonna Winnegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Along with utilizing expressive arts, I utilize a unique skill building approach to support you with fostering positive mental health and developing self awareness, inner confidence and interpersonal skills to help you thrive in life and relationships.
Hello! I am here to support you on your journey to becoming a better you. I offer a creative blend of therapeutic approaches for individuals in need of clarity and peace. Therapy and inner healing are not one size fits all and I utilize talk therapy, expressive arts and other mindfulness approaches to help you lessen the weight of pressure and anxiety, trust your inner self and move forward in the right direction.
Along with utilizing expressive arts, I utilize a unique skill building approach to support you with fostering positive mental health and developing self awareness, inner confidence and interpersonal skills to help you thrive in life and relationships.
Hello! I am here to support you on your journey to becoming a better you. I offer a creative blend of therapeutic approaches for individuals in need of clarity and peace. Therapy and inner healing are not one size fits all and I utilize talk therapy, expressive arts and other mindfulness approaches to help you lessen the weight of pressure and anxiety, trust your inner self and move forward in the right direction.
(202) 915-5204 View (202) 915-5204
Photo of Giselle Ruzany, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Giselle Ruzany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I use a combination of EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Psychology, and Expressive arts therapy.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
I use a combination of EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Psychology, and Expressive arts therapy.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
(703) 468-8906 View (703) 468-8906
Photo of Alyssa Louise McCall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alyssa Louise McCall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
In the past, I have supported clients through utilizing Problem Solving Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness Practices, Trauma-Informed Care, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Being our best selves is attainable when we allow ourselves to be on a path of peace, fulfillment, and self-awareness. I hold a passion for helping clients do just that. I work with clients through a holistic & individualistic approach to support them in moving closer to their personal & professional goals. I am here to help you on your journey to finding yourself, being in tune with your needs, and overcoming any trauma that may be hindering this. I specialize in supporting clients overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, workplace & relationship challenges, low career self-efficacy, discrimination, and so much more.
In the past, I have supported clients through utilizing Problem Solving Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness Practices, Trauma-Informed Care, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Being our best selves is attainable when we allow ourselves to be on a path of peace, fulfillment, and self-awareness. I hold a passion for helping clients do just that. I work with clients through a holistic & individualistic approach to support them in moving closer to their personal & professional goals. I am here to help you on your journey to finding yourself, being in tune with your needs, and overcoming any trauma that may be hindering this. I specialize in supporting clients overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, workplace & relationship challenges, low career self-efficacy, discrimination, and so much more.
(202) 914-1107 x701 View (202) 914-1107 x701
Photo of Lindsay King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Lindsay King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Through evidence-based DBT-Informed Skills Training and expressive arts/play, I help kids/teens and families, learn skills to resolve their challenges effectively, creating joyful lives.
Hi, I'm Lindsay King, a creative, compassionate counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience counseling kids, caregivers, & communities to heal and thrive. Does it seem like you and your child/teen are facing mental health challenges, stress, anxiety, change, or grief? Do you want to help your child improve their communication, coping, or focusing skills? Do you want an improved relationship with your child/teen? I’d love to help you and your family set goals, process stress, and learn new skills to last a lifetime. I primarily use expressive, DBT-informed therapy & training to encourage human growth and change.
Through evidence-based DBT-Informed Skills Training and expressive arts/play, I help kids/teens and families, learn skills to resolve their challenges effectively, creating joyful lives.
Hi, I'm Lindsay King, a creative, compassionate counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience counseling kids, caregivers, & communities to heal and thrive. Does it seem like you and your child/teen are facing mental health challenges, stress, anxiety, change, or grief? Do you want to help your child improve their communication, coping, or focusing skills? Do you want an improved relationship with your child/teen? I’d love to help you and your family set goals, process stress, and learn new skills to last a lifetime. I primarily use expressive, DBT-informed therapy & training to encourage human growth and change.
(202) 972-2902 View (202) 972-2902
Photo of Ann Duvall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Ann Duvall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I encourage self-care, aiding in the design of your personalized health program, including mindful practices and a host of healing & expressive arts, including nature-based and equine-facilitated therapy.
Our work together is designed to enable you to discover the teacher within, to connect with your wisest self and help guide you in all parts of your life. I use a tailored, integrative approach across several disciplines including therapy, life coaching, spiritual direction and Qigong. Whether you wish to discover your calling or need help transitioning from a personal or health crisis, my approach can assist in deepening your life experience at home, at work, and in relationships.
I encourage self-care, aiding in the design of your personalized health program, including mindful practices and a host of healing & expressive arts, including nature-based and equine-facilitated therapy.
Our work together is designed to enable you to discover the teacher within, to connect with your wisest self and help guide you in all parts of your life. I use a tailored, integrative approach across several disciplines including therapy, life coaching, spiritual direction and Qigong. Whether you wish to discover your calling or need help transitioning from a personal or health crisis, my approach can assist in deepening your life experience at home, at work, and in relationships.
(202) 640-4281 View (202) 640-4281
Photo of Hope Center for Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Hope Center for Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
We know every person is unique and as such the therapeutic process must be uniquely designed to cater to each client's needs. Using evidenced-based practices including Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed Care, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Strength Based, Narrative therapy, Mindfulness Based Approaches, Expressive Arts, among others, our team strives to support community members rise above the stressors that cause distress and suffering. We meet our clients wherever they are in their journey. In our work together, we tap your strengths and work in collaboration with you to achieve your wellness and therapy goals.
We know every person is unique and as such the therapeutic process must be uniquely designed to cater to each client's needs. Using evidenced-based practices including Psychodynamic, Trauma Informed Care, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Strength Based, Narrative therapy, Mindfulness Based Approaches, Expressive Arts, among others, our team strives to support community members rise above the stressors that cause distress and suffering. We meet our clients wherever they are in their journey. In our work together, we tap your strengths and work in collaboration with you to achieve your wellness and therapy goals.
(202) 953-4062 View (202) 953-4062
Photo of Elissa Gross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Elissa Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
I am trained in expressive arts therapy, sandtray, and play therapy modalities that I can utilize in our sessions.
Life can be overwhelming and you are not alone in your struggles. Though reaching out for help can feel scary, making this choice is often transformative. You deserve support and to have hope in your life. Therapy with me is a process where this happens and I find it an honor to walk beside and gently guide you through whatever you may be experiencing. I believe in basing our therapeutic relationship on acceptance, genuineness, and empathy. I work with all types of people--children, adolescents, and adults--who are struggling with the external, internal, or both in a non-judgmental, strengths-based, trauma-informed manner.
(202) 831-0229 View (202) 831-0229
Photo of Jo Pittman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Jo Pittman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Expressive arts help establish and maintain strong therapeutic alliances that help humans feel seen, heard, and understood.
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
Expressive arts help establish and maintain strong therapeutic alliances that help humans feel seen, heard, and understood.
Hi! I’m Jo, a Graduate Counseling Intern at Urban Playology, a mental health private practice based in DC. I work under the direct clinical supervision of Xanthia Johnson, LPC, LCPC-S. I am a graduate counseling student at the University of Pennsylvania. I believe that healing, albeit challenging at times, is a beautiful and attainable experience. My compass for social justice holds my belief that everyone deserves to have a high-quality therapy experience with a compassionate and skilled psychotherapist. It is an honor to partner with human beings who come from diverse backgrounds on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(888) 689-4339 x100 View (888) 689-4339 x100
Photo of Eva M Camacho, Counselor in Washington, DC
Eva M Camacho
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Her approach array from Psychoanalytic Techniques, Expressive Arts, Humanistic, Logotherapy, Mindfulness-Based, Emotional Focused, Cognitive-Behavior, Strength-Based, Narrative, and Bibliotherapy.
Therapy is a journey. Eva believes in adapting to each client's unique needs to foster a collaborative approach. She understands the courage it takes to share one's thoughts. Vulnerability in therapy can make one feel ambivalent, overwhelmed, and concerned. Eva respects clients and strives to establish a foundation of trust. Trust plays a critical role in therapy. The journey starts because client's make it possible. Eva walks with clients and guide them to identifying what is best for them. She is there to be a listener and a companion for the experience of growth and healing.
Her approach array from Psychoanalytic Techniques, Expressive Arts, Humanistic, Logotherapy, Mindfulness-Based, Emotional Focused, Cognitive-Behavior, Strength-Based, Narrative, and Bibliotherapy.
Therapy is a journey. Eva believes in adapting to each client's unique needs to foster a collaborative approach. She understands the courage it takes to share one's thoughts. Vulnerability in therapy can make one feel ambivalent, overwhelmed, and concerned. Eva respects clients and strives to establish a foundation of trust. Trust plays a critical role in therapy. The journey starts because client's make it possible. Eva walks with clients and guide them to identifying what is best for them. She is there to be a listener and a companion for the experience of growth and healing.
(240) 679-8362 View (240) 679-8362
Photo of James Chia, Counselor in Washington, DC
James Chia
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I incorporate expressive arts to encourage exploration, making our sessions dynamic and safe spaces.
Are you ready to find joy and connection? Are you struggling to tap into your resilience? Then you've come to the right place! My passion lies in helping individuals from diverse backgrounds. I specialize in assisting adults facing mood and anxiety disorders, grief, relationship struggles, and exploring identity. Originally from Singapore, I offer a safe, collaborative space, using trauma-informed approaches tailored to your cultural needs. Let's embark on a journey together as you navigate life's challenges.
I incorporate expressive arts to encourage exploration, making our sessions dynamic and safe spaces.
Are you ready to find joy and connection? Are you struggling to tap into your resilience? Then you've come to the right place! My passion lies in helping individuals from diverse backgrounds. I specialize in assisting adults facing mood and anxiety disorders, grief, relationship struggles, and exploring identity. Originally from Singapore, I offer a safe, collaborative space, using trauma-informed approaches tailored to your cultural needs. Let's embark on a journey together as you navigate life's challenges.
(240) 887-1909 View (240) 887-1909
Photo of Renu K. Aldrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Renu K. Aldrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
(571) 570-3897 View (571) 570-3897
Photo of Stephanie Musa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Stephanie Musa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring as it relates to work, college or graduate school, moving, making new friends, family, identity, relationships, life transitions, and adjustment concerns. I'm also passionate about working with caregivers and family members who may be seeking support in navigating the emotional challenges of caring for an individual with serious mental illness, including burnout, caregiver fatigue, depression, anxiety, guilt, and feelings of stress and overwhelm.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults struggling with depression, mood, anxiety, who are overwhelmed with the stressors that life can naturally bring as it relates to work, college or graduate school, moving, making new friends, family, identity, relationships, life transitions, and adjustment concerns. I'm also passionate about working with caregivers and family members who may be seeking support in navigating the emotional challenges of caring for an individual with serious mental illness, including burnout, caregiver fatigue, depression, anxiety, guilt, and feelings of stress and overwhelm.
(202) 517-6934 View (202) 517-6934
Photo of Sevilla King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sevilla King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Are you new to the area and feel overwhelmed starting a new life? Are you ready to find love in your life, or breaking up/divorcing, or are you and you partner ready to repair and grow your relationship? Are you looking to find a new job, move up the ladder, or change professions completely? Did you just graduate from College or Grad school and feel lost as to what career aligns with your interests and values? Or maybe you're struggling with the death of a loved one and are wondering how to fill the void. Perhaps you've decided to investigate your spirituality or change your religious affiliation.
Are you new to the area and feel overwhelmed starting a new life? Are you ready to find love in your life, or breaking up/divorcing, or are you and you partner ready to repair and grow your relationship? Are you looking to find a new job, move up the ladder, or change professions completely? Did you just graduate from College or Grad school and feel lost as to what career aligns with your interests and values? Or maybe you're struggling with the death of a loved one and are wondering how to fill the void. Perhaps you've decided to investigate your spirituality or change your religious affiliation.
(202) 759-6446 View (202) 759-6446
Photo of Fiona Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Fiona Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Would you like to live a more balanced and fulfilling life and know something needs to change but are not sure where to begin? I help adults gain the insight they need to re-work patterns and beliefs in order to discover who they are and what they want. My style is warm, genuine, and collaborative and my work is rooted in effective therapy techniques with a spirit of creativity. Some of the issues I address include: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, eating disorders and body image, relationships, creative and career fulfillment, and navigating life transitions and existential dilemmas. Read more at www.fionagriffintherapy.com.
Would you like to live a more balanced and fulfilling life and know something needs to change but are not sure where to begin? I help adults gain the insight they need to re-work patterns and beliefs in order to discover who they are and what they want. My style is warm, genuine, and collaborative and my work is rooted in effective therapy techniques with a spirit of creativity. Some of the issues I address include: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, eating disorders and body image, relationships, creative and career fulfillment, and navigating life transitions and existential dilemmas. Read more at www.fionagriffintherapy.com.
(202) 946-6254 View (202) 946-6254
Photo of Tiffani Boykin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Tiffani Boykin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, LCPC, RYT200, IARP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
I believe in the infinite potential within each individual. My approach is grounded in humanism, evidenced based interventions, and the wholistic wellness model.. As a therapist I consider physical, environmental, social, and spiritual factors in addition to emotional and mental issues contributing to presenting concerns.
(202) 759-2447 View (202) 759-2447
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ehrhardt Therapy and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
Welcome! Beginning therapy can be a difficult first step, but it often leads to important insights and tremendous personal growth. Therapy is not a one size fits all model. Our approach ensures you will receive the treatment that is right for you. Whether you're looking to address issues from the past or current life challenges, you don't have to do it alone. Our goal is to create a safe and warm therapeutic environment that makes you comfortable sharing.
(202) 642-6661 View (202) 642-6661
Photo of Dandelion Counseling & Care , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dandelion Counseling & Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
We a group psychotherapy practice comprised of clinicians who provide compassionate counseling and therapy services, using a team approach, to meet the diverse needs of busy Washingtonians. We love to support families or people individually in their journeys to live healthier and more well lives. Our team includes graduate student interns, provisionally-licensed clinicians, fully licensed clinicians, and an executive leadership and life coach.
(202) 999-3684 View (202) 999-3684
Photo of Monique J Douglas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Monique J Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families to assist with the social and emotional well-being of children 0-5 years of age. My focus of treatment has been to allow children to express themselves in a way in which to be free and in a nonthreatening way.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families to assist with the social and emotional well-being of children 0-5 years of age. My focus of treatment has been to allow children to express themselves in a way in which to be free and in a nonthreatening way.
(202) 519-7794 View (202) 519-7794
Photo of Naomi Nim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Naomi Nim
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MS, LPC, BC-DMT, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My work is grounded in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship and the knowledge that the mind and body are interconnected, and thus home to our emotions and our history, as well as a source of healing and growth. I will work with you to gain self-understanding, self-acceptance and self-esteem, healing from trauma, anxiety, or depression, and to strengthen your resources using a somatic, relational, and expressive approach. My work is informed by multicultural and community-based professional and academic experiences in the US and abroad.
My work is grounded in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship and the knowledge that the mind and body are interconnected, and thus home to our emotions and our history, as well as a source of healing and growth. I will work with you to gain self-understanding, self-acceptance and self-esteem, healing from trauma, anxiety, or depression, and to strengthen your resources using a somatic, relational, and expressive approach. My work is informed by multicultural and community-based professional and academic experiences in the US and abroad.
(301) 684-5016 View (301) 684-5016
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.