Expressive Arts Therapists in Eaton County, MI

Photo of Alexis A. Littlejohn, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Alexis A. Littlejohn
Counselor, MA, LLPC, BA
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48917  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Alexis & I would like to help you explore & discover new methods to help you heal. My person centered approach & warming style will invite you to examine deep seated traumas, while peeling back the layers of dysfunctional behaviors to get to the core issues. It is my desire & aim to do no harm, learn your personality, character traits & then dig deeper into solution based modalities so we can develop a genuine rapport & plan of action to get & keep you on track! My motto is "Be Real While You Heal" & I firmly believe with in depth introspection & accountability, that we can obtain & solidify your healing!
Welcome! My name is Alexis & I would like to help you explore & discover new methods to help you heal. My person centered approach & warming style will invite you to examine deep seated traumas, while peeling back the layers of dysfunctional behaviors to get to the core issues. It is my desire & aim to do no harm, learn your personality, character traits & then dig deeper into solution based modalities so we can develop a genuine rapport & plan of action to get & keep you on track! My motto is "Be Real While You Heal" & I firmly believe with in depth introspection & accountability, that we can obtain & solidify your healing!
(269) 399-3577 View (269) 399-3577
Photo of Elsa Heenan Holistic Counseling, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Elsa Heenan Holistic Counseling
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP-2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Ledge, MI 48837  (Online Only)
Life feels difficult to manage when we become stuck in the ways we navigate or react in the world. I look forward to supporting you onto a healthier pathway that moves you toward feeling better and increasing your capacity to address your triggers in a more productive way. I practice client-centered trauma-informed therapy and believe you inherently have the answers to solving the issues occurring within your life. I encourage you to take the steps to build a more satisfying life that includes deeper meaning, self-exploration, and hopefully adding some humor along the way.
Life feels difficult to manage when we become stuck in the ways we navigate or react in the world. I look forward to supporting you onto a healthier pathway that moves you toward feeling better and increasing your capacity to address your triggers in a more productive way. I practice client-centered trauma-informed therapy and believe you inherently have the answers to solving the issues occurring within your life. I encourage you to take the steps to build a more satisfying life that includes deeper meaning, self-exploration, and hopefully adding some humor along the way.
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Photo of Dr. Debra J. Farrell, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Dr. Debra J. Farrell
Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, CAADC, CRC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48917
Compassionate, resourceful Ph.D level therapist assisting in areas of self, family, home, school, work, and community. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Occupational Therapist in Michigan. Over 41 years of combined experience working in mental/behavioral health rehab, alcohol/drug rehab, medical/physical rehab, and industrial/vocational rehab. "Biopsychosocial-spiritual" approach to "heartache, loss, healing, recovery, and transformation" using conventional, non-traditional, and complementary approaches. I will help you tap into your personal resilience to overcome any barriers to your lifelong success and happiness.
Compassionate, resourceful Ph.D level therapist assisting in areas of self, family, home, school, work, and community. Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Occupational Therapist in Michigan. Over 41 years of combined experience working in mental/behavioral health rehab, alcohol/drug rehab, medical/physical rehab, and industrial/vocational rehab. "Biopsychosocial-spiritual" approach to "heartache, loss, healing, recovery, and transformation" using conventional, non-traditional, and complementary approaches. I will help you tap into your personal resilience to overcome any barriers to your lifelong success and happiness.
(517) 826-4891 View (517) 826-4891
Photo of Serene Pathways Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
Serene Pathways Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48917
Have you experienced a situation or an event that has caused you emotional pain and a loss of self? Does it interfere with the way you want to live? Everyone experiences emotional trauma whether little or big. Psychological trauma is defined as an emotional wound that creates distress or a disruption in your life. I specialize in helping others through the traumas of their life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of experience. My overall passion is to encourage, empower and support others as they follow the journey of their heart.
Have you experienced a situation or an event that has caused you emotional pain and a loss of self? Does it interfere with the way you want to live? Everyone experiences emotional trauma whether little or big. Psychological trauma is defined as an emotional wound that creates distress or a disruption in your life. I specialize in helping others through the traumas of their life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of experience. My overall passion is to encourage, empower and support others as they follow the journey of their heart.
(517) 618-0643 View (517) 618-0643
Photo of Jennifer Flores, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Jennifer Flores
Counselor, LLPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48917
My name is Jennifer Flores and my passion is being able to assist others in their total healing and repair; mentally, emotionally, and socially. I have extensive knowledge and sensitivity in working with people on self care, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and restoration, substance abuse, parenting challenges, career concerns, anxiety, depression, and stress, including life stressors. I work with an eclectic model using different styles to assist each individual, based on their unique needs.
My name is Jennifer Flores and my passion is being able to assist others in their total healing and repair; mentally, emotionally, and socially. I have extensive knowledge and sensitivity in working with people on self care, grief and loss, relationship difficulties and restoration, substance abuse, parenting challenges, career concerns, anxiety, depression, and stress, including life stressors. I work with an eclectic model using different styles to assist each individual, based on their unique needs.
(517) 883-4386 View (517) 883-4386
Photo of J Robin Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
J Robin Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48917
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I have a special interest in treating trauma and loss as well as religious trauma and faith transitions. I am relational therapist using an integrative approach, drawing on the strategies that best fit the person I am working with. Play therapy, sandtray therapy and art therapy-informed techniques are mediums that I use in addition to traditional therapy techniques. Above all, the success of therapy depends on the relationship between client and therapist. I aim to cater to the individual needs of those I work with and what they respond to best.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of mental health needs. I have a special interest in treating trauma and loss as well as religious trauma and faith transitions. I am relational therapist using an integrative approach, drawing on the strategies that best fit the person I am working with. Play therapy, sandtray therapy and art therapy-informed techniques are mediums that I use in addition to traditional therapy techniques. Above all, the success of therapy depends on the relationship between client and therapist. I aim to cater to the individual needs of those I work with and what they respond to best.
(517) 618-0362 View (517) 618-0362
Photo of Michele Creech, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
Michele Creech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48907  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Maya Angelou once said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Finding a therapist you feel safe telling your story to can be scary; not telling your story can be agony.
Maya Angelou once said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Finding a therapist you feel safe telling your story to can be scary; not telling your story can be agony.
(231) 538-2575 View (231) 538-2575

Online Therapists

Photo of Natalie Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Natalie Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
She seeks to provide practical, evidence-based interventions while also incorporating the use of mindfulness, movement, and the expressive arts to transform challenges into opportunities to live the life those truly wish to experience and embody.
Natalie believes the answers to our own healing are within us, and that each person has their own unique path to discovering their purpose in life. Often times, we need support in our processes of growth, and her passion lies in supporting others in renewing their mind and body by instilling greater levels of well-being, fulfillment, and potential. Natalie has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate stressors, experience relational challenges, trauma, adjustment concerns, explore their identity, and more.
She seeks to provide practical, evidence-based interventions while also incorporating the use of mindfulness, movement, and the expressive arts to transform challenges into opportunities to live the life those truly wish to experience and embody.
Natalie believes the answers to our own healing are within us, and that each person has their own unique path to discovering their purpose in life. Often times, we need support in our processes of growth, and her passion lies in supporting others in renewing their mind and body by instilling greater levels of well-being, fulfillment, and potential. Natalie has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate stressors, experience relational challenges, trauma, adjustment concerns, explore their identity, and more.
(616) 345-5884 View (616) 345-5884
Photo of Marisa Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
Marisa Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children (5+), teens and adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children (5+), teens and adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
(269) 443-1496 View (269) 443-1496
Photo of Integrity Modern Wellness , Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Integrity Modern Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niles, MI 49120
I am a Holistic Therapist and I utilize evidence based techniques from Neuroscience, Positive Psychology, Trauma Informed Care, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Somatic Mind/Body, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts Therapy to help each client develop their own specialized Wellness Plan to meet their goals.
Accepting new high achieving, Couples and Individuals struggling with relationships, stress, anxiety, self doubt or not feeling “good enough” for In Person and Telehealth sessions! Clients tell me that I am Zen - warm, calm, accepting and real, with a great sense of humor. They tell me they learn helpful coping skills and feel more hopeful and motivated when we meet. You will feel the good vibes in session and together we will establish a safe place for you to be able to express your feelings and learn new ways to cope and improve your relationship with yourself and those you love, based on what brings you happiness and peace.
I am a Holistic Therapist and I utilize evidence based techniques from Neuroscience, Positive Psychology, Trauma Informed Care, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Somatic Mind/Body, Mindfulness, and Expressive Arts Therapy to help each client develop their own specialized Wellness Plan to meet their goals.
Accepting new high achieving, Couples and Individuals struggling with relationships, stress, anxiety, self doubt or not feeling “good enough” for In Person and Telehealth sessions! Clients tell me that I am Zen - warm, calm, accepting and real, with a great sense of humor. They tell me they learn helpful coping skills and feel more hopeful and motivated when we meet. You will feel the good vibes in session and together we will establish a safe place for you to be able to express your feelings and learn new ways to cope and improve your relationship with yourself and those you love, based on what brings you happiness and peace.
(269) 743-2295 View (269) 743-2295
Photo of Keisha McDonald, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Keisha McDonald
Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? Perhaps you're feeling down, anxious & unsure about the future or just feel that you aren't living your best life. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? Perhaps you're feeling down, anxious & unsure about the future or just feel that you aren't living your best life. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
(616) 266-7081 View (616) 266-7081
Photo of Irene Soléa Antonellis in Eaton County, MI
Irene Soléa Antonellis
MA, LPC, LMHC, CIRT
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
My work blends Imago Relationship Therapy, Mindfulness and Expressive Arts, Brainspotting, Somatics, Internal Family Systems, trauma-informed ARC.
I offer individuals and couples evidence-based approaches to heal emotional struggles, build sustainable health/wellness, and transform your relationships and life. Your sessions may include frank and thought-provoking discussion of your road blocks, including concrete ways to heal your core emotional wounds; a guided mindfulness, body-based, Imago or Brainspotting exercise; and practices for connecting to your strength and empowerment. Together we will focus on tangible, on-the-ground results in your life.
My work blends Imago Relationship Therapy, Mindfulness and Expressive Arts, Brainspotting, Somatics, Internal Family Systems, trauma-informed ARC.
I offer individuals and couples evidence-based approaches to heal emotional struggles, build sustainable health/wellness, and transform your relationships and life. Your sessions may include frank and thought-provoking discussion of your road blocks, including concrete ways to heal your core emotional wounds; a guided mindfulness, body-based, Imago or Brainspotting exercise; and practices for connecting to your strength and empowerment. Together we will focus on tangible, on-the-ground results in your life.
(248) 728-0876 View (248) 728-0876
Photo of Samantha Doorn, LPC Intern in Eaton County, MI
Samantha Doorn
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I find that using play-based activities, expressive arts, and mindfulness with children, teens, and adults helps make our time together more comfortable.
Have you ever felt like you’re craving something more in your life but aren’t sure where to start? Felt like you’re overwhelmed in your season of life or felt stuck in the same day-to-day cycle? I believe that we as humans possess a wide variety of strengths and are capable of far more than we give ourselves credit for. As a counselor, I believe that you are the expert on your own life. You are the one living it after all! My role is to work together with you on areas of your life that you’re craving change or that you’re experiencing a problem with.
I find that using play-based activities, expressive arts, and mindfulness with children, teens, and adults helps make our time together more comfortable.
Have you ever felt like you’re craving something more in your life but aren’t sure where to start? Felt like you’re overwhelmed in your season of life or felt stuck in the same day-to-day cycle? I believe that we as humans possess a wide variety of strengths and are capable of far more than we give ourselves credit for. As a counselor, I believe that you are the expert on your own life. You are the one living it after all! My role is to work together with you on areas of your life that you’re craving change or that you’re experiencing a problem with.
(616) 404-0038 View (616) 404-0038
Photo of Heidi Ann Dudgeon, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Heidi Ann Dudgeon
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
As a co-creator of wellness, my practice endorses the art of personalized healing. My compassionate, creative, client-centered focus draws from the wisdom of several established disciplines to facilitate optimal health through the application of techniques derived from psychological, counseling, mindfulness, multicultural philosophy, spiritual counseling and the expressive arts. My practice builds upon an individual's strengths, enhances expression and increases personal insight and well-being. Ultimately, my goal is to facilitate a safe, trusting and peaceful space in which my clients can heal, grow and ultimately thrive.
As a co-creator of wellness, my practice endorses the art of personalized healing. My compassionate, creative, client-centered focus draws from the wisdom of several established disciplines to facilitate optimal health through the application of techniques derived from psychological, counseling, mindfulness, multicultural philosophy, spiritual counseling and the expressive arts. My practice builds upon an individual's strengths, enhances expression and increases personal insight and well-being. Ultimately, my goal is to facilitate a safe, trusting and peaceful space in which my clients can heal, grow and ultimately thrive.
(949) 528-3457 View (949) 528-3457
Photo of Kailah Ayres-Tuttle, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Kailah Ayres-Tuttle
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
On a more experiential level, I utilize principles and strategies of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My client has the answers they need inside of them, they just need some perspective. Most of my clients have experienced trauma in their lives in some form, and struggled with finding themselves or finding meaning in their life experience afterward. I enjoy navigating and exploring the full-range of human experience including issues pertaining to identity and sexuality, unearthing fears and anxieties, boundary setting, and building expression in all areas of life.
On a more experiential level, I utilize principles and strategies of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My client has the answers they need inside of them, they just need some perspective. Most of my clients have experienced trauma in their lives in some form, and struggled with finding themselves or finding meaning in their life experience afterward. I enjoy navigating and exploring the full-range of human experience including issues pertaining to identity and sexuality, unearthing fears and anxieties, boundary setting, and building expression in all areas of life.
(248) 773-3240 View (248) 773-3240
Photo of Angela Brantley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Angela Brantley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Jackson, MI 49201
I will use Cognitive Behavior Therapy supplemented by an eclectic assortment of modalities including Polyvagal, Somatic, and Expressive Arts therapy to help you access your healing power within.
The decision to seek therapy can be scary. If you seek help with anxiety, depression, betrayal trauma, sexual addictions, childhood trauma, MPE/NPE adults, self-esteem issues or lingering effects of neglect or abandonment I'm here to help. Over the past 12 years, I have used a brain based, client centered, whole person perspective and developed a personalized approach based on each client's unique experiences and needs. All aspects of the person are considered in my approach to therapy, including health, family of origin relationships, physical and emotional wounds experienced, internalized beliefs and core values.
I will use Cognitive Behavior Therapy supplemented by an eclectic assortment of modalities including Polyvagal, Somatic, and Expressive Arts therapy to help you access your healing power within.
The decision to seek therapy can be scary. If you seek help with anxiety, depression, betrayal trauma, sexual addictions, childhood trauma, MPE/NPE adults, self-esteem issues or lingering effects of neglect or abandonment I'm here to help. Over the past 12 years, I have used a brain based, client centered, whole person perspective and developed a personalized approach based on each client's unique experiences and needs. All aspects of the person are considered in my approach to therapy, including health, family of origin relationships, physical and emotional wounds experienced, internalized beliefs and core values.
(517) 200-3725 View (517) 200-3725
Photo of Nurturing Selves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
Nurturing Selves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Flushing, MI 48433
I have been using TraumaPlay, play therapy, sand therapy, Sensory/Motor treatment, therapeutic games, and expressive arts therapies (like drawing, painting, sewing, slime-making, and crafts) with children and families for years to assist them on their healing journey.
Are you and your children struggling with the complexities of life during a pandemic, an unexpected change or conflict, or a traumatic event? I want to help you find the ways to navigate those challenges in a comfortable, connected, compassionate, and creative way.
I have been using TraumaPlay, play therapy, sand therapy, Sensory/Motor treatment, therapeutic games, and expressive arts therapies (like drawing, painting, sewing, slime-making, and crafts) with children and families for years to assist them on their healing journey.
Are you and your children struggling with the complexities of life during a pandemic, an unexpected change or conflict, or a traumatic event? I want to help you find the ways to navigate those challenges in a comfortable, connected, compassionate, and creative way.
(810) 888-0964 View (810) 888-0964
Jordan McKinney
Counselor, MS, LLC
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48126
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate CBT, play therapy interventions, expressive arts, and integrative orientations.
Counseling can be daunting for some, especially when your child is involved. What’s my first step? How do I choose the right counselor for myself, my child, or my family? I graduated from Walden University with a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I incorporate CBT, play therapy interventions, expressive arts, and integrative therapeutic orientations. I don't hav an ideal client because every single client is different. What works for one client won't work for every client. I am able to work closely with you and your child to make sure everyone feels involved and heard in the therapeutic relationship.
I incorporate CBT, play therapy interventions, expressive arts, and integrative orientations.
Counseling can be daunting for some, especially when your child is involved. What’s my first step? How do I choose the right counselor for myself, my child, or my family? I graduated from Walden University with a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I incorporate CBT, play therapy interventions, expressive arts, and integrative therapeutic orientations. I don't hav an ideal client because every single client is different. What works for one client won't work for every client. I am able to work closely with you and your child to make sure everyone feels involved and heard in the therapeutic relationship.
(313) 631-1885 View (313) 631-1885
Photo of Shannon E Aardema, Counselor in Eaton County, MI
Shannon E Aardema
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
For both my adult and children clients I also incorporate Expressive Arts Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and, Play Therapy.
I am thrilled to be able to offer counseling services to people that live in the West Michigan area. Although, I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, I also enjoy working with individuals and couples. If you are having difficulty with adjusting to new life circumstances, having relationship issues, or if you are a person that is living with a Mental Illness I am eager to help you work through your situation. Life is too short to face your problems alone and I am always willing to listen and help you work towards a new way to face your life's challenges.
For both my adult and children clients I also incorporate Expressive Arts Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and, Play Therapy.
I am thrilled to be able to offer counseling services to people that live in the West Michigan area. Although, I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, I also enjoy working with individuals and couples. If you are having difficulty with adjusting to new life circumstances, having relationship issues, or if you are a person that is living with a Mental Illness I am eager to help you work through your situation. Life is too short to face your problems alone and I am always willing to listen and help you work towards a new way to face your life's challenges.
(269) 533-5364 View (269) 533-5364
Photo of Erin Arwady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton County, MI
Erin Arwady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
As an LMSW with several years of experience, I have developed a balanced, relationship-driven, and creative approach to working with individuals and families from diverse populations. I have extensive experience working with children, adults, and families with various concerns including mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, and dual diagnosis. While I do not subscribe to any one modality of treatment, I have training and experience in utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapies, and holistic approaches.
As an LMSW with several years of experience, I have developed a balanced, relationship-driven, and creative approach to working with individuals and families from diverse populations. I have extensive experience working with children, adults, and families with various concerns including mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, and dual diagnosis. While I do not subscribe to any one modality of treatment, I have training and experience in utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapies, and holistic approaches.
(269) 397-3142 x3 View (269) 397-3142 x3

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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.