Expressive Arts Therapists in Sartell, MN

Photo of Brandon Jensen, MS, LMFT, PACC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PACC
Verified Verified
Sartell, MN 56377
I am committed to the restoration and improvement of familial relationships, and committed to generational change in families. I feel very strongly about working with individuals and families whatever their current situation may be, and working with them to establish positive changes that will positively affect generations to come in their families.
I am committed to the restoration and improvement of familial relationships, and committed to generational change in families. I feel very strongly about working with individuals and families whatever their current situation may be, and working with them to establish positive changes that will positively affect generations to come in their families.
(320) 318-6108 View (320) 318-6108
Photo of Brenda J. Arnold, NCC, LPCC, FMCHC, Counselor
Brenda J. Arnold
Counselor, NCC, LPCC, FMCHC
Verified Verified
Sartell, MN 56377  (Online Only)
Uncertainty and stress are a part of everyone’s life, but when these stressors impact your mind and body to the point of interfering with daily life, it is important to address those negative thought patterns, problem behaviors or past trauma that continue to get in the way of becoming your best self. It is my goal to offer non-judgmental support as you learn to develop positive coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts/behaviors and let go of old patterns that keep you stuck. Explore the benefits of blending integrative counseling techniques with health & wellness coaching to help you achieve lasting lifestyle change.
Uncertainty and stress are a part of everyone’s life, but when these stressors impact your mind and body to the point of interfering with daily life, it is important to address those negative thought patterns, problem behaviors or past trauma that continue to get in the way of becoming your best self. It is my goal to offer non-judgmental support as you learn to develop positive coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts/behaviors and let go of old patterns that keep you stuck. Explore the benefits of blending integrative counseling techniques with health & wellness coaching to help you achieve lasting lifestyle change.
(320) 295-1948 View (320) 295-1948

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leslie Russell-Martin - True Balance Counseling, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S, Psychologist
True Balance Counseling
Psychologist, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
(320) 632-5524 View (320) 632-5524
Photo of Emily Gustafson, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Gustafson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Waite Park, MN 56387
Hello! I'm Emily Gustafson, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe strongly in clients' innate wisdom, and I use a creative, encouraging approach to support clients to reconnect with their truth to find healing. I value authenticity, and work in a non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering style. I've worked as a therapist for 6 years. My experiences include working with children in foster care primarily focusing on trauma therapy, in an outpatient setting, within a residential chemical dependency treatment center, as well as in a partial hospitalization mental health program.
Hello! I'm Emily Gustafson, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe strongly in clients' innate wisdom, and I use a creative, encouraging approach to support clients to reconnect with their truth to find healing. I value authenticity, and work in a non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering style. I've worked as a therapist for 6 years. My experiences include working with children in foster care primarily focusing on trauma therapy, in an outpatient setting, within a residential chemical dependency treatment center, as well as in a partial hospitalization mental health program.
(320) 200-7894 View (320) 200-7894
Photo of Brittany A Phelps, MS , LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittany A Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a strength based, narrative, emotion focused therapist, and self-identified philosopher. I’ve been working in the field since 2012 with experience in multiple settings, including outpatient, in-home, school-located, and residential dual, mental health and chemical dependency, services and have worked with diverse individuals, couples, and families. However, my heart lies with adolescents, couples, and family work. As an artist, I enjoy helping others find their own creativity and hold a deep passion for life and its beauty. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships dynamics are areas of specialty.
Hello! I am a strength based, narrative, emotion focused therapist, and self-identified philosopher. I’ve been working in the field since 2012 with experience in multiple settings, including outpatient, in-home, school-located, and residential dual, mental health and chemical dependency, services and have worked with diverse individuals, couples, and families. However, my heart lies with adolescents, couples, and family work. As an artist, I enjoy helping others find their own creativity and hold a deep passion for life and its beauty. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships dynamics are areas of specialty.
(218) 276-5218 View (218) 276-5218
Photo of Pam Walz, MS, LMFT, RPT, IMH-E, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pam Walz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in supporting children and caregivers in understanding and managing behavioral concerns, emotions, trauma experiences, attachment and relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression. Bringing 25 years in the field of early childhood into my work, I approach therapy with a developmental, attachment, and family systems lens, while working to improve the functioning of individuals and family they are part of.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in supporting children and caregivers in understanding and managing behavioral concerns, emotions, trauma experiences, attachment and relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression. Bringing 25 years in the field of early childhood into my work, I approach therapy with a developmental, attachment, and family systems lens, while working to improve the functioning of individuals and family they are part of.
(320) 348-1298 View (320) 348-1298
Photo of Richard Chandler, MA, LPC, Counselor
Richard Chandler
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301  (Online Only)
Have you experienced infidelity, loss of trust, low intimacy, low sex or sexless marriage, hurtful arguing, silent treatment, anger, or threats of separation and divorce? I have helped couples improve their communication & intimacy. I seek to bring clarity to your relationship and, if possible, help you renew the attraction & romance that first brought you together. Couple's transformation packages for anger, divorce & infidelity. I specialize in strength-based, online teletherapy for couples & individual counseling. Please text, call, or email for a short phone or online conversation to see if working together is right for you.
Have you experienced infidelity, loss of trust, low intimacy, low sex or sexless marriage, hurtful arguing, silent treatment, anger, or threats of separation and divorce? I have helped couples improve their communication & intimacy. I seek to bring clarity to your relationship and, if possible, help you renew the attraction & romance that first brought you together. Couple's transformation packages for anger, divorce & infidelity. I specialize in strength-based, online teletherapy for couples & individual counseling. Please text, call, or email for a short phone or online conversation to see if working together is right for you.
(320) 358-6455 View (320) 358-6455
Photo of Linda C Scherer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda C Scherer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56304
Seeking counseling to find our way through challenges requires courage and strength. I help people cope with loss and trauma and manage life transitions. Sometimes feelings of anxiety and depression arise and show us what needs healing. I want to help you find that connection to your own sense of welbeing so that you can best manage whatever changes come. I have been a licensed therapy provider for 22 years working with adolescents and adults. I offer individual counseling, couples counseling, and an 8 week Mind Body Skills Group which teaches methods of mindfulness, use of imagery, accessing intuition, and self expression.
Seeking counseling to find our way through challenges requires courage and strength. I help people cope with loss and trauma and manage life transitions. Sometimes feelings of anxiety and depression arise and show us what needs healing. I want to help you find that connection to your own sense of welbeing so that you can best manage whatever changes come. I have been a licensed therapy provider for 22 years working with adolescents and adults. I offer individual counseling, couples counseling, and an 8 week Mind Body Skills Group which teaches methods of mindfulness, use of imagery, accessing intuition, and self expression.
(320) 434-2094 View (320) 434-2094

Online Therapists

Photo of Vanessa Marr, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Marr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to talk therapy, I provide creative body-mind supports such as EMDR, ACT, IFS, expressive arts and narrative therapies.
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
In addition to talk therapy, I provide creative body-mind supports such as EMDR, ACT, IFS, expressive arts and narrative therapies.
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
(763) 373-4975 View (763) 373-4975
Photo of Alyssa Perau, LMFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alyssa Perau
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My goal is to create a safe space for conversations and growth around personal identity, sexuality, healthy relationships, boundaries, communication, and incorporate expressive arts into sessions as part of your therapeutic process.
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent marriage and family therapy intern. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. As of right now I do not have any space for individual adults, but will again in 2025. I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
My goal is to create a safe space for conversations and growth around personal identity, sexuality, healthy relationships, boundaries, communication, and incorporate expressive arts into sessions as part of your therapeutic process.
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent marriage and family therapy intern. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. As of right now I do not have any space for individual adults, but will again in 2025. I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
(651) 615-3520 x159 View (651) 615-3520 x159
Photo of Carrie Sword - Dr. Carrie Sword, Jungian Psychotherapist, PhD, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Carrie Sword, Jungian Psychotherapist
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I love working with dreams, and have experience using many modalities: active imagination, expressive arts, psychodrama, writing, somatic processing, and of course talk therapy.
If you want to move beyond depression or anxiety and also live from your depths, the therapy I offer may be a match for you. I provide Jungian psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, and dream therapy. A great advantage of this approach is that it's interesting. I can help you understand what's happening in your unconscious mind. Once you have this deeper insight, you can better understand both your potential, and the barriers that keep you stuck.
I love working with dreams, and have experience using many modalities: active imagination, expressive arts, psychodrama, writing, somatic processing, and of course talk therapy.
If you want to move beyond depression or anxiety and also live from your depths, the therapy I offer may be a match for you. I provide Jungian psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, and dream therapy. A great advantage of this approach is that it's interesting. I can help you understand what's happening in your unconscious mind. Once you have this deeper insight, you can better understand both your potential, and the barriers that keep you stuck.
(612) 800-0203 View (612) 800-0203
Photo of Sandra Haukom Reardon, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Haukom Reardon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
(612) 255-4642 View (612) 255-4642
Photo of Morgan Boeltl: Adults - Morgan Boeltl: Adults, Trauma, Substance Abuse , BS, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Boeltl: Adults, Trauma, Substance Abuse
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I am a biracial female therapist who loves working with adult individuals that are ready to prioritize their mental health. I help clients with relationships, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, life changes, grief/loss, and self expression. I am committed to building trusting relationships where clients feel empowered. I utilize EMDR, Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic and expressive arts techniques in my work Previously I worked in the community with the SPMI (Severe & Persistent Mental Illness) population as well as in a Substance Abuse Treatment center, lending a wealth of experience in complex cases.
I am a biracial female therapist who loves working with adult individuals that are ready to prioritize their mental health. I help clients with relationships, trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, self-esteem issues, life changes, grief/loss, and self expression. I am committed to building trusting relationships where clients feel empowered. I utilize EMDR, Relational-Cultural and Psychodynamic and expressive arts techniques in my work Previously I worked in the community with the SPMI (Severe & Persistent Mental Illness) population as well as in a Substance Abuse Treatment center, lending a wealth of experience in complex cases.
(651) 615-9144 View (651) 615-9144
Photo of Tina Coatta, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Coatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I use expressive arts and EMDR therapy approaches to help you express feelings and heal trauma through your mind and body.
Feeling stuck? I specialize in working with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma or are navigating life transitions. You've noticed yourself overthinking and struggling to get things done. You've been dealing with a lot of stress and having trouble finding enjoyment in life. It’s been hard to get along with people around you. You're feeling unsure about life goals and what’s next. You have experienced trauma and it’s impacting current relationships. You're feeling ready to take the next step and move forward.
I use expressive arts and EMDR therapy approaches to help you express feelings and heal trauma through your mind and body.
Feeling stuck? I specialize in working with teens and young adults who have experienced trauma or are navigating life transitions. You've noticed yourself overthinking and struggling to get things done. You've been dealing with a lot of stress and having trouble finding enjoyment in life. It’s been hard to get along with people around you. You're feeling unsure about life goals and what’s next. You have experienced trauma and it’s impacting current relationships. You're feeling ready to take the next step and move forward.
(952) 230-0617 View (952) 230-0617
Photo of Andrea Savage, MA, LPCC, YTT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Savage
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC, YTT-200
Verified Verified
Maple Grove, MN 55369  (Online Only)
I use somatic, ecology, and expressive arts elements to explore personal values and solidify a sense of self.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Therapist Intern, accepting new clients for telehealth counseling sessions. I specialize in those living with cancer, grief, major changes in life circumstances including career changes and retirement. My clients are generally over 40 years old. My clients benefit from processing through acceptance and self-compassion.
I use somatic, ecology, and expressive arts elements to explore personal values and solidify a sense of self.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Therapist Intern, accepting new clients for telehealth counseling sessions. I specialize in those living with cancer, grief, major changes in life circumstances including career changes and retirement. My clients are generally over 40 years old. My clients benefit from processing through acceptance and self-compassion.
(763) 363-7286 View (763) 363-7286
Photo of Jeressa O'Leary, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jeressa O'Leary
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I utilize techniques from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, and biofeedback.
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
I utilize techniques from modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, expressive arts therapy, play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, and biofeedback.
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
(952) 900-3643 x707 View (952) 900-3643 x707
Photo of Emily Christenson - Forward Bound Counseling PLLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Forward Bound Counseling PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Le Sueur, MN 56058
LMFT and board approved clinical supervisor. I have an interest in working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma. I have received training in EMDR as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS). I am creative in my combination of EMDR, IFS and polyvagal theory in treating trauma, understanding and repairing nervous system functioning. I also enjoy working with individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, life stress, self-esteem, abuse, identity, and life purpose exploration. I also love working with couples who want to strengthen or evaluate the health of their relationship.
LMFT and board approved clinical supervisor. I have an interest in working with individuals and families who have experienced trauma. I have received training in EMDR as well as Internal Family Systems (IFS). I am creative in my combination of EMDR, IFS and polyvagal theory in treating trauma, understanding and repairing nervous system functioning. I also enjoy working with individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, marital issues, life stress, self-esteem, abuse, identity, and life purpose exploration. I also love working with couples who want to strengthen or evaluate the health of their relationship.
(507) 225-1522 View (507) 225-1522
Photo of Beth A Lenz, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Beth A Lenz
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, making it seem as if we have little control over the path our lives are taking. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and other life challenges can make ordinary life difficult to navigate. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment that allows my clients to gain mastery over their situation rather than allowing their circumstances to run their lives. My therapeutic approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, unique to each client, and focuses on client strengths.
Sometimes life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, making it seem as if we have little control over the path our lives are taking. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, and other life challenges can make ordinary life difficult to navigate. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment that allows my clients to gain mastery over their situation rather than allowing their circumstances to run their lives. My therapeutic approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, unique to each client, and focuses on client strengths.
(612) 416-1664 View (612) 416-1664
Photo of Lisa Havelin - Lisa Havelin Counseling LLC, MA, MFA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Havelin Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
We can be kind, strong, intelligent, and resourceful individuals and still there will be times when we need other people to support us, that’s just how we’re built. Acknowledging that vulnerability and asking for what we need is true wisdom. I honor and respect that in you. Every person is a unique expression of life, our work together supports you in embodying an authentic way of living. I deeply respect the painful things that bring people to seek support, as thresholds that offer the potential for healing, connection and purpose, and work to cultivate that optimism while also honoring the suffering that leads to such transitions
We can be kind, strong, intelligent, and resourceful individuals and still there will be times when we need other people to support us, that’s just how we’re built. Acknowledging that vulnerability and asking for what we need is true wisdom. I honor and respect that in you. Every person is a unique expression of life, our work together supports you in embodying an authentic way of living. I deeply respect the painful things that bring people to seek support, as thresholds that offer the potential for healing, connection and purpose, and work to cultivate that optimism while also honoring the suffering that leads to such transitions
(651) 867-3192 View (651) 867-3192
Photo of Michelle Finley, MA, LMFT, DMFTABD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, DMFTABD
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships difficult? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships difficult? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
(763) 600-1315 View (763) 600-1315

Nearby Expressive Arts Therapists Searches for Sartell

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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.