Expressive Arts Therapists in Saxapahaw, NC
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Miriam Lieberman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS, HTCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Not accepting new clients
Are you looking for a safe place to discuss what matters most to you? Family, work, relationships, health, transitions, grief, loss, children, trauma, life purpose, letting go of past hurts. I love assisting individuals and couples with relationship skills, communication issues, changing self defeating patterns, healing pain (physical and emotional), and learning to be one's best self across settings. I work with children and families in our ever changing world to improve relationships, performance, self awareness, mood, behavior. I bring my many years of experience working with young and old alike to this passionate pursuit of balanced living.
Are you looking for a safe place to discuss what matters most to you? Family, work, relationships, health, transitions, grief, loss, children, trauma, life purpose, letting go of past hurts. I love assisting individuals and couples with relationship skills, communication issues, changing self defeating patterns, healing pain (physical and emotional), and learning to be one's best self across settings. I work with children and families in our ever changing world to improve relationships, performance, self awareness, mood, behavior. I bring my many years of experience working with young and old alike to this passionate pursuit of balanced living.
Online Therapists
Bailee Ford
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
My work is rooted in the tenets of Child Centered Play Therapy, with the addition of expressive arts and mindfulness techniques.
I believe children have an inherent ability to work toward growth and solve their problems. I strive to create a safe environment where clients can do this work, with the support of the counselor. My desire is for counseling to be a space where children can be authentically themselves and practice new behaviors and perspectives. I also utilize frequent collaboration with caregivers to introduce lasting change outside of the therapeutic environment.
My work is rooted in the tenets of Child Centered Play Therapy, with the addition of expressive arts and mindfulness techniques.
I believe children have an inherent ability to work toward growth and solve their problems. I strive to create a safe environment where clients can do this work, with the support of the counselor. My desire is for counseling to be a space where children can be authentically themselves and practice new behaviors and perspectives. I also utilize frequent collaboration with caregivers to introduce lasting change outside of the therapeutic environment.
Akinlana Burrowes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
In addition to talk therapy, I use a unique blend of expressive arts and EMDR which targets your body.
Hey Sis! As a Black therapist to high-achieving executive women of color in both corporate and entertainment, I feel you juggling roles as a boss, wife, mom, caregiver, wearing all those hats with the S on your chest and superwoman cape on. I know you're tired and that's ok! You may feel stretched thin and the weight of responsibilities burdensome. Trying to be everything to everybody is hard and highly unrealistic. There's a need for a new paradigm shift and the shift starts with you. Let's shift towards healthier boundaries, greater clarity in purpose, work and life harmony, peace inside, pure joy, healing, and ultimate FREEDOM.
In addition to talk therapy, I use a unique blend of expressive arts and EMDR which targets your body.
Hey Sis! As a Black therapist to high-achieving executive women of color in both corporate and entertainment, I feel you juggling roles as a boss, wife, mom, caregiver, wearing all those hats with the S on your chest and superwoman cape on. I know you're tired and that's ok! You may feel stretched thin and the weight of responsibilities burdensome. Trying to be everything to everybody is hard and highly unrealistic. There's a need for a new paradigm shift and the shift starts with you. Let's shift towards healthier boundaries, greater clarity in purpose, work and life harmony, peace inside, pure joy, healing, and ultimate FREEDOM.
Joy Long
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
My clinical frameworks: Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Expressive Arts, Trauma-Conscious Yoga Method, Embodied Intimacy & Relationship Coaching and Eco-therapy.
Choosing the path of growth and change isn't for the faint of heart. Yet, you are deserving of leading an authentic life. My intention is to establish a supportive and empowering space for you to discover your authentic self, inner strength, and embrace your wholeness. Therapy can help you build a life that reflects the essence of Maya Angelou's words “..not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."
My clinical frameworks: Somatic Experiencing, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Expressive Arts, Trauma-Conscious Yoga Method, Embodied Intimacy & Relationship Coaching and Eco-therapy.
Choosing the path of growth and change isn't for the faint of heart. Yet, you are deserving of leading an authentic life. My intention is to establish a supportive and empowering space for you to discover your authentic self, inner strength, and embrace your wholeness. Therapy can help you build a life that reflects the essence of Maya Angelou's words “..not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."
Rachyl Nyoka
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, CPT, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713 (Online Only)
Healing isn’t a straight path—it’s an evolving journey. As we navigate life’s twists, sometimes we find ourselves needing to heal the same wounds in deeper ways. I work with women who are ready to explore the layers of their inner child, untangle the stories they've carried, and reclaim their authenticity. Whether you're an artist, healer, or someone familiar with the therapeutic process, I offer a creative, compassionate space to reconnect with the parts of you that have been silenced. Together, through Narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems, and expressive arts, we’ll rewrite your story and invite healing at your own pace.
Healing isn’t a straight path—it’s an evolving journey. As we navigate life’s twists, sometimes we find ourselves needing to heal the same wounds in deeper ways. I work with women who are ready to explore the layers of their inner child, untangle the stories they've carried, and reclaim their authenticity. Whether you're an artist, healer, or someone familiar with the therapeutic process, I offer a creative, compassionate space to reconnect with the parts of you that have been silenced. Together, through Narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems, and expressive arts, we’ll rewrite your story and invite healing at your own pace.
Elizabeth Abowd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
With my background in expressive arts therapy and disability, I use creative, proactive approaches to meet the needs of my clients, recognizing that one size does not fit all.
Distracted? Feeling overwhelmed by "the basics?" Wish you could just focus? ADHD is real. The challenges it brings can be difficult to navigate, especially when other people don’t understand what ADHD really is. I know because I have ADHD. My expertise isn’t just from a textbook or clinical experience—it’s from my life, too. Whether you received your diagnosis years ago or just last week, or you wonder if you might have ADHD, I am here to assist you on your journey.
With my background in expressive arts therapy and disability, I use creative, proactive approaches to meet the needs of my clients, recognizing that one size does not fit all.
Distracted? Feeling overwhelmed by "the basics?" Wish you could just focus? ADHD is real. The challenges it brings can be difficult to navigate, especially when other people don’t understand what ADHD really is. I know because I have ADHD. My expertise isn’t just from a textbook or clinical experience—it’s from my life, too. Whether you received your diagnosis years ago or just last week, or you wonder if you might have ADHD, I am here to assist you on your journey.
Brittany Starbuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (Online Only)
She incorporates a variety of treatment modalities in her work including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Social Emotional Learning, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the unique nee.
Brittany loves helping families work through challenges and coming up with strategies that best support each person’s individual needs. Brittany always provides a safe therapeutic environment for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a supportive space of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. Brittany also enjoys working with postpartum women/adults seeking help with parenting skills and mental health support after pregnancy and childbirth. As the mom to a young child herself, she understands the complexities of postpartum life and offers specialized support to new moms.
She incorporates a variety of treatment modalities in her work including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Social Emotional Learning, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the unique nee.
Brittany loves helping families work through challenges and coming up with strategies that best support each person’s individual needs. Brittany always provides a safe therapeutic environment for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a supportive space of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. Brittany also enjoys working with postpartum women/adults seeking help with parenting skills and mental health support after pregnancy and childbirth. As the mom to a young child herself, she understands the complexities of postpartum life and offers specialized support to new moms.
Therefore, other modalities used include directed play, expressive arts, strengths based, cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life stories are all unique and creative. These stories are a chapter (individuals) of a book (family) so I work with kids and adults. Each reflects why our role here is so important but with this story comes challenges which create emotions; emotions that can hurt yet make us feel alive. My hope is travel back through your story whether young or older with you. My playroom is a place where a child 3+ can use play to work through everything from daily living to focus/attention issues to traumas. Depending on the age of the child or adult it can impact how we journey through their story and what modality it needs to express itself.
Therefore, other modalities used include directed play, expressive arts, strengths based, cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life stories are all unique and creative. These stories are a chapter (individuals) of a book (family) so I work with kids and adults. Each reflects why our role here is so important but with this story comes challenges which create emotions; emotions that can hurt yet make us feel alive. My hope is travel back through your story whether young or older with you. My playroom is a place where a child 3+ can use play to work through everything from daily living to focus/attention issues to traumas. Depending on the age of the child or adult it can impact how we journey through their story and what modality it needs to express itself.
Ashley Esry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607 (Online Only)
I also have experience in expressive arts therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I received my Bachelors in Counseling and minor in Expressive Arts Therapy from Lesley University and my Masters of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have over ten years of experience working with mood disorders, trauma and addiction in various settings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I am passionate about working with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, attachment wounds, negative core beliefs and self esteem, body image, grief and loss, as well as addiction.
I also have experience in expressive arts therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I received my Bachelors in Counseling and minor in Expressive Arts Therapy from Lesley University and my Masters of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have over ten years of experience working with mood disorders, trauma and addiction in various settings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I am passionate about working with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, attachment wounds, negative core beliefs and self esteem, body image, grief and loss, as well as addiction.
Sarah E Rogers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University where I also received a certificate in Expressive Arts Therapy.
I will start seeing new clients in October! In life, I have found people to be fascinating as each person has their own stories, values and beliefs that guide their life. I hope to facilitate a healing space where clients can learn more about their beliefs, values, identities, pursue goals and address mental health concerns. I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, academic distress, relationship concerns, emotional dysregulation and ADHD.
I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University where I also received a certificate in Expressive Arts Therapy.
I will start seeing new clients in October! In life, I have found people to be fascinating as each person has their own stories, values and beliefs that guide their life. I hope to facilitate a healing space where clients can learn more about their beliefs, values, identities, pursue goals and address mental health concerns. I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, academic distress, relationship concerns, emotional dysregulation and ADHD.
Zaire E King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I practice with an eclectic approach to therapy integrating mindfulness, neuroscience, expressive arts and family systems, treating each client holistically.
Greetings! I’ve studied a multitude of counseling approaches for individuals, marriage and family systems. With over 15 years as a mental health provider, I understand the importance of destigmatizing mental health, and embodying social justice practice by serving marginalized communities and families. Utilizing a collaborative, person centered treatment approach, I focus on developing healthy coping skills and providing psychoeducation on your personal difficulties. Additionally, I believe in creating a warm and attuned environment where you feel heard, accepted and valued.
I practice with an eclectic approach to therapy integrating mindfulness, neuroscience, expressive arts and family systems, treating each client holistically.
Greetings! I’ve studied a multitude of counseling approaches for individuals, marriage and family systems. With over 15 years as a mental health provider, I understand the importance of destigmatizing mental health, and embodying social justice practice by serving marginalized communities and families. Utilizing a collaborative, person centered treatment approach, I focus on developing healthy coping skills and providing psychoeducation on your personal difficulties. Additionally, I believe in creating a warm and attuned environment where you feel heard, accepted and valued.
My approach integrates Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral theories, and I draw from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused.
As humans, we all face challenges that can become overwhelming. Maybe you want to learn how to better manage the challenges in your life. You want to feel empowered and purposeful, instead of feeling like your problems are the one in charge. Or perhaps you are seeking services for your child, who is struggling and could use some extra support. In my practice I collaborate with adults, teens, and kids on reaching their goals for greater wellness. Together we can address concerns such as anxiety, stress management, depression, life transitions, perfectionism & self-criticism, grief, or career & school issues.
My approach integrates Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral theories, and I draw from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused.
As humans, we all face challenges that can become overwhelming. Maybe you want to learn how to better manage the challenges in your life. You want to feel empowered and purposeful, instead of feeling like your problems are the one in charge. Or perhaps you are seeking services for your child, who is struggling and could use some extra support. In my practice I collaborate with adults, teens, and kids on reaching their goals for greater wellness. Together we can address concerns such as anxiety, stress management, depression, life transitions, perfectionism & self-criticism, grief, or career & school issues.
Casey Kenny
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
In sessions, I use techniques such as play therapy, expressive arts, sand tray, mindfulness, emotional freedom technique (tapping), and internal family systems.
Being a parent is TOUGH. I will listen to your concerns/hopes while providing a nonjudgmental environment to explore the issues your child and family may be facing. I am passionate about childhood mental health, and only work with children and teens (ages 2-16). Some children I see experience issues with adjustment, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, self-esteem, trauma, and interpersonal conflict. Some children ask to come to therapy; some don't. I focus on building trust and rapport with every client I work with.
In sessions, I use techniques such as play therapy, expressive arts, sand tray, mindfulness, emotional freedom technique (tapping), and internal family systems.
Being a parent is TOUGH. I will listen to your concerns/hopes while providing a nonjudgmental environment to explore the issues your child and family may be facing. I am passionate about childhood mental health, and only work with children and teens (ages 2-16). Some children I see experience issues with adjustment, anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, self-esteem, trauma, and interpersonal conflict. Some children ask to come to therapy; some don't. I focus on building trust and rapport with every client I work with.
Griffin Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
I enjoy using expressive arts with clients to help with processing emotion.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
I enjoy using expressive arts with clients to help with processing emotion.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
Becky Jorgenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, CEDS, NCTM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Becky is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and is completing the application to be a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist.
Becky provides holistic counseling services in a variety of treatment areas including: anxiety disorders, mood/depressive disorders, abuse, trauma, self-harm, eating disorders, post-abortion, behavioral issues, adjustment, career, spirituality, human trafficking, and grief. Becky's goal is to join her clients on their journey to freedom and wholeness through hearing their stories, identifying areas of change, and developing a plan of action using personal strengths and available resources to achieve desired goals. Clinically, Becky uses an eclectic approach to counseling including CBT, DBT, and Expressive Arts. Previous counseling experience includes residential/inpatient, intensive outpatient, crisis pregnancy, and private practice.
Becky is a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and is completing the application to be a Registered Expressive Arts Therapist.
Becky provides holistic counseling services in a variety of treatment areas including: anxiety disorders, mood/depressive disorders, abuse, trauma, self-harm, eating disorders, post-abortion, behavioral issues, adjustment, career, spirituality, human trafficking, and grief. Becky's goal is to join her clients on their journey to freedom and wholeness through hearing their stories, identifying areas of change, and developing a plan of action using personal strengths and available resources to achieve desired goals. Clinically, Becky uses an eclectic approach to counseling including CBT, DBT, and Expressive Arts. Previous counseling experience includes residential/inpatient, intensive outpatient, crisis pregnancy, and private practice.
My trauma-informed approach is attachment-based, integrating cognitive and behavioral therapies with narrative, play, and expressive arts with a feminist, neurodivergent, and queer-affirmative lens.
Our lives are woven from the threads of our storied experiences, each shaping who we are and how we construct meaning. My counseling philosophy promotes healing and transformation by attending to you and your stories with a belief in everyone's capacity for flourishing, fostered by acceptance, love, and belonging. Therapy is an empowering and collaborative journey nurtured by authenticity, trust, and compassion. You contain within yourself the resources you need to thrive. I'm here to help you work towards healing, resilience, and lasting change.
My trauma-informed approach is attachment-based, integrating cognitive and behavioral therapies with narrative, play, and expressive arts with a feminist, neurodivergent, and queer-affirmative lens.
Our lives are woven from the threads of our storied experiences, each shaping who we are and how we construct meaning. My counseling philosophy promotes healing and transformation by attending to you and your stories with a belief in everyone's capacity for flourishing, fostered by acceptance, love, and belonging. Therapy is an empowering and collaborative journey nurtured by authenticity, trust, and compassion. You contain within yourself the resources you need to thrive. I'm here to help you work towards healing, resilience, and lasting change.
Jailene Nieves-Mercado
Counselor, LCMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
I have an open, eclectic, and humor-filled therapeutic style that is inspired by expressive arts, strengths-based, person-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches.
Expression, in all of its forms, is empowerment. Being able to trust someone and feel safe with them is instrumental in amplifying expression. This is why it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. Clients may carry experiences that they do not have the words for — and that’s okay. As an art therapist, I use the creative process to support clients in connecting with themselves and build self-confidence and compassion. I specialize in working with survivors of trauma and individuals who are facing challenges related to self-worth, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and interpersonal difficulties.
I have an open, eclectic, and humor-filled therapeutic style that is inspired by expressive arts, strengths-based, person-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches.
Expression, in all of its forms, is empowerment. Being able to trust someone and feel safe with them is instrumental in amplifying expression. This is why it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. Clients may carry experiences that they do not have the words for — and that’s okay. As an art therapist, I use the creative process to support clients in connecting with themselves and build self-confidence and compassion. I specialize in working with survivors of trauma and individuals who are facing challenges related to self-worth, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and interpersonal difficulties.
With children, I utilize expressive arts such as play therapy to explore their feelings while the child feels safe and engaged.
We spend most days just trying to get through the day. I passionately believe that nothing else will matter unless your mental health is in the right place. I find therapy is learning to make your body and mind a safe place even when they seem out of control. I work with individuals to become attuned to their self. I meet my clients with authenticity and a refreshing energy to create a strong therapeutic relationship. I take therapy at the pace and comfort level of the client.
With children, I utilize expressive arts such as play therapy to explore their feelings while the child feels safe and engaged.
We spend most days just trying to get through the day. I passionately believe that nothing else will matter unless your mental health is in the right place. I find therapy is learning to make your body and mind a safe place even when they seem out of control. I work with individuals to become attuned to their self. I meet my clients with authenticity and a refreshing energy to create a strong therapeutic relationship. I take therapy at the pace and comfort level of the client.
Samantha Boyce
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained as a licensed clinical mental health counselor and I am a registered expressive arts therapist.
My clients reach out because they need support during a time of transition, are struggling with anxiety or depression, or want to address past traumas. I work with teens, adults and kids to help them cope with stress and respond to suffering. My clients report relief at being able to express themselves freely and feel seen. They enjoy the opportunity to use creative arts in the therapy space, especially as the arts are uniquely positioned to respond to trauma. No art experience is necessary to benefit from expressive arts therapy. If you're open, and if you've ever used a crayon or listened to music, that's all you need.
I am trained as a licensed clinical mental health counselor and I am a registered expressive arts therapist.
My clients reach out because they need support during a time of transition, are struggling with anxiety or depression, or want to address past traumas. I work with teens, adults and kids to help them cope with stress and respond to suffering. My clients report relief at being able to express themselves freely and feel seen. They enjoy the opportunity to use creative arts in the therapy space, especially as the arts are uniquely positioned to respond to trauma. No art experience is necessary to benefit from expressive arts therapy. If you're open, and if you've ever used a crayon or listened to music, that's all you need.
Larisa Kenney Hobbs
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, RYT-200, RPYT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Drawing from trauma-informed yoga, EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, and expressive arts, I focus on helping clients develop self-awareness, regulate their nervous system, and learn to be grounded in the present moment.
I am an EMDR trained therapist with a certification in Expressive Arts Therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a yoga teacher, I bring a body-centered approach to my counseling work. I am passionate about integrating mind+body awareness with creativity to support mental well-being. I enjoy combining modalities of EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I believe the creative process to be a powerful tool in healing, often incorporating different expressive arts modalities, including writing, dance, movement, poetry, visual journaling, painting, drawing, and others.
Drawing from trauma-informed yoga, EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, and expressive arts, I focus on helping clients develop self-awareness, regulate their nervous system, and learn to be grounded in the present moment.
I am an EMDR trained therapist with a certification in Expressive Arts Therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a yoga teacher, I bring a body-centered approach to my counseling work. I am passionate about integrating mind+body awareness with creativity to support mental well-being. I enjoy combining modalities of EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I believe the creative process to be a powerful tool in healing, often incorporating different expressive arts modalities, including writing, dance, movement, poetry, visual journaling, painting, drawing, and others.
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.