Art Therapy in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Brooks Decker, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Brooks Decker
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I am also skilled in using art as a therapeutic device.
Life is hard and hard is normal, but sometimes it becomes too heavy, and you need support and a fresh perspective to feel confident, secure and hopeful. I believe that you are the expert concerning your life, and my job is to collaborate with you to help you achieve your goals and make some sense of the world and your place in it. I am a holistic clinician, which means I don’t follow a typical medical model of mental health. My goal is to help you process your life through the lens of understanding that many of the things which hinder you, are a result of difficult experiences and circumstances, rather than inescapable illness.
I am also skilled in using art as a therapeutic device.
Life is hard and hard is normal, but sometimes it becomes too heavy, and you need support and a fresh perspective to feel confident, secure and hopeful. I believe that you are the expert concerning your life, and my job is to collaborate with you to help you achieve your goals and make some sense of the world and your place in it. I am a holistic clinician, which means I don’t follow a typical medical model of mental health. My goal is to help you process your life through the lens of understanding that many of the things which hinder you, are a result of difficult experiences and circumstances, rather than inescapable illness.
(904) 585-2626 View (904) 585-2626
Photo of Valerie Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Valerie Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach is rooted in traditional psychotherapy, with the option to incorporate creative therapies like art and journaling, as well as somatic work, to help explore and process emotions in ways that words sometimes can’t capture.
Telehealth Therapy for PTSD, Infidelity & Abuse Recovery, and Emotional Empowerment for Residents of Florida & Georgia. I offer telehealth therapy for adults seeking clarity, healing, and personal growth. My focus is on PTSD, infidelity and abuse recovery, anxiety, and depression.
My approach is rooted in traditional psychotherapy, with the option to incorporate creative therapies like art and journaling, as well as somatic work, to help explore and process emotions in ways that words sometimes can’t capture.
Telehealth Therapy for PTSD, Infidelity & Abuse Recovery, and Emotional Empowerment for Residents of Florida & Georgia. I offer telehealth therapy for adults seeking clarity, healing, and personal growth. My focus is on PTSD, infidelity and abuse recovery, anxiety, and depression.
(904) 921-2914 View (904) 921-2914
Photo of Dina Leah Ricco, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, ATR
Dina Leah Ricco
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I specialize in individual psychotherapy and life coaching.
At times in life, we can experience emotional pain or distress, either within ourselves or in our relationships. This pain can feel overwhelming or unbearable, especially when coping strategies that worked before become ineffective. If you're ready to creatively explore together and begin a process of growth and healing, I am here to help.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I specialize in individual psychotherapy and life coaching.
At times in life, we can experience emotional pain or distress, either within ourselves or in our relationships. This pain can feel overwhelming or unbearable, especially when coping strategies that worked before become ineffective. If you're ready to creatively explore together and begin a process of growth and healing, I am here to help.
(904) 578-7763 View (904) 578-7763
Photo of Rebecca Buch, Counselor, MS, LMHC, NPT-C
Rebecca Buch
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
From traditional talk therapy to art and play therapy techniques, I will adjust to enhance your therapeutic needs and experience.
Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. I am here to help you.
From traditional talk therapy to art and play therapy techniques, I will adjust to enhance your therapeutic needs and experience.
Are you struggling to bring your life under control? Are you feeling helpless with your loved ones? Allow me to help you bring balance back to your life and achieve your goals. I have the skills, experience, and education to help you with anxiety, depression, ASD, OCD, BP, trauma, parenting/co-parenting, LGBTQIA2+ issues, and more. I have success with helping clients recover from the pain of loss, divorce, separation, and empty nest syndrome. I can assist you, or your loved one, in preparing for significant life changes in a career or selecting and preparing for college. ADHD assessments for 504/IEP available. I am here to help you.
(904) 664-4645 View (904) 664-4645
Photo of Kelly Charest, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Kelly Charest
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225
I blend elements of traditional talk therapy with strategies from art therapy and child-centered play therapy to create an environment where each individual feels supported and can begin to achieve their goals.
Kelly Charest is a Registered Mental Health Intern. She received her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She was born and raised here in Jacksonville and is invested in serving those in her community. She works primarily with children, teenagers, adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life-stage transitions, relationships, self-esteem, and goal setting. She uses evidence-based treatment to provide coping skills to help you rediscover the spark within yourself.
I blend elements of traditional talk therapy with strategies from art therapy and child-centered play therapy to create an environment where each individual feels supported and can begin to achieve their goals.
Kelly Charest is a Registered Mental Health Intern. She received her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She was born and raised here in Jacksonville and is invested in serving those in her community. She works primarily with children, teenagers, adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life-stage transitions, relationships, self-esteem, and goal setting. She uses evidence-based treatment to provide coping skills to help you rediscover the spark within yourself.
(904) 579-7212 View (904) 579-7212
Photo of Charity Parsons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Charity Parsons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Additionally, I use DBT techniques and art therapy techniques.
You have taken that important first step on your road to healing! My role as your therapist is to empower you to make positive changes and guide you on your path to emotional wellness, improved daily functioning and self love. I’m so glad you’re here and I am honored to be part of your unique journey. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. I currently offer mental health support services on the following platforms: Better Help Wellnite Please call, text or email me to determine how I can best meet your needs
Additionally, I use DBT techniques and art therapy techniques.
You have taken that important first step on your road to healing! My role as your therapist is to empower you to make positive changes and guide you on your path to emotional wellness, improved daily functioning and self love. I’m so glad you’re here and I am honored to be part of your unique journey. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered. I currently offer mental health support services on the following platforms: Better Help Wellnite Please call, text or email me to determine how I can best meet your needs
(904) 310-1816 View (904) 310-1816
Photo of Lesley Vickerie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lesley Vickerie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sessions will include a visual art component, psychoeducation & CBT, humanistic, mindfulness, or strength-based therapy interventions.
I love working with preteens, teens, and early adults who are in their age of self-discovery. My clients are eager to improve, but unsure of what tools are required to make this a reality. They may feel confused, overwhelmed, or unaware of what their next steps in life or their career may be. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Sessions will include a visual art component, psychoeducation & CBT, humanistic, mindfulness, or strength-based therapy interventions.
I love working with preteens, teens, and early adults who are in their age of self-discovery. My clients are eager to improve, but unsure of what tools are required to make this a reality. They may feel confused, overwhelmed, or unaware of what their next steps in life or their career may be. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(904) 736-3626 View (904) 736-3626
Photo of Kim Norwicz, Counselor, LMHC, QS
Kim Norwicz
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Art Therapist, and Qualified Supervisor through the state of Florida.
I know that choosing a therapist can be quite the quest, as there are so many of us out there. With all the fish in the sea, it is important that you find someone that you resonate with. YOU are the main character in this journey. I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate all the roads (and road blocks) to your goals! Therapy can be intimidating, but I promise it is not as bizarre as the movies portray it to be... in fact, I’m just like you, with real feelings and real experiences! So, whether you are a therapy veteran or a newbie, you are a courageous human for taking this step and I am elated that you are here.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Art Therapist, and Qualified Supervisor through the state of Florida.
I know that choosing a therapist can be quite the quest, as there are so many of us out there. With all the fish in the sea, it is important that you find someone that you resonate with. YOU are the main character in this journey. I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate all the roads (and road blocks) to your goals! Therapy can be intimidating, but I promise it is not as bizarre as the movies portray it to be... in fact, I’m just like you, with real feelings and real experiences! So, whether you are a therapy veteran or a newbie, you are a courageous human for taking this step and I am elated that you are here.
(904) 293-1476 View (904) 293-1476
Photo of Elizabeth Messer, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Elizabeth Messer
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
With advanced training in modalities such as Play Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I can effectively guide clients through their healing process.
I am a National Board-Certified Counselor with a comprehensive background in psychology, mental health support, and military leadership. My journey in mental health began with a profound passion for helping others navigate life's challenges in the Army, which led me to pursue a career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My interactive approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and client-centered focus to address various mental health issues. My experience spans individual counseling, group therapy, and specialized support for diverse populations, including veterans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
With advanced training in modalities such as Play Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I can effectively guide clients through their healing process.
I am a National Board-Certified Counselor with a comprehensive background in psychology, mental health support, and military leadership. My journey in mental health began with a profound passion for helping others navigate life's challenges in the Army, which led me to pursue a career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My interactive approach integrates evidence-based practices with a compassionate and client-centered focus to address various mental health issues. My experience spans individual counseling, group therapy, and specialized support for diverse populations, including veterans and LGBTQ+ individuals.
(904) 204-4767 View (904) 204-4767
Photo of Lisa Strahler, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI, NCC
Lisa Strahler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART), certified in Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), and certified as a Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts (SYMBIS) assessment facilitator.
I enjoy helping adolescents and adults navigate a wide array of challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also have a passion for serving first responders, active duty military, and veterans. I understand the intensity and challenges that come with these roles, and I believe that it is important to provide support and guidance to those that dedicate their lives to serving others in this way.
Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART), certified in Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), and certified as a Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts (SYMBIS) assessment facilitator.
I enjoy helping adolescents and adults navigate a wide array of challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also have a passion for serving first responders, active duty military, and veterans. I understand the intensity and challenges that come with these roles, and I believe that it is important to provide support and guidance to those that dedicate their lives to serving others in this way.
(904) 822-8463 View (904) 822-8463
Photo of Devon Schlegel, Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LMHC, RYT
Devon Schlegel
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Art therapy can access our emotions and experiences in ways that may be deeper or more meaningful than words alone.
Indigo Art Therapy Studio is an inclusive and sensory-friendly art therapy studio where creativity is accessible to all and competence is presumed. Learn more on our website or schedule a free consultation today.
Art therapy can access our emotions and experiences in ways that may be deeper or more meaningful than words alone.
Indigo Art Therapy Studio is an inclusive and sensory-friendly art therapy studio where creativity is accessible to all and competence is presumed. Learn more on our website or schedule a free consultation today.
(904) 541-9280 View (904) 541-9280
Photo of Illyanna Soares, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Illyanna Soares
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Engaging in art therapy offers a unique space to visually explore and express your inner world, helping you find peace with your body and within yourself.
In our sessions, we’ll explore your relationship with food, diet culture, and body image, helping you build a healthier, more positive self-view.
Engaging in art therapy offers a unique space to visually explore and express your inner world, helping you find peace with your body and within yourself.
In our sessions, we’ll explore your relationship with food, diet culture, and body image, helping you build a healthier, more positive self-view.
(904) 530-3156 View (904) 530-3156
Photo of Quinn Smalley, Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR, CCATP
Quinn Smalley
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR, CCATP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am trained on exposure and response prevention and cognitive behavioral approaches as well as art therapy.
We all have a story to tell and it is the story we tell ourselves mentally that drives our everyday thoughts, feelings, and actions. With special care for gender, sexuality, and culture, I utilize different theoretical approaches and art therapy to help elicit change and healing. Art therapy involves utilizing the creative process to invite awareness.
I am trained on exposure and response prevention and cognitive behavioral approaches as well as art therapy.
We all have a story to tell and it is the story we tell ourselves mentally that drives our everyday thoughts, feelings, and actions. With special care for gender, sexuality, and culture, I utilize different theoretical approaches and art therapy to help elicit change and healing. Art therapy involves utilizing the creative process to invite awareness.
(727) 855-6688 View (727) 855-6688
Photo of Stephanie Moir, Counselor, LMHC, CRC
Stephanie Moir
Counselor, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
We take the time to build rapport through art, games, or talking.
Are you looking for a therapist who can connect with you and understand your language and way of thinking? Are you a millennial or young adult looking for immediate emotional relief, feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Are you tired of searching the internet and diagnosing yourself? Is your child or teen overly sad, angry, worried or fearful? Is negative thinking impacting their everyday decisions? Does your child or teen have low self-esteem or poor social skills? Are you having a hard time becoming pregnant or are you recovering from a difficult postpartum? Do you need more self-care in your daily routine? Are you not happy at school, college or home? We can help you regain happiness and confidence. All you need is a little hope, validation and some dedication. Our therapy clients love that they can relate to us, that we specialize in what they are feeling and give them easy to use solutions. Most of our clients are in therapy about 3 to 6 months, saving them time and money. What are you waiting for? Give us a call today.
We take the time to build rapport through art, games, or talking.
Are you looking for a therapist who can connect with you and understand your language and way of thinking? Are you a millennial or young adult looking for immediate emotional relief, feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Are you tired of searching the internet and diagnosing yourself? Is your child or teen overly sad, angry, worried or fearful? Is negative thinking impacting their everyday decisions? Does your child or teen have low self-esteem or poor social skills? Are you having a hard time becoming pregnant or are you recovering from a difficult postpartum? Do you need more self-care in your daily routine? Are you not happy at school, college or home? We can help you regain happiness and confidence. All you need is a little hope, validation and some dedication. Our therapy clients love that they can relate to us, that we specialize in what they are feeling and give them easy to use solutions. Most of our clients are in therapy about 3 to 6 months, saving them time and money. What are you waiting for? Give us a call today.
(813) 602-7180 View (813) 602-7180
Photo of Ashley Busch, Counselor, LMHC, ATR, C-DBT, C-PD
Ashley Busch
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, C-DBT, C-PD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer individual therapy, art therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and I treat BPD.
Trauma and mental illness can make us feel like we’re caught in a never-ending cycle; depression, emotional outbursts, impulsivity, fear, hopelessness... These experiences can make us feel completely trapped. Maybe avoidance of these experiences have triggered compulsive actions, risky behaviors, or conflicts that made things even harder for you. Perhaps you’ve had a life transition, trauma, chronic illness, or have unmanageable mood swings, depression, overwhelming anxiety, or BPD and feel helpless, not knowing where to turn. There is effective treatment to help overcome emotional suffering and restore your wellbeing.
I offer individual therapy, art therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and I treat BPD.
Trauma and mental illness can make us feel like we’re caught in a never-ending cycle; depression, emotional outbursts, impulsivity, fear, hopelessness... These experiences can make us feel completely trapped. Maybe avoidance of these experiences have triggered compulsive actions, risky behaviors, or conflicts that made things even harder for you. Perhaps you’ve had a life transition, trauma, chronic illness, or have unmanageable mood swings, depression, overwhelming anxiety, or BPD and feel helpless, not knowing where to turn. There is effective treatment to help overcome emotional suffering and restore your wellbeing.
(941) 239-3890 View (941) 239-3890
Photo of Dayna Wood - Integrative Counsel, Counselor, MEd/EdS, REAT, LMHC
Integrative Counsel
Counselor, MEd/EdS, REAT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Our expansive therapies include EMDR, virtual art therapy, somatic therapy, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in partnership with Journey Clinical.
At Integrative Counsel, we offer an eclectic style of treatment that integrates the mind, body, and transpersonal. Our “special sauce” combines creative, out-of-the-box thinking with solid scientific research so our clients get the best of both worlds. Our team of experienced counselors has specialized knowledge in trauma, anxiety and OCD, complex grief, relationships, men's issues, and other expansive therapies, aiding people in uncovering deep-rooted emotions and beliefs that remain the cause of present-day symptoms so they can experience more persistent breakthroughs.
Our expansive therapies include EMDR, virtual art therapy, somatic therapy, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in partnership with Journey Clinical.
At Integrative Counsel, we offer an eclectic style of treatment that integrates the mind, body, and transpersonal. Our “special sauce” combines creative, out-of-the-box thinking with solid scientific research so our clients get the best of both worlds. Our team of experienced counselors has specialized knowledge in trauma, anxiety and OCD, complex grief, relationships, men's issues, and other expansive therapies, aiding people in uncovering deep-rooted emotions and beliefs that remain the cause of present-day symptoms so they can experience more persistent breakthroughs.
(727) 485-9402 View (727) 485-9402
Photo of Angela Pitts, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Angela Pitts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, & a Professional Art Therapist.
Angela is mental health therapy provider in SC & FL. She aims to offer hope & to help others taste the land of milk & honey. her style of treatment integrates her own authenticity and vulnerability. angela refuses to let clients settle for comfort or anything less than living in freedom. she feels honored to sit and walk alongside others in some of their darkest moments, their quietest spaces. she has a heart for those who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture and their trauma. Above all, she encourages the narrative that you are never too much, and always enough. No one needs to remain stuck in their story.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, & a Professional Art Therapist.
Angela is mental health therapy provider in SC & FL. She aims to offer hope & to help others taste the land of milk & honey. her style of treatment integrates her own authenticity and vulnerability. angela refuses to let clients settle for comfort or anything less than living in freedom. she feels honored to sit and walk alongside others in some of their darkest moments, their quietest spaces. she has a heart for those who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture and their trauma. Above all, she encourages the narrative that you are never too much, and always enough. No one needs to remain stuck in their story.
(803) 692-8263 View (803) 692-8263
Photo of Amanda Nicole Bailey - Willow Tree Therapy Services, LLC, Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Willow Tree Therapy Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Through art and play, we can reclaim our capacity to feel joy, hope, and safety.
I offer individual mental health counseling to children, adolescents, and families. Children can often times be difficult for adults to understand. Even those children who act like "little grownups" need help communicating their needs and feelings in a developmentally appropriate way. At times we have to uncover those challenging feelings that are suppressed, which become the root of problematic symptoms. When facing difficulties, the entire family system can be impacted. I believe people are so resilient and have the inherent capability to work towards healing and growth when provided with a safe and supportive space.
Through art and play, we can reclaim our capacity to feel joy, hope, and safety.
I offer individual mental health counseling to children, adolescents, and families. Children can often times be difficult for adults to understand. Even those children who act like "little grownups" need help communicating their needs and feelings in a developmentally appropriate way. At times we have to uncover those challenging feelings that are suppressed, which become the root of problematic symptoms. When facing difficulties, the entire family system can be impacted. I believe people are so resilient and have the inherent capability to work towards healing and growth when provided with a safe and supportive space.
(904) 685-4379 View (904) 685-4379
Photo of Carlene Holder Taylor - Dr. Carlene Taylor & 'Eli', Counselor, EdD, LMHC, LPC, ESMHL, ERYT
Dr. Carlene Taylor & 'Eli'
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, LPC, ESMHL, ERYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Working from a holistic model of treatment, integrating behavioral healthcare with medical care, art, yoga, animals and the natural world is my specialty.
How we do one thing is how we do all things, so whatever one learns to do differently in the therapeutic environment translates to the world outside of therapy. Process Experiential Therapy is the practice of doing and being rather than just talking about what happened in the past.
Working from a holistic model of treatment, integrating behavioral healthcare with medical care, art, yoga, animals and the natural world is my specialty.
How we do one thing is how we do all things, so whatever one learns to do differently in the therapeutic environment translates to the world outside of therapy. Process Experiential Therapy is the practice of doing and being rather than just talking about what happened in the past.
(904) 530-2022 View (904) 530-2022
Photo of Samantha Maederer, LMHC, ATR
Samantha Maederer
LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, and Qualified Supervisor.
Are you ready to take charge of your life? Ready to get unstuck from unhealthy patterns caused by depression, anxiety, or past trauma? I can help. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I have particular specialization in working with clients who have a history of abuse and complex trauma, and are struggling with navigating boundaries or letting go of relationships. I find it a privilege to support my clients in their darkest times and celebrate them in their successes and would love to speak with you to share how I can help.
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, and Qualified Supervisor.
Are you ready to take charge of your life? Ready to get unstuck from unhealthy patterns caused by depression, anxiety, or past trauma? I can help. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I have particular specialization in working with clients who have a history of abuse and complex trauma, and are struggling with navigating boundaries or letting go of relationships. I find it a privilege to support my clients in their darkest times and celebrate them in their successes and would love to speak with you to share how I can help.
(727) 637-0121 View (727) 637-0121
1

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.