Art Therapy in Orange County, NC

Photo of Jailene Nieves-Mercado, Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, REAT
Jailene Nieves-Mercado
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, REAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As an art therapist, I use the creative process to support clients in connecting with themselves and build self-confidence and compassion.
I primarily work from an empowerment-based perspective that honors our continual growth and resiliency. I have an open, eclectic, and humor-filled therapeutic style that is inspired by expressive arts, strengths-based, person-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches. I provide individual therapy and immigration evaluations in English and Spanish.
As an art therapist, I use the creative process to support clients in connecting with themselves and build self-confidence and compassion.
I primarily work from an empowerment-based perspective that honors our continual growth and resiliency. I have an open, eclectic, and humor-filled therapeutic style that is inspired by expressive arts, strengths-based, person-centered, and culturally sensitive approaches. I provide individual therapy and immigration evaluations in English and Spanish.
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Photo of David C Reid - Present Therapy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NC, LCMHCA, 19045
Present Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NC, LCMHCA, 19045
Carrboro, NC 27510
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
(919) 893-0195 View (919) 893-0195
Photo of Jen Kirkpatrick, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ATR
Jen Kirkpatrick
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ATR
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a Registered Art Therapist, and specialize in CBT, DBT and EMDR methods.
The struggle in life can get real, sometimes more often than we like. Maybe you are struggling with feeling stressed, isolated, hopeless, anxious, lost or unmotivated. Or could it be that you ready to process and identify your authentic self? Have alcohol and/or drugs become more of a problem than a solution? Possibly you are the primary caregiver for a loved one, and the stress has flooded you into an emotional state of numbness and resentment. Whatever is bringing you to therapy is valid and real. Wellness is as unique as each individual.
I am a Registered Art Therapist, and specialize in CBT, DBT and EMDR methods.
The struggle in life can get real, sometimes more often than we like. Maybe you are struggling with feeling stressed, isolated, hopeless, anxious, lost or unmotivated. Or could it be that you ready to process and identify your authentic self? Have alcohol and/or drugs become more of a problem than a solution? Possibly you are the primary caregiver for a loved one, and the stress has flooded you into an emotional state of numbness and resentment. Whatever is bringing you to therapy is valid and real. Wellness is as unique as each individual.
(919) 237-9587 View (919) 237-9587
Photo of Bridget Pemberton-Smith, Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS
Bridget Pemberton-Smith
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS
2 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration.
While my approach is eclectic and varies based on the client I am working with, I am largely person-centered, helping each client to find their own path and setting goals appropriate for their journey. I find that the arts help to facilitate moments of insight in a way that is often more powerful than traditional talk therapy.
I have worked with a variety of people including children with physical illness, at-risk adolescents, adults with mental illness, seniors both with and without dementia, refugees and immigrants and as a supervisor for art therapists seeking art therapy registration.
While my approach is eclectic and varies based on the client I am working with, I am largely person-centered, helping each client to find their own path and setting goals appropriate for their journey. I find that the arts help to facilitate moments of insight in a way that is often more powerful than traditional talk therapy.
(919) 925-4191 View (919) 925-4191
Photo of Ian Collins - NC Therapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
NC Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Online Only
Welcome to NC Therapy & Mental Health Counseling. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can explore and address their mental health needs. Our clinic is a beacon of hope and healing for those seeking to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties.
Welcome to NC Therapy & Mental Health Counseling. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can explore and address their mental health needs. Our clinic is a beacon of hope and healing for those seeking to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties.
(984) 358-2230 View (984) 358-2230
Photo of Natalia Torres del Valle, Counselor, MA, REAT, LCMHC
Natalia Torres del Valle
Counselor, MA, REAT, LCMHC
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Waitlist for new clients
Through various art forms, we delve into the depths of their experiences, unraveling emotions that may have been held tightly within.
While I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and individuals struggling with eating disorders, separation/divorce, life transitions, anxiety, and depression, my doors are open to all who seek support and growth. You don't need to have any prior art experience to benefit from expressive arts therapy.
Through various art forms, we delve into the depths of their experiences, unraveling emotions that may have been held tightly within.
While I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and individuals struggling with eating disorders, separation/divorce, life transitions, anxiety, and depression, my doors are open to all who seek support and growth. You don't need to have any prior art experience to benefit from expressive arts therapy.
(919) 926-0312 View (919) 926-0312
Photo of Kristie Papuchis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristie Papuchis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a passion for helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve their fullest potential in life. My upbeat, empathetic, and compassionate personality helps me to connect with individuals and build strong therapeutic relationships. My clients are everyday people that need help with life’s challenges.
I have a passion for helping children, adolescents, and adults achieve their fullest potential in life. My upbeat, empathetic, and compassionate personality helps me to connect with individuals and build strong therapeutic relationships. My clients are everyday people that need help with life’s challenges.
(954) 932-8703 View (954) 932-8703
Photo of Cassandra Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ATRP, RYT-200
Cassandra Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, ATRP, RYT-200
Online Only
Although art isn't a requirement in our sessions, as an art therapist I believe the creative process is a helpful integrative tool to support others with challenging perfectionism, self-judgment, and has the ability to increase self-awareness, self-expression, and mindfulness (to name a few
Self-compassion can be tough and many of us are living our lives feeling disconnected from our bodies. More times than not, we have no idea how we got here. There are many forces at play and it's helpful to understand societal expectations and pressures to better understand ourselves. This is a second career for me and throughout my years as a therapist, I’ve observed how my previous experiences contribute to how I connect with people. Gradually, together, we can work to identify barriers, name emotions, tolerate distress, and move toward the life you want to be living.
Although art isn't a requirement in our sessions, as an art therapist I believe the creative process is a helpful integrative tool to support others with challenging perfectionism, self-judgment, and has the ability to increase self-awareness, self-expression, and mindfulness (to name a few
Self-compassion can be tough and many of us are living our lives feeling disconnected from our bodies. More times than not, we have no idea how we got here. There are many forces at play and it's helpful to understand societal expectations and pressures to better understand ourselves. This is a second career for me and throughout my years as a therapist, I’ve observed how my previous experiences contribute to how I connect with people. Gradually, together, we can work to identify barriers, name emotions, tolerate distress, and move toward the life you want to be living.
(336) 594-2337 View (336) 594-2337
Photo of Stefanie Kotzen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Stefanie Kotzen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Accepting new clients (6/18/2025). I am an energetic and motivated therapist ready to help you collaboratively create a clear plan toward fulfillment in all areas of life. My style is warm and supportive, direct and collaborative. It’s my purpose to guide a client through the eye-opening journey of self-discovery. 15+ years of experience has led to a practice that is strengths-based and solution-focused. I believe in meeting everyone where they are at, right now in life: to build existing strengths and develop connections between thoughts and behaviors.
Accepting new clients (6/18/2025). I am an energetic and motivated therapist ready to help you collaboratively create a clear plan toward fulfillment in all areas of life. My style is warm and supportive, direct and collaborative. It’s my purpose to guide a client through the eye-opening journey of self-discovery. 15+ years of experience has led to a practice that is strengths-based and solution-focused. I believe in meeting everyone where they are at, right now in life: to build existing strengths and develop connections between thoughts and behaviors.
(919) 736-6195 View (919) 736-6195
Photo of Jessica Starr, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, SEP
Jessica Starr
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, SEP
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Times of chaos, confusion, and challenge are opportunities for a shift in perspective and meaningful, long-lasting change. We don't often have a choice about challenging circumstances but we do get to choose how we respond and whether or not we grow stronger from the experience! Using a blend of traditional "talk therapy" and alternative therapies (such as mindfulness, somatic awareness, and creative expression) we collaborate for my clients' restoration of their natural wellness in mind, body, and spirit. I can help you become your best self!
Times of chaos, confusion, and challenge are opportunities for a shift in perspective and meaningful, long-lasting change. We don't often have a choice about challenging circumstances but we do get to choose how we respond and whether or not we grow stronger from the experience! Using a blend of traditional "talk therapy" and alternative therapies (such as mindfulness, somatic awareness, and creative expression) we collaborate for my clients' restoration of their natural wellness in mind, body, and spirit. I can help you become your best self!
(614) 907-8151 View (614) 907-8151
Photo of Erica Gwen Dossa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erica Gwen Dossa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
For children, I utilize play and art therapy.
I help people of all ages uncover and address the root cause of their struggles in order to feel better and make wanted change in their lives. Together, we explore symptoms within the broader context of their lives, making sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By understanding how and why symptoms developed, clients identify barriers to change and open up new possibilities for growth.
For children, I utilize play and art therapy.
I help people of all ages uncover and address the root cause of their struggles in order to feel better and make wanted change in their lives. Together, we explore symptoms within the broader context of their lives, making sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By understanding how and why symptoms developed, clients identify barriers to change and open up new possibilities for growth.
(984) 336-2662 View (984) 336-2662
Photo of Mary Catherine Youngpenn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mary Catherine Youngpenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Carrboro, NC 27510
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality concerns, interpersonal conflict, trauma, addiction, self esteem and eating disorders. I am especially committed to working with teens and adults who identify as LGBTQIA+. If you are looking to be more of an active participant in your life, gain insight and work toward a greater sense of self, I would love to meet you. I believe deeply in your innate ability and inner resources as the source material for our work together.
I'm passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults and couples who are struggling with anxiety, depression, gender and sexuality concerns, interpersonal conflict, trauma, addiction, self esteem and eating disorders. I am especially committed to working with teens and adults who identify as LGBTQIA+. If you are looking to be more of an active participant in your life, gain insight and work toward a greater sense of self, I would love to meet you. I believe deeply in your innate ability and inner resources as the source material for our work together.
(984) 400-5692 View (984) 400-5692
Photo of Shea McGinnis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Shea McGinnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you consumed by worry and overwhelm? So much so that it is easier to just stay home. Feeling totally isolated and alone in your stress and unmotivated to do anything today? Wondering what happened to the person you used to know and want to rediscover yourself? Or, you may be experiencing immense shame and guilt nearly every day. Are you finding your relationships challenging to navigate? Not knowing how to say what you need and want to say? Or, you may be struggling to break addictive patterns and feeling desperate for change.
Are you consumed by worry and overwhelm? So much so that it is easier to just stay home. Feeling totally isolated and alone in your stress and unmotivated to do anything today? Wondering what happened to the person you used to know and want to rediscover yourself? Or, you may be experiencing immense shame and guilt nearly every day. Are you finding your relationships challenging to navigate? Not knowing how to say what you need and want to say? Or, you may be struggling to break addictive patterns and feeling desperate for change.
(828) 373-3186 View (828) 373-3186
Photo of Tina Siragusa, Marriage & Family Therapist, NC-LMFT, CT-LMFT, NC-LCAS
Tina Siragusa
Marriage & Family Therapist, NC-LMFT, CT-LMFT, NC-LCAS
Online Only
NC & CT I have had the honor of working with individuals & families from pre-adolescents to adults for 39 yrs as a therapist. It is a big step to find a therapist that is a good fit, and my intention is to have a comfortable compassionate space and a relationship for clients to meet their goals of dealing with life's transitions, feelings that constrain one's life, managing emotions, or improving relationships with fundamental building blocks all the way up to mastery of the tools and skills you will explore and practice from our work together as we cultivate psychological flexibility to find ease through the ebbs and flows of life.
NC & CT I have had the honor of working with individuals & families from pre-adolescents to adults for 39 yrs as a therapist. It is a big step to find a therapist that is a good fit, and my intention is to have a comfortable compassionate space and a relationship for clients to meet their goals of dealing with life's transitions, feelings that constrain one's life, managing emotions, or improving relationships with fundamental building blocks all the way up to mastery of the tools and skills you will explore and practice from our work together as we cultivate psychological flexibility to find ease through the ebbs and flows of life.
(984) 207-1661 View (984) 207-1661
Photo of Shannon Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shannon Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
All of us confront situations in life that can be overwhelming. Counseling can help us to find solutions as well as ways to cope and succeed. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults facing a variety of issues.
All of us confront situations in life that can be overwhelming. Counseling can help us to find solutions as well as ways to cope and succeed. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults facing a variety of issues.
(984) 228-2671 View (984) 228-2671
Photo of David Shanks - Providence Family Therapy - David Shanks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Providence Family Therapy - David Shanks, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Successful children are happy, socially competent and secure in developing age appropriate skills. They get along with their family, friends, and at school. What all parents want is to successfully launch their children as independent adults. This can be a daunting task in today's world. The time to identify and solve problems in this process is as early as possible. I offer both short-term and long-term interventions for children and the adults in their lives. I also work with adults to help you identify and change stuck patterns of thought and feeling to move ahead in life.
Successful children are happy, socially competent and secure in developing age appropriate skills. They get along with their family, friends, and at school. What all parents want is to successfully launch their children as independent adults. This can be a daunting task in today's world. The time to identify and solve problems in this process is as early as possible. I offer both short-term and long-term interventions for children and the adults in their lives. I also work with adults to help you identify and change stuck patterns of thought and feeling to move ahead in life.
(919) 585-1087 View (919) 585-1087
Photo of Marilyn L Grubbs, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Marilyn L Grubbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I believe that each of us has a deep supply of wisdom that we can use to heal our pain and solve our problems. I will work with you to tap into that wisdom, using the approach that is most comfortable and effective for you, always respecting and being open to learning about your cultural traditions. I specialize in healing of grief, trauma, or loss; relationship and communication skills for individuals and couples; personal growth and empowerment; and the integration of mind, body, and spirit, including alternatives to pharmaceutical treatment for psychological symptoms.
I believe that each of us has a deep supply of wisdom that we can use to heal our pain and solve our problems. I will work with you to tap into that wisdom, using the approach that is most comfortable and effective for you, always respecting and being open to learning about your cultural traditions. I specialize in healing of grief, trauma, or loss; relationship and communication skills for individuals and couples; personal growth and empowerment; and the integration of mind, body, and spirit, including alternatives to pharmaceutical treatment for psychological symptoms.
(919) 885-0121 View (919) 885-0121
Photo of Ashley Parlier, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashley Parlier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is a Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) and also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I graduated with honors from Emory & Henry College with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and contextual support in Biology and Chemistry. I attended graduate school at August State University, now known as Georgia Regent University, and graduated with a Master of Science with honors in Clinical Psychology/Counseling. I has been working in the mental health field since 2008 and have taken on many roles, which include Therapeutic Mentor.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is a Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) and also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I graduated with honors from Emory & Henry College with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and contextual support in Biology and Chemistry. I attended graduate school at August State University, now known as Georgia Regent University, and graduated with a Master of Science with honors in Clinical Psychology/Counseling. I has been working in the mental health field since 2008 and have taken on many roles, which include Therapeutic Mentor.
(757) 210-9465 View (757) 210-9465
Photo of Uli Schempp - Chapel Hill Art Therapy-Uli Schempp, Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCMHC, LCAT
Chapel Hill Art Therapy-Uli Schempp
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCMHC, LCAT
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Art therapy offers a unique path to access and express dreamlike or diffuse mental images representing emotional memories that often are non-linear and therefore difficult to express verbally.
The goal of art therapy is to resolve any problems that impede a client's sense of well-being and connect clients to their innate creativity which will help them face the challenges of daily life and live up to their potential.
Art therapy offers a unique path to access and express dreamlike or diffuse mental images representing emotional memories that often are non-linear and therefore difficult to express verbally.
The goal of art therapy is to resolve any problems that impede a client's sense of well-being and connect clients to their innate creativity which will help them face the challenges of daily life and live up to their potential.
(646) 762-0318 View (646) 762-0318
Photo of Cindy Perez, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Cindy Perez
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
4 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking flexible, out-of-the-box support? I provide care for children, teens and adults, with a passion for working with non-traditional and marginalized families. My approach is culturally responsive, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and creative; treating you as the expert of your own experience, and walking alongside you on your healing journey. I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, OCD, and self-harm, as well as trauma related to intimate partner violence, immigration, religious experiences, racial and ethnic identity, and intergenerational dynamics.
Are you seeking flexible, out-of-the-box support? I provide care for children, teens and adults, with a passion for working with non-traditional and marginalized families. My approach is culturally responsive, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and creative; treating you as the expert of your own experience, and walking alongside you on your healing journey. I have extensive experience supporting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, OCD, and self-harm, as well as trauma related to intimate partner violence, immigration, religious experiences, racial and ethnic identity, and intergenerational dynamics.
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Art Therapy Therapists
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.