Photo of Katie Kloos, MA, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Kloos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I employ art therapy, mindfulness techniques, play therapy, client centered and strength based approaches when appropriate.
Hello, I'm Katie! I have experience in helping those who struggle with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief, gender dysphoria and many other areas. I hope to create a caring, authentic, encouraging and warm environment for all my clients so they can feel supported, comforted and challenged to grow. I particularly enjoy working with older kids, adolescents and young adults. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Art Therapist (ATR) in Pennsylvania.
I employ art therapy, mindfulness techniques, play therapy, client centered and strength based approaches when appropriate.
Hello, I'm Katie! I have experience in helping those who struggle with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, grief, gender dysphoria and many other areas. I hope to create a caring, authentic, encouraging and warm environment for all my clients so they can feel supported, comforted and challenged to grow. I particularly enjoy working with older kids, adolescents and young adults. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Art Therapist (ATR) in Pennsylvania.
(717) 276-4832 View (717) 276-4832
Photo of Celeste Cantees, LPC, ATR-BC, LCPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celeste Cantees
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
If interested, I use art psychotherapy and expressive modalities that can deepen insight, lessen symptoms and reconnect you to your body's ability to heal.
Hello all! I am a trauma-oriented psychotherapist working with adults, couples and adolescents in Pennsylvania and Maryland. I work inclusively with individuals and couples experiencing relationship difficulties, significant life transitions, those healing from trauma and those seeking insight. I work in an individualized way with each client wherein I strive to build with you a strong, honest working relationship that can facilitate healing and help you rediscover strengths and your own unique talents. I hope to help you gain insight and strengthen your inner ability to heal and experience the life you want to live.
If interested, I use art psychotherapy and expressive modalities that can deepen insight, lessen symptoms and reconnect you to your body's ability to heal.
Hello all! I am a trauma-oriented psychotherapist working with adults, couples and adolescents in Pennsylvania and Maryland. I work inclusively with individuals and couples experiencing relationship difficulties, significant life transitions, those healing from trauma and those seeking insight. I work in an individualized way with each client wherein I strive to build with you a strong, honest working relationship that can facilitate healing and help you rediscover strengths and your own unique talents. I hope to help you gain insight and strengthen your inner ability to heal and experience the life you want to live.
(223) 332-5021 View (223) 332-5021
Photo of Sara Heinzman, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Heinzman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
I utilize the following theories: person centered, systems therapy/ parts work, parenting support, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma focused/ EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
I utilize the following theories: person centered, systems therapy/ parts work, parenting support, art therapy, play therapy, mindfulness techniques, and trauma focused/ EMDR trained.
I believe that everyone has a unique story, deserving an equally unique therapeutic experience that speaks to their story and prompts the change they desire most. I enjoy working with teens, emerging adults, and adults. I work with my clients addressing: ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Chronic Illness, Learning Disabilities, Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive, Parenting, Developing Coping and Social Skills, Pregnancy/Postpartum, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-Harm, Suicidal Thoughts, Self Esteem, Depression, Domestic Violence, Emotional Distress, and Grief and Loss.
(717) 837-5717 View (717) 837-5717
Photo of Megan Boudreau, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Boudreau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I am able to offer a variety of skills including play and art therapy for all age clients.
It's hard work to look inward at ourselves. I would like to come along side of you to find ways to experience healing from your hurt. As a therapist I hope to build you up when you've been knocked down and get you to a place where you can find peace and confidence in your self again.
I am able to offer a variety of skills including play and art therapy for all age clients.
It's hard work to look inward at ourselves. I would like to come along side of you to find ways to experience healing from your hurt. As a therapist I hope to build you up when you've been knocked down and get you to a place where you can find peace and confidence in your self again.
(717) 455-3044 View (717) 455-3044
Photo of undefined - Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breathe Christian Art Therapy & Therapeutic Svcs.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
My goal is to help you express “that feeling” through emphasis on Expressive Art therapy (painting, drawing, music, movement and play) in addition to traditional therapy.
You know you need help, but don’t know who to talk to or if talking will even change anything. You’ve experienced a trauma and you are tired of talking about it, but you don’t want to feel “that feeling" anymore. You know that something is wrong, but you can’t seem to put words to it. Or maybe you have been to therapy before and just talking about it didn’t seem to help. Perhaps your child is not behaving in school like he or she used to, they’re no longer talking, grades are falling and their getting into fights. Maybe your family just doesn’t get it, if you could just do or be what they want things will be ok, but there not.
(717) 883-6187 View (717) 883-6187
Photo of Kathleen Marie Epler, LSW, CMIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Marie Epler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Nothing is Impossible! The word itself says "I'm possible"- Audrey Hepburn Whether I am running a group, meeting one on one, teaching a yoga class, or engaging in a community event the goal is always the same. It is my desire to hold space for you, meeting you where you are at with a sense of compassion and humility. People choose to work with me toward healing of the whole self. Support may be offered for depression, anxiety, trauma associated with surgery, living with an addict or an alcoholic, moving through life transitions. I do this through conversation, breath-work, art, music, movement, & spiritual exploration.
Nothing is Impossible! The word itself says "I'm possible"- Audrey Hepburn Whether I am running a group, meeting one on one, teaching a yoga class, or engaging in a community event the goal is always the same. It is my desire to hold space for you, meeting you where you are at with a sense of compassion and humility. People choose to work with me toward healing of the whole self. Support may be offered for depression, anxiety, trauma associated with surgery, living with an addict or an alcoholic, moving through life transitions. I do this through conversation, breath-work, art, music, movement, & spiritual exploration.
(610) 510-4546 View (610) 510-4546
Photo of undefined - The Family Wellness Center, MA, MATS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah specializes in Eating Disorders, Weight management, Trauma & PTSD, Mood Disorders, Behavioral Addictions, Codependency, Grief Counseling, Expressive Art Therapies, Nutrition Psychology and Marital & Family Therapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 View (717) 229-0492
Photo of Julie Simmons, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Waitlist for new clients
Are you / your child having trouble with intense emotions? Are you a teen or young adult struggling with life adjustments and feel like you are trying to find your place within what seems like a chaotic world? Do you or your child have difficulty with anxiety or depression, often caused by school stress or changing family dynamics? Are you a parent that struggles with knowing how to help your child? I can offer support and guidance. I believe a therapeutic relationship and trust is key in counseling, and my goal is to empower and support you to understand that change and growth is possible.
Are you / your child having trouble with intense emotions? Are you a teen or young adult struggling with life adjustments and feel like you are trying to find your place within what seems like a chaotic world? Do you or your child have difficulty with anxiety or depression, often caused by school stress or changing family dynamics? Are you a parent that struggles with knowing how to help your child? I can offer support and guidance. I believe a therapeutic relationship and trust is key in counseling, and my goal is to empower and support you to understand that change and growth is possible.
(717) 864-0769 View (717) 864-0769
Photo of Emily J Alvarez, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily J Alvarez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
Your true healing, growth, authentic self, and full potential lie beyond four walls of a clinician's office. It takes courage to start the therapeutic process. If you are looking for a holistic, creative way to improve your mental health, I can support and guide you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or you've had many years of experience, if you're ready for real personal change, a new approach, and want to delve deeply into the therapeutic process, I'm here to guide you.
(717) 696-0146 View (717) 696-0146
Photo of Diane E Schulz, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diane E Schulz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
I recognize the importance of creating safe spaces and do so with an energy of warmth, validation and humor. I support clients from a healing-centered approach to identify goals, manage stress and process traumatic experiences through enhancing communication, somatic (body-focused) techniques, mindfulness and other creative practices for self-reflection and self-regulation. I recognize that processing grief or pain are important aspects of growth and that we can be more responsive and vulnerable without collapsing. As a collaborator on your healing journey, I approach our work together with genuine curiosity and open-mindedness.
I recognize the importance of creating safe spaces and do so with an energy of warmth, validation and humor. I support clients from a healing-centered approach to identify goals, manage stress and process traumatic experiences through enhancing communication, somatic (body-focused) techniques, mindfulness and other creative practices for self-reflection and self-regulation. I recognize that processing grief or pain are important aspects of growth and that we can be more responsive and vulnerable without collapsing. As a collaborator on your healing journey, I approach our work together with genuine curiosity and open-mindedness.
(223) 267-6040 View (223) 267-6040
Photo of undefined - Ebb & Flow Counseling + Coaching, PLLC, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Ebb & Flow Counseling + Coaching, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Ebb & Flow Counseling + Coaching would be honored to work with you on your emotional well-being goals. We specialize in work/life balance, burnout, infertility, third party reproduction, women's health, relationships, anxiety, and stress management. We especially enjoy working with high achieving women who strive to "do it all well." Our focus together will be to help you navigate the ebbs and flows of life more effectively.
Ebb & Flow Counseling + Coaching would be honored to work with you on your emotional well-being goals. We specialize in work/life balance, burnout, infertility, third party reproduction, women's health, relationships, anxiety, and stress management. We especially enjoy working with high achieving women who strive to "do it all well." Our focus together will be to help you navigate the ebbs and flows of life more effectively.
(717) 388-3923 View (717) 388-3923
Photo of Carrie Nicklas, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Nicklas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I have a heart to serve individuals going through difficult times in their lives. I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment disorders. Individuals and families find encouragement and support while facing grief and loss, separation and divorce, abuse, and other stressful or traumatic events. They find healing from past pain and hope for a better future through the therapeutic process.
I have a heart to serve individuals going through difficult times in their lives. I work with clients facing depression, anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment disorders. Individuals and families find encouragement and support while facing grief and loss, separation and divorce, abuse, and other stressful or traumatic events. They find healing from past pain and hope for a better future through the therapeutic process.
(717) 488-2266 View (717) 488-2266
Photo of undefined - Matters of the Heart Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matters of the Heart Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
(717) 271-7866 View (717) 271-7866
Photo of Jenny Greenbaum, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Greenbaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I primarily support women's wellness, parental growth, and family adjustment. I have been a therapist in the Philadelphia region for over 12 years and have worked in social work settings, community mental health and private settings. I'm an active community member and mother of three and am open, welcoming, and passionate about helping anyone and everyone reach their full potential. I am a therapist who genuinely enjoys working with my clients!
I primarily support women's wellness, parental growth, and family adjustment. I have been a therapist in the Philadelphia region for over 12 years and have worked in social work settings, community mental health and private settings. I'm an active community member and mother of three and am open, welcoming, and passionate about helping anyone and everyone reach their full potential. I am a therapist who genuinely enjoys working with my clients!
(484) 939-9628 View (484) 939-9628
Photo of Elizabeth Lynne Ohara, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Lynne Ohara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you believe that events from your past get in the way of experiencing joy in the present? Do you wish to have healthier and more satisfying relationships? Do you struggle with ways of thinking that you have a hard time changing? I believe I can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 27 years of experience and have helped many people find increased life satisfaction by challenging old beliefs and finding new ways of thinking about themselves.
Do you believe that events from your past get in the way of experiencing joy in the present? Do you wish to have healthier and more satisfying relationships? Do you struggle with ways of thinking that you have a hard time changing? I believe I can help. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 27 years of experience and have helped many people find increased life satisfaction by challenging old beliefs and finding new ways of thinking about themselves.
(443) 977-6857 View (443) 977-6857
Photo of Kara Allnutt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Allnutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
Not accepting new clients
Hello! My name is Kara Allnutt, I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds and I am most passionate about helping families, teenagers, young adults and children. I have found that I am able to get through to many teens and adolescents who have previously not been very engaged in therapy, and I have experience in helping individuals work through family relational problems, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, trauma, sexual abuse, and Mood Disorders. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and I have an ADHD specialist certification (ADHD-CCSP).
Hello! My name is Kara Allnutt, I have experience working with all ages and backgrounds and I am most passionate about helping families, teenagers, young adults and children. I have found that I am able to get through to many teens and adolescents who have previously not been very engaged in therapy, and I have experience in helping individuals work through family relational problems, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, trauma, sexual abuse, and Mood Disorders. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and I have an ADHD specialist certification (ADHD-CCSP).
(717) 483-7958 View (717) 483-7958

Online Therapists

Photo of Emma Sawyer, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emma Sawyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
I am a licensed professional counselor and board certified art therapist offering both talk therapy and art therapy to my clients.
Communicating our needs and seeking support can seem overwhelming with so much on our plates and busy schedules to maintain. Whether you are battling ongoing anxiety that you just can't seem to shake, or pushing down your sadness to support family, I would love to help you find creative ways to manage stress, build healthier coping skills, and process emotional needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and issues related to self-esteem. I thrive with clients who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and want a safe place to reflect and grow as an individual.
I am a licensed professional counselor and board certified art therapist offering both talk therapy and art therapy to my clients.
Communicating our needs and seeking support can seem overwhelming with so much on our plates and busy schedules to maintain. Whether you are battling ongoing anxiety that you just can't seem to shake, or pushing down your sadness to support family, I would love to help you find creative ways to manage stress, build healthier coping skills, and process emotional needs. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, and issues related to self-esteem. I thrive with clients who are looking to build a deeper understanding of themselves and want a safe place to reflect and grow as an individual.
(484) 804-4616 View (484) 804-4616
Photo of Cheryl Stroup, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Stroup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hanover, PA 17331
I also use art therapy, sand tray, as well as motivational strategies with CBT and DBT.
I work with clients of all ages. I currently have clients that are as young as 4 years of age and up into their 60's. Each client is unique and comes to therapy with their own story and history. I enjoy working with each client and their uniqueness and assisting them on attaining their personal goals and immediate objectives. I have an extensive knowledge base with specifically children and have dedicated the last 10+ years working with them on various struggles such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues to family, peer, and school conflicts. I have worked with schools, case workers, as well as IEPs.
I also use art therapy, sand tray, as well as motivational strategies with CBT and DBT.
I work with clients of all ages. I currently have clients that are as young as 4 years of age and up into their 60's. Each client is unique and comes to therapy with their own story and history. I enjoy working with each client and their uniqueness and assisting them on attaining their personal goals and immediate objectives. I have an extensive knowledge base with specifically children and have dedicated the last 10+ years working with them on various struggles such as autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues to family, peer, and school conflicts. I have worked with schools, case workers, as well as IEPs.
(717) 864-0639 View (717) 864-0639
Photo of Carissa Young, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnutport, PA 18088  (Online Only)
My counseling approach utilizes multiple modes of therapy such as: CBT, strength-based, mindfulness, person-centered, play therapy, and art therapy.
Sometimes we may feel like we don't have any control over the things in our lives. Right now by reaching out for help, you are taking some control back. Throughout our lives we all experience difficult times and need some support. I can provide a safe, healing space to work on managing the stressors in your life. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I also work as a School Counselor and volunteer as a crisis hotline counselor. Previously, I worked as a teacher for over 17 years across different grades. I love working with children of all ages and empowering women!
My counseling approach utilizes multiple modes of therapy such as: CBT, strength-based, mindfulness, person-centered, play therapy, and art therapy.
Sometimes we may feel like we don't have any control over the things in our lives. Right now by reaching out for help, you are taking some control back. Throughout our lives we all experience difficult times and need some support. I can provide a safe, healing space to work on managing the stressors in your life. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I also work as a School Counselor and volunteer as a crisis hotline counselor. Previously, I worked as a teacher for over 17 years across different grades. I love working with children of all ages and empowering women!
(484) 214-2867 View (484) 214-2867
Photo of undefined - Maureen Foy-Tornay, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen Foy-Tornay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist my passion is to help you feel better and get back on track to healthier relationships, improved mental wellness and confidence.
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Today is where the good things can begin. We can work on hope and the time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with adults, college age students and older teens. I also offer IMAGO based Couples counseling that provides a structured and dynamic way to increase healthy communication. Sessions might address struggles with traumatic events, stress, coping with adjustment to new challenges, resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I am here for you and ready to help.
As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist my passion is to help you feel better and get back on track to healthier relationships, improved mental wellness and confidence.
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Today is where the good things can begin. We can work on hope and the time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with adults, college age students and older teens. I also offer IMAGO based Couples counseling that provides a structured and dynamic way to increase healthy communication. Sessions might address struggles with traumatic events, stress, coping with adjustment to new challenges, resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I am here for you and ready to help.
(267) 633-8878 View (267) 633-8878
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.