Art Therapy in Pittsburgh, PA

Art Therapy is for everyone!.
As your Psychotherapist I am here to assist with making sense of artistic images and finding ways to manage feelings and issues. I invite a a spirit of fierce self-acceptance and self-compassion; to help change the negative, anxious, narrative to one of gentleness, forgiving, and yes, even loving.
Art Therapy is for everyone!.
As your Psychotherapist I am here to assist with making sense of artistic images and finding ways to manage feelings and issues. I invite a a spirit of fierce self-acceptance and self-compassion; to help change the negative, anxious, narrative to one of gentleness, forgiving, and yes, even loving.

Open Gate Therapeutics - Jennifer Bertocchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15210
I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that honors the mind, body, and spirit, and often incorporate art, music, movement, and other creative pathways for us to problem-solve together.
Welcome! I’m a licensed clinical social worker and therapist dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is rooted in person-centered principles, recognizing the unique value and worth of each person. I utilize evidence-based techniques from Gestalt therapy, trauma-focused therapy frameworks, mindfulness and self-compassion (MSC), and CBT/DBT to support adults in fostering awareness, self-regulation, and exploring their experiences/emotions without judgment or shame. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for clients.
I utilize a holistic approach to mental health that honors the mind, body, and spirit, and often incorporate art, music, movement, and other creative pathways for us to problem-solve together.
Welcome! I’m a licensed clinical social worker and therapist dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is rooted in person-centered principles, recognizing the unique value and worth of each person. I utilize evidence-based techniques from Gestalt therapy, trauma-focused therapy frameworks, mindfulness and self-compassion (MSC), and CBT/DBT to support adults in fostering awareness, self-regulation, and exploring their experiences/emotions without judgment or shame. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for clients.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships.
I have specialized training in Gestalt therapy, Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Training in work with children, teens and adults.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships.
I have specialized training in Gestalt therapy, Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Training in work with children, teens and adults.

I also believe that art therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening the therapy experience to visually process feelings that may not be easy to put into words.
I am passionate about helping individuals identify and overcome recurring patterns that may have developed early in life as a mechanism of coping, but are now creating issues in everyday life. I operate from a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgmental place to meet you where you are and help identify any barriers that are preventing you from reaching your full potential and living as your most authentic self. I work primarily with adolescents and adults.
I also believe that art therapy can be a powerful tool in deepening the therapy experience to visually process feelings that may not be easy to put into words.
I am passionate about helping individuals identify and overcome recurring patterns that may have developed early in life as a mechanism of coping, but are now creating issues in everyday life. I operate from a compassionate, collaborative and non-judgmental place to meet you where you are and help identify any barriers that are preventing you from reaching your full potential and living as your most authentic self. I work primarily with adolescents and adults.

Jen Ackerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I blend person-centered and Gestalt therapy with expressive art-based techniques (don’t worry, no art skills required).
You’re doing everything you’re supposed to. So why do you still feel stuck?
Maybe you’ve got the job, the degree, the relationship, the outward “success” but inside, there’s a heaviness. A sense that something’s missing. You keep showing up, holding it together, and being the strong one, but deep down, you’re exhausted. You’re craving real connection and a space where you don’t have to have all the answers.
I work with adults, especially high-achieving women and creatives who feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in old patterns. I offer a space where we slow down and start untangling the stuff that's holding you back.
I blend person-centered and Gestalt therapy with expressive art-based techniques (don’t worry, no art skills required).
You’re doing everything you’re supposed to. So why do you still feel stuck?
Maybe you’ve got the job, the degree, the relationship, the outward “success” but inside, there’s a heaviness. A sense that something’s missing. You keep showing up, holding it together, and being the strong one, but deep down, you’re exhausted. You’re craving real connection and a space where you don’t have to have all the answers.
I work with adults, especially high-achieving women and creatives who feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in old patterns. I offer a space where we slow down and start untangling the stuff that's holding you back.

Our decolonized, strength-based therapies, integrate positive psychology, art therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality to foster authentic healing, resilience, and self-discovery.
Imagine carrying an invisible weight—the weight of feeling unseen, unheard, misunderstood. Perhaps you’re navigating systemic barriers, microaggressions, or struggling to feel fully accepted for who you are. Maybe you feel out of sync in a world that wasn’t built for you, constantly compartmentalizing parts of yourself to fit in. On the outside, you may seem “fine,” but inside, you’re yearning for wholeness, clarity, and the freedom to simply be.
Our decolonized, strength-based therapies, integrate positive psychology, art therapy, mindfulness, and spirituality to foster authentic healing, resilience, and self-discovery.
Imagine carrying an invisible weight—the weight of feeling unseen, unheard, misunderstood. Perhaps you’re navigating systemic barriers, microaggressions, or struggling to feel fully accepted for who you are. Maybe you feel out of sync in a world that wasn’t built for you, constantly compartmentalizing parts of yourself to fit in. On the outside, you may seem “fine,” but inside, you’re yearning for wholeness, clarity, and the freedom to simply be.

Lauren Lazar Stern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR.
I have written an eating disorder workbook, The Slender Trap, available on amazon.com that helps individuals identify whether they have an eating disorder and what to do about it. This is representative of some of the ways that I use art therapy and journaling in my work to help individuals heal.
My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR.
I have written an eating disorder workbook, The Slender Trap, available on amazon.com that helps individuals identify whether they have an eating disorder and what to do about it. This is representative of some of the ways that I use art therapy and journaling in my work to help individuals heal.

Rachel Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via email only I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC).
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive-Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Art Therapy. I will use a mind-body approach specific to your needs. We can simply talk or you can engage in a more creative approach by using art materials, no experience necessary!
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via email only I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC).
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive-Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral therapy (DBT), and Art Therapy. I will use a mind-body approach specific to your needs. We can simply talk or you can engage in a more creative approach by using art materials, no experience necessary!

Theo Forrester
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
As an Art Therapist, I work to integrate art making with talk therapy because I believe art can speak where words often fail.
Let’s be real: being a person is hard. That’s an easy enough fact to acknowledge, but the truly difficult part is deciding when and where to put your vulnerabilities on display. While committing to the therapeutic process can feel unpredictable and is not without its messy bits, taking a step towards prioritizing yourself and your wellbeing is an act of incredible courage.
As an Art Therapist, I work to integrate art making with talk therapy because I believe art can speak where words often fail.
Let’s be real: being a person is hard. That’s an easy enough fact to acknowledge, but the truly difficult part is deciding when and where to put your vulnerabilities on display. While committing to the therapeutic process can feel unpredictable and is not without its messy bits, taking a step towards prioritizing yourself and your wellbeing is an act of incredible courage.

Kate Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use art making and creativity specified to meet your individual needs to help guide you and your family towards healing and wellness.
I have experience working with children with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, behavioral issues and complex & chronic medical issues. Additionally, I also specialize in anxiety and depression and have experience working with adolescents and adults. I have experience working in community mental health, residential settings, educational services, and medical centers & hospitals.
As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use art making and creativity specified to meet your individual needs to help guide you and your family towards healing and wellness.
I have experience working with children with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, behavioral issues and complex & chronic medical issues. Additionally, I also specialize in anxiety and depression and have experience working with adolescents and adults. I have experience working in community mental health, residential settings, educational services, and medical centers & hospitals.

When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as EMDR and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
When working with children, adolescents, and families, Yisroel utilizes psychodynamic, CBT, play, and art therapy techniques, as well as EMDR and family systems strategies to support clients in actualizing their goals in treatment.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
Meet Our Art Therapy

Julia K Toal
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
My clients use the art making process to explore and process difficult feelings, thoughts, and emotions.
Are you:
- An anxious Millennial or Gen-Z?
- A daughter of emotionally immature parents?
- A people pleaser?
- Not sure who you really are or what you want out of life?
- Struggling with a past trauma?
- Interested in taking a creative approach to healing?
If you've answered yes to one or more of these - I'm here to help!
My clients use the art making process to explore and process difficult feelings, thoughts, and emotions.
Are you:
- An anxious Millennial or Gen-Z?
- A daughter of emotionally immature parents?
- A people pleaser?
- Not sure who you really are or what you want out of life?
- Struggling with a past trauma?
- Interested in taking a creative approach to healing?
If you've answered yes to one or more of these - I'm here to help!

I am a trained Art Therapist.
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
I am a trained Art Therapist.
Seeking help requires courage and strength, and I applaud you for the steps you have already taken in your journey. The demands of life are vast, but I believe they can feel a little lighter with a supportive, affirming presence by your side. I am committed to providing a compassionate, accepting, collaborative, and empowering space for you. I firmly believe each person possess an incredible capacity for enhancing their well-being, and I am honored to accompany you on your journey of healing and personal growth.

JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
The modalities that I use are CBT, Sandtray Therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, IFS and EMDR.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.

I specialize in the use of art therapy to help clients communicate and process various topics that may be difficult to speak about.
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to help others find their full potential by using an eclectic approach to therapy. If you find yourself aimlessly scrolling through profiles in search of an authentic therapist, I may be a great fit for you. I find that being authentic with clients is what helps them build a foundation and feel safe enough to share their issues and concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach while mixing in elements of CBT to help clients guide their treatment while also holding them accountable.
I specialize in the use of art therapy to help clients communicate and process various topics that may be difficult to speak about.
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to help others find their full potential by using an eclectic approach to therapy. If you find yourself aimlessly scrolling through profiles in search of an authentic therapist, I may be a great fit for you. I find that being authentic with clients is what helps them build a foundation and feel safe enough to share their issues and concerns. I practice from a person-centered approach while mixing in elements of CBT to help clients guide their treatment while also holding them accountable.

Sarah has experience in outpatient, Early Childhood Intensive Behavioral Health (IBHS), and inpatient medical settings, working with children and adolescents aged 3-18. Sarah helps clients with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, separation anxiety, and grief. She uses a person-centered approach, customizing her methods to fit each client's needs. In her sessions, Sarah combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered, strength-based, & art therapy techniques. She encourages creative art-making to help clients process emotions, develop coping skills, & address issues in a supportive & empathetic environment.
Sarah has experience in outpatient, Early Childhood Intensive Behavioral Health (IBHS), and inpatient medical settings, working with children and adolescents aged 3-18. Sarah helps clients with emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety, separation anxiety, and grief. She uses a person-centered approach, customizing her methods to fit each client's needs. In her sessions, Sarah combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered, strength-based, & art therapy techniques. She encourages creative art-making to help clients process emotions, develop coping skills, & address issues in a supportive & empathetic environment.

Megan Palko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, CCLS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I will meet you where you are and sit with you in what you are experiencing.
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I am also a certified child life specialist (CCLS) and have worked in a hospital setting helping children and families cope with a diagnosis, hospitalization and medical procedures.
As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I will meet you where you are and sit with you in what you are experiencing.
I have 10+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I am also a certified child life specialist (CCLS) and have worked in a hospital setting helping children and families cope with a diagnosis, hospitalization and medical procedures.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Art Therapist.
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Art Therapist.
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.

Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
I provide expert guidance to those challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, respectfully. I am trauma certified for both children and adolescents and as a former middle school English teacher, I have a unique ability to establish a healthy, therapeutic rapport for all learners.
At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
I provide expert guidance to those challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, respectfully. I am trauma certified for both children and adolescents and as a former middle school English teacher, I have a unique ability to establish a healthy, therapeutic rapport for all learners.

Seeking counseling is a courageous step in your healing journey. As a therapist, I work to create a safe and affirming space for you to work towards your personal goals and growth. I am trained in art therapy and utilize art to help individuals authentically process and connect to themselves. I am here to work collaboratively with you, providing a non-judgmental space that is both safe and affirming. I believe in the transformative power of art and its ability to help individuals process emotions, connect with their true selves, and foster healing.
Seeking counseling is a courageous step in your healing journey. As a therapist, I work to create a safe and affirming space for you to work towards your personal goals and growth. I am trained in art therapy and utilize art to help individuals authentically process and connect to themselves. I am here to work collaboratively with you, providing a non-judgmental space that is both safe and affirming. I believe in the transformative power of art and its ability to help individuals process emotions, connect with their true selves, and foster healing.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
Nearby Art Therapy Searches for Pittsburgh
- Bethel Park
- Bridgeville
- Carnegie
- Coraopolis
- Monroeville
- Mount Lebanon
- Plum
- Sewickley
- Shadyside
- Squirrel Hill
- Upper Saint Clair
- Wexford
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.