Art Therapy Counselling in Saint Kilda, VIC

Photo of Suzanne Sharp, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Suzanne Sharp
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Art Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy also inform the way I work.
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then psychotherapy can offer you the change you need.
Art Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy also inform the way I work.
Life doesn't come with a user's guide and all of us struggle at times. In looking for a therapist you have taken a step toward finding greater ease in your life. Psychotherapy is about building a greater awareness and understanding of your patterns in life. This allows you to find a sense of spaciousness where, rather than act reactively, you can make more conscious choices and cultivate a stronger sense of self. If you find yourself often feeling anxious or depressed, held back by past traumas, not living the life you want, or lacking direction, then psychotherapy can offer you the change you need.
(03) 7003 2693 View (03) 7003 2693
Photo of The Mind Clan - The Mind Clan, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
The Mind Clan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
We therefore, take a more hands on approach, using art, writing, music, imagery and movement in addition to the traditional ‘talk therapy’ to support you on your healing journery.
The Mind Clan is a Melbourne-based clinic offering psychology and counselling services for young adults aged between 18 and 35 years. Our psychologists and counsellors have specific experience and training in working with young people. We understand how difficult it can be for young people to express and share their thoughts and feelings with others, therefore our team work especially hard to tailor our treatment approaches to ensure young adults feel comfortable, supported, and safe to explore their deepest fears and concerns.
We therefore, take a more hands on approach, using art, writing, music, imagery and movement in addition to the traditional ‘talk therapy’ to support you on your healing journery.
The Mind Clan is a Melbourne-based clinic offering psychology and counselling services for young adults aged between 18 and 35 years. Our psychologists and counsellors have specific experience and training in working with young people. We understand how difficult it can be for young people to express and share their thoughts and feelings with others, therefore our team work especially hard to tailor our treatment approaches to ensure young adults feel comfortable, supported, and safe to explore their deepest fears and concerns.
(03) 9070 5415 View (03) 9070 5415
Photo of Victoria Soar, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Victoria Soar
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Art therapy is a gentle and research based somatic psychotherapy, that can facilitate healing non-verbally.
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
Art therapy is a gentle and research based somatic psychotherapy, that can facilitate healing non-verbally.
Hi, I'm Vicki. I am a qualified Art Psychotherapist in England and Australia. I am passionate about art therapy and specialise in trauma informed art psychotherapy. This involves helping and educating clients on how to regulate their nervous system with art making, in a safe therapeutic relationship. This is particularly effective for clients with ptsd and anxiety disorders (select mutism, ocd). Client's goals are often to learn new ways of regulating their emotions and reduce anxiety and build coping skills. We can do this with art therapy, so they can be empowered to live the life they desire, with freedom from the past.
(03) 7003 2425 View (03) 7003 2425
Photo of Estefania Tello Arce, MPsych
Estefania Tello Arce
MPsych
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Art Therapy and Hypnotherapy are tools that can frequently help in this process.
If you are already checking this, it means that a p art of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
Art Therapy and Hypnotherapy are tools that can frequently help in this process.
If you are already checking this, it means that a p art of you is ready to be transformed, I´m here to assist you in that process. My most important objective is to provide you with a safe and professional space to go to the roots of your symptoms, not only the surface. In that way, changes being made are most likely to remain.
View
Photo of Tracey R - Tracey - Your Inner Light, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Tracey - Your Inner Light
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182  (Online Only)
This is achieved through a unique blend of talk therapy, meditation & breathwork, art therapy, mindful nutrition, menstrual cycle awareness, sound/energy healing, somatic/emotional release and ritual.
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
This is achieved through a unique blend of talk therapy, meditation & breathwork, art therapy, mindful nutrition, menstrual cycle awareness, sound/energy healing, somatic/emotional release and ritual.
Hi! I'm a Holistic Counsellor, Sound Healing Practitioner and Nutrition, Health & Wellness Coach. I work with women and specialise in mind-body holistic wellbeing. My approach blends Psychology, Spirituality and Wellness with a social justice and systems lens. My gentle and relaxed approach assists you to understand the root cause of personal challenges through increasing awareness, compassion, connection and prioritising stress management & self-care.
(03) 7003 2423 View (03) 7003 2423
Photo of Daniela Miszkinis - Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist., MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist.
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182  (Online Only)
Benefits of Art Therapy: boosts self-esteem, affirms dignity and self-worth, provides an emotional outlet, helps to express oneself in a way that is safe and contained, especially when accessing traumatic material.
I am a Holistic Counsellor with specialisation in Art Therapy (Master of Art Therapy, La Trobe Uni) and Clinical Counselling & Supervision (ACA). My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods. My holistic approach supports the whole person, not just mental health needs. I consider physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of my clients. I strive to create a space in which my clients can rediscover their own innate healing power, in order to bring about a feeling of wholeness and integrity.
Benefits of Art Therapy: boosts self-esteem, affirms dignity and self-worth, provides an emotional outlet, helps to express oneself in a way that is safe and contained, especially when accessing traumatic material.
I am a Holistic Counsellor with specialisation in Art Therapy (Master of Art Therapy, La Trobe Uni) and Clinical Counselling & Supervision (ACA). My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods. My holistic approach supports the whole person, not just mental health needs. I consider physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of my clients. I strive to create a space in which my clients can rediscover their own innate healing power, in order to bring about a feeling of wholeness and integrity.
(03) 7003 2809 View (03) 7003 2809
Photo of Naomi Rubinstein, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Naomi Rubinstein
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Largely inspired by the Gottman method, I am deeply passionate about my clients, and their well-being is my top priority. My dedication stems from a boundless reservoir of energy and enthusiasm to assist them in any way I can. It's a symbiotic relationship; as I help my clients navigate their challenges and achieve their goals, their progress fuels my motivation even more. I firmly believe in the power of determination; where there's a will, there's always a pathway to success waiting to be discovered.
Largely inspired by the Gottman method, I am deeply passionate about my clients, and their well-being is my top priority. My dedication stems from a boundless reservoir of energy and enthusiasm to assist them in any way I can. It's a symbiotic relationship; as I help my clients navigate their challenges and achieve their goals, their progress fuels my motivation even more. I firmly believe in the power of determination; where there's a will, there's always a pathway to success waiting to be discovered.
(03) 7003 2543 View (03) 7003 2543
Photo of Kaz Mitchell, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kaz Mitchell
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182  (Online Only)
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
From time-to-time we all have issues going on in our lives that feel overwhelming, confusing and too hard to deal with on our own. At the same time, for various reasons, it often feels as if there is no one there we feel safe enough with whom we can share our burdens. Whether it's a messy divorce, the death of a loved one, a traumatic experience, an existential crisis about the meaning of life, or a difficult decision that has to be made - it can be hard to figure out what to do or who to turn to for guidance.
(03) 6146 1629 View (03) 6146 1629
Photo of Melissa Jane Moss, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
The Bodhi Tree Psychology was founded by Melissa Moss. Mel is a registered psychologist (AHPRA), a registered counsellor (ACA) and a certified clinical trauma practitioner in sensorimotor psychotherapy (CCTP-II). Mel uses compassionate inquiry whilst integrating a variety of evidenced-based and trauma informed humanistic, somatic and mindfulness approaches. This approach works to inspire self-awareness, develop self-acceptance, encourage deep healing and sustain Wellness.
The Bodhi Tree Psychology was founded by Melissa Moss. Mel is a registered psychologist (AHPRA), a registered counsellor (ACA) and a certified clinical trauma practitioner in sensorimotor psychotherapy (CCTP-II). Mel uses compassionate inquiry whilst integrating a variety of evidenced-based and trauma informed humanistic, somatic and mindfulness approaches. This approach works to inspire self-awareness, develop self-acceptance, encourage deep healing and sustain Wellness.
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037
Photo of Amanda D'Costa - AJ D'Costa Counselling , MA, PACFA, Counsellor
AJ D'Costa Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Hello, I'm Amanda, also known as AJ. I am a professional counsellor of South Asian (Indian) heritage based in Melbourne and serving clients across Australia. I currently have appointment availability, including discounted telehealth sessions. Additionally, I offer Walk & Talk sessions in Melbourne. Feel free to reach out for a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
Hello, I'm Amanda, also known as AJ. I am a professional counsellor of South Asian (Indian) heritage based in Melbourne and serving clients across Australia. I currently have appointment availability, including discounted telehealth sessions. Additionally, I offer Walk & Talk sessions in Melbourne. Feel free to reach out for a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
(03) 9909 8812 View (03) 9909 8812

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mei Sze Goh, PACFA, Counsellor
Mei Sze Goh
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Armadale, VIC 3143
Mei is the Founder of Awakening Creative Therapies, and is a Sensorimotor Art Therapist and Counsellor.
Mei has extensive experience and expertise in childhood trauma, loss and grief, emotional dis-regulations, behavioural challenges, medical trauma and all support and therapy are to empower individuals to reach their fullest potential through evidence-based therapy in a safe, respectful and compassionate space.
Mei is the Founder of Awakening Creative Therapies, and is a Sensorimotor Art Therapist and Counsellor.
Mei has extensive experience and expertise in childhood trauma, loss and grief, emotional dis-regulations, behavioural challenges, medical trauma and all support and therapy are to empower individuals to reach their fullest potential through evidence-based therapy in a safe, respectful and compassionate space.
(03) 9111 5375 View (03) 9111 5375
Photo of Sandra Ifrah, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sandra Ifrah
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Armadale, VIC 3143
Sandra’s therapeutic approach is tailored to the need of the client, and uses a wide range of techniques, such as play, art, CBT, ACT and mindfulness, just to name a few.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing issues related to mental health. She is an experienced Psychologist with a family-focused approach where the client is provided with a safe, supportive and nurturing environment during sessions, and the family unit is very much a p art of the journey to change.
Sandra’s therapeutic approach is tailored to the need of the client, and uses a wide range of techniques, such as play, art, CBT, ACT and mindfulness, just to name a few.
Sandra Ifrah is a registered psychologist with extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing issues related to mental health. She is an experienced Psychologist with a family-focused approach where the client is provided with a safe, supportive and nurturing environment during sessions, and the family unit is very much a p art of the journey to change.
(03) 6144 6011 View (03) 6144 6011
Photo of Samuel Hardidge - Stonewater Art Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Prior art experience is not needed for art therapy, as it is an opportunity to experiment and approach mental health in a playful and explorative environment, which is valuable for everyone.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
Prior art experience is not needed for art therapy, as it is an opportunity to experiment and approach mental health in a playful and explorative environment, which is valuable for everyone.
Hi, I'm Samuel (He/They/She/Any) and I'm a non-binary/genderfluid Arts Psychotherapist. In life I have used the creative arts as a way of understanding, listening to and responding to my experiences and inner conflicts. I’m passionate about integrating our inner and outer selves and believe in the value the arts offer in encountering resources and parts of ourselves which aren’t accessed in normal daily life. I offer a gentle, non-judgemental and inclusive therapeutic space for you to reveal yourself as we explore struggles, hopes and what growth and resolution looks like for you at this time.
(03) 8203 5271 View (03) 8203 5271
Photo of Sue Guzick, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Sue Guzick
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda East, VIC 3183
Sessions can be discussions, or a mix of verbal and expressive art therapy.
Sue is a Counsellor and Art Therapist working with others to explore their lived experiences toward greater wellbeing and fulfilment. She has had the pleasure to have worked as a therapist since 2018 and to be supporting those with diverse lived experiences since 2014. Each of us are unique with our own life histories, environments in which we live, social, cultural, and personal identities. We live these through our one of a kind physical body. We have strengths and challenges. Sue’s therapy style is person-centred, hearing you to understand your lived experiences. Her style is to work collaboratively toward your desired goals.
Sessions can be discussions, or a mix of verbal and expressive art therapy.
Sue is a Counsellor and Art Therapist working with others to explore their lived experiences toward greater wellbeing and fulfilment. She has had the pleasure to have worked as a therapist since 2018 and to be supporting those with diverse lived experiences since 2014. Each of us are unique with our own life histories, environments in which we live, social, cultural, and personal identities. We live these through our one of a kind physical body. We have strengths and challenges. Sue’s therapy style is person-centred, hearing you to understand your lived experiences. Her style is to work collaboratively toward your desired goals.
0439 413 858 View 0439 413 858
Photo of Heidi Gaspar - Heart Expression - Heidi Gaspar, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Heart Expression - Heidi Gaspar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Armadale, VIC 3143
He art Expression was founded in 2009 by Heidi Gaspar, an experienced Psychologist providing an eclectic mix of clinical counselling and Psychological therapeutic services, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Therapies such as Art Therapy, Sandplay, Music Therapy, and Mindfulness based stress reduction strategies for children, teenagers, adults, parents, couples and families. Experienced school Psychologist with many years in Private Practice.
He art Expression was founded in 2009 by Heidi Gaspar, an experienced Psychologist providing an eclectic mix of clinical counselling and Psychological therapeutic services, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focussed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Therapies such as Art Therapy, Sandplay, Music Therapy, and Mindfulness based stress reduction strategies for children, teenagers, adults, parents, couples and families. Experienced school Psychologist with many years in Private Practice.
(03) 9118 9036 View (03) 9118 9036
Photo of Clare Stansfield-Smith - Embody Art Therapy, AThR, Counsellor
Embody Art Therapy
Counsellor, AThR
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Clare's own lived experience of transformational healing through embodied art making compels her to empower others to find, express, transform and heal their own inner world.
Clare, founder of Embody Art Therapy, is a Melbourne based registered art therapist, art therapy group facilitator, mental health and wellbeing advocate and contemporary artist with a longstanding passion for creativity, neuroscience and the mind-body connection. With extensive experience in the mental health field, Clare uses art making as a vehicle to deliver quality outcomes and positive change; enhancing the recovery and/or psychosocial functioning of individuals that may live with or have experienced a range of mental health issues or diagnoses, disability, neurodiversity, social isolation and/or homelessness.
Clare's own lived experience of transformational healing through embodied art making compels her to empower others to find, express, transform and heal their own inner world.
Clare, founder of Embody Art Therapy, is a Melbourne based registered art therapist, art therapy group facilitator, mental health and wellbeing advocate and contemporary artist with a longstanding passion for creativity, neuroscience and the mind-body connection. With extensive experience in the mental health field, Clare uses art making as a vehicle to deliver quality outcomes and positive change; enhancing the recovery and/or psychosocial functioning of individuals that may live with or have experienced a range of mental health issues or diagnoses, disability, neurodiversity, social isolation and/or homelessness.
(03) 7500 5741 View (03) 7500 5741
Photo of Yumi Sento - Speak Culture, MC, Counsellor
Speak Culture
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Yumi also offers Expressive Art Therapy.
Yumi is a mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology. She is a multilingual and has been working with multicultural clientele with an identity crisis, relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, anxiety, mild depression, trauma and HSP. She has been helping her clients to learn boundaries and how to maintain a balanced state of mental being. Yumi also works with parents who are struggling to connect with their children and guides them on how to deal with parenting stress. If you are looking for inner peace and want to get to know more about yourself, Yumi will walk with you in the process.
Yumi also offers Expressive Art Therapy.
Yumi is a mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology. She is a multilingual and has been working with multicultural clientele with an identity crisis, relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, anxiety, mild depression, trauma and HSP. She has been helping her clients to learn boundaries and how to maintain a balanced state of mental being. Yumi also works with parents who are struggling to connect with their children and guides them on how to deal with parenting stress. If you are looking for inner peace and want to get to know more about yourself, Yumi will walk with you in the process.
View
Photo of San Leenstra, MA, AThR, Counsellor
San Leenstra
Counsellor, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I will honour your choices and when exploring art therapy options please know that there is no requirement to be 'artistic' to work creatively.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
I will honour your choices and when exploring art therapy options please know that there is no requirement to be 'artistic' to work creatively.
I am passionate about working collaboratively and believe in balancing honesty with warmth and care, being straight forward as well as gentle, kind and non-judgemental. I work client-centred, with unconditional positive regard and allow each perspective to be heard, valued and taken seriously. I support each individual to explore their own unique way of being in this world, with all its challenges and rewards. I invite you to embrace a journey of self-discovery and growth in a safe, supportive environment where your voice matters.
(03) 4422 2660 View (03) 4422 2660
Photo of Lauren Fisher - Inner Worlds Arts Therapy, Psychotherapist
Inner Worlds Arts Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I also enjoy holding Community Therapeutic Art workshops.
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
I also enjoy holding Community Therapeutic Art workshops.
Please reach out via email. Hello! I'm Lauren (she/they) and I am an Arts Psychotherapist and Counsellor based in the Outer Eastern suburbs of Naarm (Melbourne). I have lived experience of being neurodivergent (AuDHD) and I am currently exploring my own queer identity. I am passionate about neuro-affirming care and psychoeducation around neurodivergence, and holistic care for youth, women and queer folk living with disability and trauma. I am a mum to one human teen and one elderly Siamese cat. I am an established artist who dabbles in art journaling, mixed media art, photography, dance and movement and more.
(03) 8771 5199 View (03) 8771 5199
Photo of Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Elwood, VIC 3184
Claudia works as an art therapist supporting victim/survivors of family violence.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
Claudia works as an art therapist supporting victim/survivors of family violence.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2134 View (03) 7003 2134

See more therapy options for Saint Kilda

Art Therapy Counsellors

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 behavioural 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.