Art Therapy Counselling in Subiaco, WA

Photo of Mark Walker, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Mark Walker
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
As a registered psychotherapist with a creative art therapy and pastoral background I work from a collaborative position of care, curiosity and empathy. I utilise a variety of approaches to match your specific goals and needs, facilitating understanding of your particular situation to overcome stuckness. One of the philosophies that resonates for me is, “The problem is the problem, the person is not the problem” (White & Epston, founders of Narrative therapy).
As a registered psychotherapist with a creative art therapy and pastoral background I work from a collaborative position of care, curiosity and empathy. I utilise a variety of approaches to match your specific goals and needs, facilitating understanding of your particular situation to overcome stuckness. One of the philosophies that resonates for me is, “The problem is the problem, the person is not the problem” (White & Epston, founders of Narrative therapy).
(08) 7078 7528 View (08) 7078 7528
Photo of Josie Scata - The Art of She  Perinatal Counselling/Arts Therapy, ACA-L2, Counsellor
The Art of She Perinatal Counselling/Arts Therapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
My approach is one based on using safe, trauma-informed practice, offering Perinatal counselling support and art psychotherapy for women and children, to support emotional regulation, connection to self, and an improved sense of well-being.
Have you been affected by an experience of birth, pregnancy, trauma, or parenthood? Are you feeling like your spirit is broken, you are drowning in a sea of uncertainty, and don't know what to do? I hear you, I see you and I can help you. Together we will work through ways to find resolutions so that you can begin to heal and enjoy life again. I am a registered Counsellor, and also trained in Arts Therapy so if you or your child find it difficult to verbally express what you are experiencing we can find other creative ways of working together.
My approach is one based on using safe, trauma-informed practice, offering Perinatal counselling support and art psychotherapy for women and children, to support emotional regulation, connection to self, and an improved sense of well-being.
Have you been affected by an experience of birth, pregnancy, trauma, or parenthood? Are you feeling like your spirit is broken, you are drowning in a sea of uncertainty, and don't know what to do? I hear you, I see you and I can help you. Together we will work through ways to find resolutions so that you can begin to heal and enjoy life again. I am a registered Counsellor, and also trained in Arts Therapy so if you or your child find it difficult to verbally express what you are experiencing we can find other creative ways of working together.
(08) 6493 7139 View (08) 6493 7139
Photo of Karen Jones, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Karen Jones
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
I am passionate and dedicated to helping you be the best version of yourself. I work with children, adolescents and adults. Allow me to guide and navigate you through overcoming challenges and building on your strengths you weren't aware existed!
I am passionate and dedicated to helping you be the best version of yourself. I work with children, adolescents and adults. Allow me to guide and navigate you through overcoming challenges and building on your strengths you weren't aware existed!
(08) 6493 7810 View (08) 6493 7810
Photo of Hugo M Gonzales - COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
COPE Centre is a multi-disciplinary practice that offers the highest level of psychological and mental health care, extending beyond the alleviation of symptoms. Our mission is to reduce emotional suffering and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and society. We achieve this through the utilisation of psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a clinical approach that is both widely applicable and continuously evolving, providing a profound understanding of the human experience and fostering lasting change.
COPE Centre is a multi-disciplinary practice that offers the highest level of psychological and mental health care, extending beyond the alleviation of symptoms. Our mission is to reduce emotional suffering and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and society. We achieve this through the utilisation of psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a clinical approach that is both widely applicable and continuously evolving, providing a profound understanding of the human experience and fostering lasting change.
(08) 7078 8301 View (08) 7078 8301

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Wilkes, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Jessica Wilkes
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
The Make It Well is a creatively responsive, embodied Counselling and Art Therapies service that welcomes you, as you are, supporting you in empowered embracing and expanding of all aspects your whole self. Jess at The Make It Well offers confidential, tailored sessions using a Person Centred, integrated approach. Whether you are seeking support to: navigate specific mental health and wellbeing challenges; safely explore of parts of your self; seek clarity or expansion... or whether you are curious about the possibilities of a Counselling or Art Therapy journey...The first step is to get in touch.
The Make It Well is a creatively responsive, embodied Counselling and Art Therapies service that welcomes you, as you are, supporting you in empowered embracing and expanding of all aspects your whole self. Jess at The Make It Well offers confidential, tailored sessions using a Person Centred, integrated approach. Whether you are seeking support to: navigate specific mental health and wellbeing challenges; safely explore of parts of your self; seek clarity or expansion... or whether you are curious about the possibilities of a Counselling or Art Therapy journey...The first step is to get in touch.
(08) 6206 8125 View (08) 6206 8125
Photo of Lauren Fisher - Inner Worlds Arts Therapy, Psychotherapist
Inner Worlds Arts Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
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.
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 Janeen Cameron, AThR, Psychotherapist
Janeen Cameron
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Northbridge, WA 6003
Become aware of, your bodies response to traumas and other life events. Explore & develop your awareness & to find solutions that are right for you. Using a trauma informed holistic approach to self-care. Using Neuroscience research, evidence based art therapy and creative psychotherapy you will tap into sensorimotor stress held within the body. Issues such as trauma, PTSD, reproductive mental health, adoption and identity, reducing chaos, managing control, stress, self-care, transitions, decision making and relationships which are impacted by wellbeing. Registered NDIS provider, EMDR, art therapy, dreamwork.
Become aware of, your bodies response to traumas and other life events. Explore & develop your awareness & to find solutions that are right for you. Using a trauma informed holistic approach to self-care. Using Neuroscience research, evidence based art therapy and creative psychotherapy you will tap into sensorimotor stress held within the body. Issues such as trauma, PTSD, reproductive mental health, adoption and identity, reducing chaos, managing control, stress, self-care, transitions, decision making and relationships which are impacted by wellbeing. Registered NDIS provider, EMDR, art therapy, dreamwork.
(08) 7079 4332 View (08) 7079 4332
Photo of Joanna Marie Anderson - JJ's Creative Art Therapies, PACFA, Psychotherapist
JJ's Creative Art Therapies
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I understand that the act of creating can often breakthrough the limitations of language, allowing for you to have deeper expression of emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Art therapy provides a unique and powerful way to explore your inner world, develop self-awareness, and work towards positive change in a supportive and in a non-judgmental environment. My goal is to help my clients develop the tools and skills they need to manage life's challenges and achieve their goals.
I understand that the act of creating can often breakthrough the limitations of language, allowing for you to have deeper expression of emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Art therapy provides a unique and powerful way to explore your inner world, develop self-awareness, and work towards positive change in a supportive and in a non-judgmental environment. My goal is to help my clients develop the tools and skills they need to manage life's challenges and achieve their goals.
(08) 6185 0278 View (08) 6185 0278
Photo of Samuel Hardidge - Stonewater Art Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Stonewater Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
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 Yumi Sento - Speak Culture, MC, Counsellor
Speak Culture
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (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 Sarah Dakhili, AMHSW, Counsellor
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Her approach is inclusive of Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Meditation, Mindfulness, IFS, Inner Child Work, CBT, Somatic Body Therapy, Neuroplasticity, Compassionate Inquiry and Art Therapy.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 12 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Her approach is inclusive of Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Meditation, Mindfulness, IFS, Inner Child Work, CBT, Somatic Body Therapy, Neuroplasticity, Compassionate Inquiry and Art Therapy.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 12 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Rosien Colin, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Rosien Colin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
CBT, art therapy, schema therapy, client-centered therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness), assessments (ASD, ADHD, and other psychological assessments), and supervision for provisional psychologists in the 4+2 or 5+1 program as well as clinical registrars.
If you are looking to grow your confidence, build a supportive community, and learn how to set healthy boundaries, Rosien, our clinical psychologist in Brisbane, can offer you a safe, supportive space to explore these goals. By cultivating self-love and improving your self-esteem, you can form and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, you can break old beliefs and increase your self-esteem, paving the way for a more positive and empowered future.
CBT, art therapy, schema therapy, client-centered therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and mindfulness), assessments (ASD, ADHD, and other psychological assessments), and supervision for provisional psychologists in the 4+2 or 5+1 program as well as clinical registrars.
If you are looking to grow your confidence, build a supportive community, and learn how to set healthy boundaries, Rosien, our clinical psychologist in Brisbane, can offer you a safe, supportive space to explore these goals. By cultivating self-love and improving your self-esteem, you can form and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. Through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, you can break old beliefs and increase your self-esteem, paving the way for a more positive and empowered future.
(07) 3179 6031 View (07) 3179 6031
Photo of Shannan Marano - Lavender Sky Counselling, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Lavender Sky Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques, that also includes Art Therapy, I offer a holistic approach to counselling.
Are you seeking a safe space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences? My name is Shannan, and I am here to guide you on a path of self-discovery and personal growth. As a dedicated person-centered therapist, I believe that every individual has the innate capacity for healing and personal transformation. Embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and growth with me. Together, we will unlock the potential within you and pave the way for a brighter future. Take the first step toward a happier and more fulfilling life by scheduling your Free Consult today.
With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques, that also includes Art Therapy, I offer a holistic approach to counselling.
Are you seeking a safe space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and experiences? My name is Shannan, and I am here to guide you on a path of self-discovery and personal growth. As a dedicated person-centered therapist, I believe that every individual has the innate capacity for healing and personal transformation. Embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and growth with me. Together, we will unlock the potential within you and pave the way for a brighter future. Take the first step toward a happier and more fulfilling life by scheduling your Free Consult today.
(08) 6120 1467 View (08) 6120 1467
Photo of Mauro Vieira, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mauro Vieira
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Bachelor in Psychology; Graduate in Psychology; Post-Graduation in Art Therapy; Post-Graduation in Psychological Practice in Institutions. I undertook my psychological training in Brazil and have more than 15 years of experience in the provision of mental health care and psychological services. I am now a registered Australian Psychologist. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, dealing with a range of complex emotional disorders, illnesses and life challenges. I am passionate about humanistic care and have extensive experience with existential therapy, client-centred and narrative therapy.
Bachelor in Psychology; Graduate in Psychology; Post-Graduation in Art Therapy; Post-Graduation in Psychological Practice in Institutions. I undertook my psychological training in Brazil and have more than 15 years of experience in the provision of mental health care and psychological services. I am now a registered Australian Psychologist. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, dealing with a range of complex emotional disorders, illnesses and life challenges. I am passionate about humanistic care and have extensive experience with existential therapy, client-centred and narrative therapy.
(02) 9158 6184 View (02) 9158 6184
Photo of Indira Chanda, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Indira Chanda
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Claremont, WA 6010
She tailors her therapeutic approach to suit the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of evidence based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Art therapy, Interpersonal and Existential Therapies and Solution Focussed Therapies.
Indira has over 20 years of clinical experience working in mental health services across the public, private and not for profit sectors. Indira provides supportive, confidential and client-centred sessions. She has a passion for assisting her clients to realise their full inner potential through strength-based counselling. She believes that each client is the expert of their own life and provides a safe therapeutic space where she works collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve positive life goals. Indira is also a registered clinical supervisors and welcomes enquiries from counsellors requiring a regular supervisor.
She tailors her therapeutic approach to suit the unique needs of each client, drawing from a range of evidence based therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Art therapy, Interpersonal and Existential Therapies and Solution Focussed Therapies.
Indira has over 20 years of clinical experience working in mental health services across the public, private and not for profit sectors. Indira provides supportive, confidential and client-centred sessions. She has a passion for assisting her clients to realise their full inner potential through strength-based counselling. She believes that each client is the expert of their own life and provides a safe therapeutic space where she works collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve positive life goals. Indira is also a registered clinical supervisors and welcomes enquiries from counsellors requiring a regular supervisor.
(08) 7701 9738 View (08) 7701 9738
Photo of Jaclyn Bergmeier - The Listening Tree , PACFA, Counsellor
The Listening Tree
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
When working with children, creating a safe therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance and I will often use art and play therapies including sandtray play while implementing evidence base practices.
To offer a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to freely express and explore their truth is my passion and purpose in life. One of my favourite quotes which guides my practice is by Bessel van der Kolk who states: "Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives." - Bessel Van Der Kolk. Through the many forms of listening, I am able to enter into the world of my client and walk alongside them as they explore, express and empower themselves to navigate the challenges in their life.
When working with children, creating a safe therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance and I will often use art and play therapies including sandtray play while implementing evidence base practices.
To offer a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space for clients to freely express and explore their truth is my passion and purpose in life. One of my favourite quotes which guides my practice is by Bessel van der Kolk who states: "Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives." - Bessel Van Der Kolk. Through the many forms of listening, I am able to enter into the world of my client and walk alongside them as they explore, express and empower themselves to navigate the challenges in their life.
(02) 5850 3626 View (02) 5850 3626
Photo of Toni Jackson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Toni Jackson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I work with: Talk therapy, body awareness, mindfulness, art/expressive therapy, parts work & inner child work.
I specialise in working with women and LGBTQI+ folk who are wanting support with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns. Many of my clients experience stigma and micro-aggressions on a daily basis. Some of the main reasons people choose to see me are because they struggle with feeling 'not good enough', or they have difficulty coping with overwhelming emotions, or they are struggling in a world that doesn't seem to accept them. Some of my clients feel disconnected from themselves and are wanting support to work out who they are. Most of my clients would like to feel safer.
I work with: Talk therapy, body awareness, mindfulness, art/expressive therapy, parts work & inner child work.
I specialise in working with women and LGBTQI+ folk who are wanting support with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and body image concerns. Many of my clients experience stigma and micro-aggressions on a daily basis. Some of the main reasons people choose to see me are because they struggle with feeling 'not good enough', or they have difficulty coping with overwhelming emotions, or they are struggling in a world that doesn't seem to accept them. Some of my clients feel disconnected from themselves and are wanting support to work out who they are. Most of my clients would like to feel safer.
(08) 9521 4353 View (08) 9521 4353
Photo of Magdalena Jantac
Magdalena Jantac
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Are you seeking clarity and lightness during confusing or challenging times? As a transpersonal art therapist, I offer to guide on your unique journey inwards to explore your inner landscape and find empowerment. Transpersonal art therapy combines traditional talk therapy with guided meditation and creative expression, providing a gentle yet profound approach to self-exploration, helping us to process tough emotions and bringing all suppressed and underlying emotions to the surface, that can't be contained with words only, giving us a clear perspective.
Are you seeking clarity and lightness during confusing or challenging times? As a transpersonal art therapist, I offer to guide on your unique journey inwards to explore your inner landscape and find empowerment. Transpersonal art therapy combines traditional talk therapy with guided meditation and creative expression, providing a gentle yet profound approach to self-exploration, helping us to process tough emotions and bringing all suppressed and underlying emotions to the surface, that can't be contained with words only, giving us a clear perspective.
(03) 4240 3925 View (03) 4240 3925
Photo of Mei Wang, Psychotherapist
Mei Wang
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Based in Melbourne, I am an integrative arts psychotherapist, companioning people of all ages and stages, and from all walks of life, in healing, growth, and coming home to themselves and their inner wisdom. Some common themes we tend to are self-esteem and confidence, life transitions, grief, dreams and nightmares, and spiritual and existential concerns. Drawing from multiple modalities, I practice with an blend of traditional Talk Therapy, Arts Therapy and Dreamwork, with creative and experiential approaches, through a psycho-spiritual lens. I am guided by my clients and their present moment experiences.
Based in Melbourne, I am an integrative arts psychotherapist, companioning people of all ages and stages, and from all walks of life, in healing, growth, and coming home to themselves and their inner wisdom. Some common themes we tend to are self-esteem and confidence, life transitions, grief, dreams and nightmares, and spiritual and existential concerns. Drawing from multiple modalities, I practice with an blend of traditional Talk Therapy, Arts Therapy and Dreamwork, with creative and experiential approaches, through a psycho-spiritual lens. I am guided by my clients and their present moment experiences.
(03) 7003 2268 View (03) 7003 2268
Photo of Heidi M Cowan - Tree of Life Art Therapy, Psychotherapist
Tree of Life Art Therapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Northbridge, WA 6003
I offer an individualised approach to mental health and personal growth. Using a combination of creative expression and the transpersonal it is my hope to help each person to explore their inner landscape to achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and transformation. The goal is to build skills and discover resources so that you have the tools to navigate through the challenges life can bring.
I offer an individualised approach to mental health and personal growth. Using a combination of creative expression and the transpersonal it is my hope to help each person to explore their inner landscape to achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and transformation. The goal is to build skills and discover resources so that you have the tools to navigate through the challenges life can bring.
(08) 6490 9085 View (08) 6490 9085

See more therapy options for Subiaco

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.