Expressive Arts Therapists in North York, ON
![Photo of Zaynab Zaghloul - Muslimah Therapy Islam-Inspired Women's Wellness, RP, ExAT, BGS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/583e7325-b1b2-43a8-97db-397bd01b36f4/1/320x400.png)
Muslimah Therapy Islam-Inspired Women's Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ExAT, BGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2J (Online Only)
I specialize in compassionate trauma care and I help my clients find relief through the use of Expressive Arts as well as other holistic, resource-based therapy modalities.
As-salamu alaykum, dear sisters. I'm really glad you're here. My name is Zaynab, and I'm a Canadian Registered Psychotherapist living in Al Madina Al Munawwarah. I am committed to the healing, growth, and well-being of my Muslim sisters. I provide online therapy that is deeply rooted in the shared values of our beautiful faith, Islam, including trust, kindness, compassion, sincerity, and purpose. The work we do together is faith-focused and integrated with Islamic Psychology. This means your deen and connection with Allah are nurtured with the utmost care as we tend to your mental health and overall well-being, in shaa Allah.
I specialize in compassionate trauma care and I help my clients find relief through the use of Expressive Arts as well as other holistic, resource-based therapy modalities.
As-salamu alaykum, dear sisters. I'm really glad you're here. My name is Zaynab, and I'm a Canadian Registered Psychotherapist living in Al Madina Al Munawwarah. I am committed to the healing, growth, and well-being of my Muslim sisters. I provide online therapy that is deeply rooted in the shared values of our beautiful faith, Islam, including trust, kindness, compassion, sincerity, and purpose. The work we do together is faith-focused and integrated with Islamic Psychology. This means your deen and connection with Allah are nurtured with the utmost care as we tend to your mental health and overall well-being, in shaa Allah.
![Photo of Shara Claire, RP, EXAT, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcb32005-c9c0-46af-8551-53fb5488dcce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shara Claire
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, EXAT, MA
Verified Verified
North York, ON M5M (Online Only)
My main training is in Expressive Arts Therapy, which means that visual arts, theatre, music, poetry, and/or movement work can be part of your therapeutic process if you wish.
Finding the right therapist can be time-consuming, emotionally exhausting and expensive. For this reason, I offer a complimentary full-length introductory session. I have experience with youth and adults navigating struggles with self-esteem, depression, early childhood or other trauma, disordered eating, relationship issues, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, gender & sexuality inquiry, and existential anxiety. Clients appreciate my precision, as well as my gentle but directive approach to therapy. Mindfulness and meditation inform my practice and I am available, if you wish, to support you to explore this part of yourself.
My main training is in Expressive Arts Therapy, which means that visual arts, theatre, music, poetry, and/or movement work can be part of your therapeutic process if you wish.
Finding the right therapist can be time-consuming, emotionally exhausting and expensive. For this reason, I offer a complimentary full-length introductory session. I have experience with youth and adults navigating struggles with self-esteem, depression, early childhood or other trauma, disordered eating, relationship issues, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, gender & sexuality inquiry, and existential anxiety. Clients appreciate my precision, as well as my gentle but directive approach to therapy. Mindfulness and meditation inform my practice and I am available, if you wish, to support you to explore this part of yourself.
![Photo of Kritika Mehta, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a941c9c-3cc4-4f94-85f7-e8c2d74b63f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kritika Mehta
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M4P
As a psychotherapist, I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and expressive arts including mindfulness.
Do you struggle with impacts of childhood trauma on your life? It can show up as anger, irritability, anxiety, chronic pain, physical sensations, depression etc. Do you feel that it affects your relationships, day-to-day life and your ability to be a 100%? Do you feel exhausted, tired, overwhelmed by past traumas and does answering emails, calls or texts become challenging? Does it feel like nothing seems to be helping? Working on traumas can be scary. Let's break it down into one step at a time.
As a psychotherapist, I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and expressive arts including mindfulness.
Do you struggle with impacts of childhood trauma on your life? It can show up as anger, irritability, anxiety, chronic pain, physical sensations, depression etc. Do you feel that it affects your relationships, day-to-day life and your ability to be a 100%? Do you feel exhausted, tired, overwhelmed by past traumas and does answering emails, calls or texts become challenging? Does it feel like nothing seems to be helping? Working on traumas can be scary. Let's break it down into one step at a time.
![Photo of Aneliya Saley, MTA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c365c66f-b714-4eec-8d97-73834b5ccbe6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aneliya Saley
Registered Psychotherapist, MTA, RP
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2M (Online Only)
I specialize in expressive arts, such as music and play therapy.
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. Are you and/or your child having struggling, having difficulty regulating emotions? Perhaps you are worried about how your child is coping with changes. In parenting, there are many challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults and life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to function successfully within their daily environments.
I specialize in expressive arts, such as music and play therapy.
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. Are you and/or your child having struggling, having difficulty regulating emotions? Perhaps you are worried about how your child is coping with changes. In parenting, there are many challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults and life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to function successfully within their daily environments.
![Photo of May Li, MSW, RP, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80be4ce5-4e7b-49e9-9e15-5635c45a7322/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have studied Gestalt Therapy for four years and Expressive Arts Therapy for three years, along with other different approaches and theories.
Meeting your searching eyes, my heart feels the pain. I ask myself, what I could offer? As human, we inevitably deal with pain, loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression --- I might not be able to feel the deep pain you are experiencing, but I am here, ready to go through it with you and know it will be overcome. I also know when the waves of pain subside, we always find treasures left behind. Life doesn’t mean to survive, but to thrive. Challenges help us to expand our heart, our view, our belief in ourselves, and make us grow. It is often not easy. But you are here, ready to meet it courageously, aren't you?
I have studied Gestalt Therapy for four years and Expressive Arts Therapy for three years, along with other different approaches and theories.
Meeting your searching eyes, my heart feels the pain. I ask myself, what I could offer? As human, we inevitably deal with pain, loss, sadness, anger, anxiety, depression --- I might not be able to feel the deep pain you are experiencing, but I am here, ready to go through it with you and know it will be overcome. I also know when the waves of pain subside, we always find treasures left behind. Life doesn’t mean to survive, but to thrive. Challenges help us to expand our heart, our view, our belief in ourselves, and make us grow. It is often not easy. But you are here, ready to meet it courageously, aren't you?
![Photo of Jasmine S Maharaj Samuel, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9eb3e01-82ce-4e85-9cb9-2b66b8c596bd/2/320x400.png)
Jasmine S Maharaj Samuel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M1L
I work from a CBT, DBT and expressive arts perspective grounded in Trauma Informed Care.
As mothers, wives, sisters and coworkers tend to put ourselves last. But we cannot pour from an empty vessel. I am committed to working with women's mental health and wellness encouraging self care, balance. I have worked in the health, education and settlement areas of social work over the past 15 years. I particularly enjoy working with women of all ages. I bring myself wholly into my practice as well as warmth and empathy. I understand that therapy may be scary and make it part of my mission to demystify to whole concept of mental health and wellness.
I work from a CBT, DBT and expressive arts perspective grounded in Trauma Informed Care.
As mothers, wives, sisters and coworkers tend to put ourselves last. But we cannot pour from an empty vessel. I am committed to working with women's mental health and wellness encouraging self care, balance. I have worked in the health, education and settlement areas of social work over the past 15 years. I particularly enjoy working with women of all ages. I bring myself wholly into my practice as well as warmth and empathy. I understand that therapy may be scary and make it part of my mission to demystify to whole concept of mental health and wellness.
![Photo of Michelle Directo (Espejo), MDiv, RP, ExA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/781e67a7-7b4e-45ce-83fa-32ca86da59bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Directo (Espejo)
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, ExA
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2L
I am also an Expressive Arts Practitioner, which allows me to integrate creative modalities in our sessions.
Hello, my name is Michelle. I am passionate about exploring with you, your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that affect the self and your relationships. I want to provide a safe and supportive environment for you to develop personal growth and transformation. I work from an attachment and strength based framework. Together, we will work collaboratively to improve communication skills, strengthen relationships, and describe how family dynamics affect you. I am committed to help you find meaning, present insights, and establish positive changes in your life. Please call/email me to see if I am the right fit for you in your journey.
I am also an Expressive Arts Practitioner, which allows me to integrate creative modalities in our sessions.
Hello, my name is Michelle. I am passionate about exploring with you, your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that affect the self and your relationships. I want to provide a safe and supportive environment for you to develop personal growth and transformation. I work from an attachment and strength based framework. Together, we will work collaboratively to improve communication skills, strengthen relationships, and describe how family dynamics affect you. I am committed to help you find meaning, present insights, and establish positive changes in your life. Please call/email me to see if I am the right fit for you in your journey.
![Photo of Shirley Katz - Creative Transitions Psychotherapy Group, PhD, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2104fdd3-cf51-4315-82c1-b443a310cacf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Creative Transitions Psychotherapy Group
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
North York, ON M2N
Are you looking for a direct but caring and effective therapist? Someone real who will work on tangible goals? I am Shirley, a Ph.D. level Registered Psychotherapist and Supervisor with 25 yrs' experience. Me and my team work well with people who feel misunderstood elsewhere. I supervise an amazing team who have trained in evidence-based practices including mature Psychotherapists, an Art Therapist and a Nurse/Social Worker. We often see clients who are are intelligent, & creative, with diverse ethnicity or lifestyles. We welcome LGBT2SQ+ clients, teens, adults and relationships.
Are you looking for a direct but caring and effective therapist? Someone real who will work on tangible goals? I am Shirley, a Ph.D. level Registered Psychotherapist and Supervisor with 25 yrs' experience. Me and my team work well with people who feel misunderstood elsewhere. I supervise an amazing team who have trained in evidence-based practices including mature Psychotherapists, an Art Therapist and a Nurse/Social Worker. We often see clients who are are intelligent, & creative, with diverse ethnicity or lifestyles. We welcome LGBT2SQ+ clients, teens, adults and relationships.
![Photo of Nastaran Ali Azizi, MSc, RP, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18f2a71e-b9c2-4509-af8c-39bc17825440/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you repeatedly drawn into relationships with people who are cold to you? Do you feel that even people closet to you do not care or understand enough about you? Do you feel that you are at your core somehow defective, that no one who truly knows you could possibly love and accept you? Do you put the needs of others above your own, so your needs never get met and so you do not even know what your real needs are? Do you find that, regardless of how much social approval you receive you still feel unhappy, unfulfilled, or undeserving?Have you learned that manipulation and guilt are effective strategies for getting what you want?
Are you repeatedly drawn into relationships with people who are cold to you? Do you feel that even people closet to you do not care or understand enough about you? Do you feel that you are at your core somehow defective, that no one who truly knows you could possibly love and accept you? Do you put the needs of others above your own, so your needs never get met and so you do not even know what your real needs are? Do you find that, regardless of how much social approval you receive you still feel unhappy, unfulfilled, or undeserving?Have you learned that manipulation and guilt are effective strategies for getting what you want?
![Photo of Xiangqin Shen, MSW, MP, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c826cb8-42d3-4d7b-9ea3-131641093263/5/320x400.jpeg)
Life's overwhelming moments can be challenging to navigate, whether you're in a new phase of life or adjusting to a different community. Finding the right therapist is crucial for essential support. If you're struggling with life's challenges or stuck in repeating patterns, seeking help is a courageous step toward understanding yourself and what you are facing. It would be my honour to earn your trust and work together to unpack the tough issues contributing to your struggling and explore optional paths for your overall well-being.
Life's overwhelming moments can be challenging to navigate, whether you're in a new phase of life or adjusting to a different community. Finding the right therapist is crucial for essential support. If you're struggling with life's challenges or stuck in repeating patterns, seeking help is a courageous step toward understanding yourself and what you are facing. It would be my honour to earn your trust and work together to unpack the tough issues contributing to your struggling and explore optional paths for your overall well-being.
![Photo of Clare Mezes - Relationships For Life - Clare Mezes, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ff6032-50fe-43d1-821e-859936f2193d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Relationships For Life - Clare Mezes
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2M (Online Only)
I provide "Couples Intensives", helping couples in making their relationship the best it can be...all the way to those who cannot decide, "Should I Stay or Should I Go?" Bring your painful and complicated life-stories including family of origin trauma, affairs, addictions, boundary and self-esteem issues, and sexuality concerns. Come for a full day intensive, or to a series of 4-6, two to three hour couple's sessions, using a Relational Life Therapy approach, (Terry Real) because you just don't feel close anymore!
I provide "Couples Intensives", helping couples in making their relationship the best it can be...all the way to those who cannot decide, "Should I Stay or Should I Go?" Bring your painful and complicated life-stories including family of origin trauma, affairs, addictions, boundary and self-esteem issues, and sexuality concerns. Come for a full day intensive, or to a series of 4-6, two to three hour couple's sessions, using a Relational Life Therapy approach, (Terry Real) because you just don't feel close anymore!
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![Photo of Maninder Kaur, MS, CCC, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1520882e-e52b-42b1-a772-c2237352d8e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Happy Hearts Counselling Services, we are dedicated to provide a safe & therapeutic space for individuals struggling with mental health/life challenges. We empower our clients to heal, grow, achieve their goals, & to live their best lives by using evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused therapy, Psycho-educational counselling, & talk therapy. Happy Hearts Counselling Services provides individual, family, group & couples counselling services, as well as parent coaching. We are person-centred as we believe that what works for one person is unique to what works for another.
At Happy Hearts Counselling Services, we are dedicated to provide a safe & therapeutic space for individuals struggling with mental health/life challenges. We empower our clients to heal, grow, achieve their goals, & to live their best lives by using evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused therapy, Psycho-educational counselling, & talk therapy. Happy Hearts Counselling Services provides individual, family, group & couples counselling services, as well as parent coaching. We are person-centred as we believe that what works for one person is unique to what works for another.
![Photo of Behnoosh Amelimousavi, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b39a4c34-4eca-4973-9f4d-6f1d3458e6ba/3/320x400.jpeg)
Behnoosh Amelimousavi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2L (Online Only)
I have a proven record of more than 10 years of dealing with a wide range of clients, including those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues. I have also worked extensively with couples and families. I am skilled in using a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-informed interventions ( IFS, Somatic works, yoga therapy, Hypnotherapy), Mindfulness, Family Counselling, and Couple Therapy.
I have a proven record of more than 10 years of dealing with a wide range of clients, including those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues. I have also worked extensively with couples and families. I am skilled in using a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-informed interventions ( IFS, Somatic works, yoga therapy, Hypnotherapy), Mindfulness, Family Counselling, and Couple Therapy.
![Photo of Andrew Goldstein, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65f79ac6-b461-4625-9541-4c1bf2acd719/3/320x400.jpeg)
In the beginning stages of our therapeutic relationship, I strive to learn and understand who you are and where you’re coming from in order to better define your goals and aspirations together.
In the beginning stages of our therapeutic relationship, I strive to learn and understand who you are and where you’re coming from in order to better define your goals and aspirations together.
![Photo of Simryn Parmar, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa9ae838-64d9-47b5-ac13-8bbbd2b58c54/2/320x400.png)
We all come from vastly unique life experiences and identities, and there is no “one size fits all” way to heal and grow. I take an eclectic approach to therapy that is guided by my clients' individual needs. My practice is influenced by relational, narrative, experiential, and existential modalities, which I have a keen interest in integrating with creative and somatic techniques. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that values warmth, curiosity, and collaboration. I work through the lens of an intersectional feminist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework that centers you as the expert of your own experiences.
We all come from vastly unique life experiences and identities, and there is no “one size fits all” way to heal and grow. I take an eclectic approach to therapy that is guided by my clients' individual needs. My practice is influenced by relational, narrative, experiential, and existential modalities, which I have a keen interest in integrating with creative and somatic techniques. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that values warmth, curiosity, and collaboration. I work through the lens of an intersectional feminist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework that centers you as the expert of your own experiences.
![Photo of Shahrzad Hazrati - Better Life Counselling Center, MA, RP, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351b38cf-eccf-4338-a80d-e00b0ee3dc05/2/320x400.png)
Better Life Counselling Center
Registered Social Worker, MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
Shahrzad Hazrati Registered psychotherapist and Registered Social worker (MA, MSW, RSW, RP). Shahrzad is member of the Canadian Association of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CACBT) with years of experience of providing counselling to individuals, couples and families deal with problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parental issues.
Shahrzad Hazrati Registered psychotherapist and Registered Social worker (MA, MSW, RSW, RP). Shahrzad is member of the Canadian Association of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CACBT) with years of experience of providing counselling to individuals, couples and families deal with problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parental issues.
![Photo of Katie Bergin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71565a00-522e-4fed-8243-029a0f948bd9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Bergin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2L
Waitlist for new clients
With kindness, humor, and authenticity, I support clients to uncover inner resources and strengths that can help identify effective ways to cope with and overcome challenges. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist, who is skilled at building an environment that encourages safety and trust. My foundation in community mental health has allowed me to gain comfort in supporting complex clients to explore meaningful growth when struggling with mood and behavior challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self-harm. As a Jewish Canadian, I am privileged to also offer a safe space to the community.
With kindness, humor, and authenticity, I support clients to uncover inner resources and strengths that can help identify effective ways to cope with and overcome challenges. I am a compassionate and collaborative therapist, who is skilled at building an environment that encourages safety and trust. My foundation in community mental health has allowed me to gain comfort in supporting complex clients to explore meaningful growth when struggling with mood and behavior challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, suicidality, and self-harm. As a Jewish Canadian, I am privileged to also offer a safe space to the community.
![Photo of Jawhar Iman, Mpsy, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a5fc54b-a2a3-4305-8479-3da8da4bf58e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have primarily worked with the male population who appear to struggle with expressing their genuine emotions to their significant others. In a safe and secure therapeutic setting, my clients can find the comfort to express themselves authentically. I aim to assist them in moving towards self-acceptance, self-compassion, and developing strategies to enhance their connections with others. Additionally, we can address emotional management techniques, including anger management, during our sessions.
I have primarily worked with the male population who appear to struggle with expressing their genuine emotions to their significant others. In a safe and secure therapeutic setting, my clients can find the comfort to express themselves authentically. I aim to assist them in moving towards self-acceptance, self-compassion, and developing strategies to enhance their connections with others. Additionally, we can address emotional management techniques, including anger management, during our sessions.
![Photo of Vivienne Wit, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/019db7d1-6712-440f-8f1c-ea866ae7813b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by worry? From thoughts of the past, to uncertainty about your future, these anxious feelings can spill over into your relationships, making life worse. You may feel stuck, avoiding certain situations that could bring on a pounding heart, breaking out in a sweat, or feeling like you can’t breathe. With support, you can learn new ways to move through your day-to-day life. I bring 15+ years to helping young adults who are struggling with anxiety regain a sense of peace and confidence. Together, we can help you take the hopeful, healing steps toward the life you want to live.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by worry? From thoughts of the past, to uncertainty about your future, these anxious feelings can spill over into your relationships, making life worse. You may feel stuck, avoiding certain situations that could bring on a pounding heart, breaking out in a sweat, or feeling like you can’t breathe. With support, you can learn new ways to move through your day-to-day life. I bring 15+ years to helping young adults who are struggling with anxiety regain a sense of peace and confidence. Together, we can help you take the hopeful, healing steps toward the life you want to live.
![Photo of Steph Paolucci, MA, RYT, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3906694-4d03-4695-b8f8-e9f3d1319cd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steph Paolucci
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North York, ON M2J (Online Only)
Everything we experience impacts both our mind & body. Unfortunately, more often than not we end up living in our head as a result of things like stress & anxiety. While our mind can be an insightful place, it can also be isolating if we spend too much time there. The irony in this default pattern is that our bodies are incredibly reliable sources that provide us with valuable information. They have the ability to warn & inform us of our triggers, boundaries, perceptions & fears. “What the mind suppresses, the body expresses." By listening to both, you can begin to understand yourself in a deeper capacity.
Everything we experience impacts both our mind & body. Unfortunately, more often than not we end up living in our head as a result of things like stress & anxiety. While our mind can be an insightful place, it can also be isolating if we spend too much time there. The irony in this default pattern is that our bodies are incredibly reliable sources that provide us with valuable information. They have the ability to warn & inform us of our triggers, boundaries, perceptions & fears. “What the mind suppresses, the body expresses." By listening to both, you can begin to understand yourself in a deeper capacity.
See more therapy options for North York
Nearby Expressive Arts Counsellors Searches for North York
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Expressive Arts Counsellors
What happens in expressive arts therapy?
In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.
How long does expressive arts therapy take?
An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.
How does expressive arts therapy help children?
Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.
What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?
Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.