Art Therapy in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Debbie Pullin, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Pullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Additionally, I offer EMDR, art, inner child and spirituality as modalities that can be incorporated into therapy.
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
Additionally, I offer EMDR, art, inner child and spirituality as modalities that can be incorporated into therapy.
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
(314) 287-5466 View (314) 287-5466
Photo of Amy Goldstein, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), ( ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, (EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), ( ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, (EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397
Photo of Vesta Colvin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vesta Colvin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128  (Online Only)
Unfortunately, life is not always rainbows and lollipops. Sometimes, life can leave a sour taste upon our palates, and it can be difficult to continue to eat from its tables. With major life changes, transitions, difficulties, and stresses, it can be hard to swallow at times. I can help guide you through your mental health journey, by empowering you on how to use those things life has given you for the recipe of recapturing & restoring peace & joy to your life. In 2013, I graduated from Lindenwood University with a Master of Art in School and Professional Counseling.
Unfortunately, life is not always rainbows and lollipops. Sometimes, life can leave a sour taste upon our palates, and it can be difficult to continue to eat from its tables. With major life changes, transitions, difficulties, and stresses, it can be hard to swallow at times. I can help guide you through your mental health journey, by empowering you on how to use those things life has given you for the recipe of recapturing & restoring peace & joy to your life. In 2013, I graduated from Lindenwood University with a Master of Art in School and Professional Counseling.
(314) 208-2874 View (314) 208-2874
Photo of Laura Miller Benchie, LPC, NBCC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Laura Miller Benchie
Counselor, LPC, NBCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and an Art Therapist. I have 25 years of experience assisting children, adolescents and adults and families improve their mental health, decrease stress, improve communication and relationships over all. Its important to me to provide effective individualized care. I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships or other challenges, I will work with you to identify your goals, build on your strengths and promote positive change where desired.
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and an Art Therapist. I have 25 years of experience assisting children, adolescents and adults and families improve their mental health, decrease stress, improve communication and relationships over all. Its important to me to provide effective individualized care. I offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, relationships or other challenges, I will work with you to identify your goals, build on your strengths and promote positive change where desired.
(314) 557-9678 View (314) 557-9678
Photo of Laura Benchie, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Benchie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Laura Benchie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-BC), and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) based in St Louis, MO. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, teens and adults helping to improve their mental health and providing effective, individualized care to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better.
Hello, my name is Laura Benchie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-BC), and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) based in St Louis, MO. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, teens and adults helping to improve their mental health and providing effective, individualized care to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better.
(636) 689-6751 View (636) 689-6751
Photo of Dominique Begnaud Atr Rpt Ncc, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, LCPC-MD, ATR, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominique Begnaud Atr Rpt Ncc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, LCPC-MD, ATR, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Art, play, and gardening therapy incorporate a variety of techniques.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse, communication, or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
Art, play, and gardening therapy incorporate a variety of techniques.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse, communication, or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
(314) 748-0120 View (314) 748-0120
Photo of Veronica Michelle Higgins, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Veronica Michelle Higgins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Through play, art, and other creative modalities, children can develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and build self-esteem.
I have always desired to understand feelings, behavior and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why and how to work with the child and family to unlock their inner potential
Through play, art, and other creative modalities, children can develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and build self-esteem.
I have always desired to understand feelings, behavior and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why and how to work with the child and family to unlock their inner potential
(314) 370-2640 x741 View (314) 370-2640 x741
Photo of Laura Benchie, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Benchie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Laura Benchie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-BC), and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) based in St Louis, MO. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, teens and adults helping to improve their mental health and providing effective, individualized care to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better.
Hello, my name is Laura Benchie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Art Therapist (ATR-BC), and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) based in St Louis, MO. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, teens and adults helping to improve their mental health and providing effective, individualized care to help my clients to make progress and start feeling better.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Megan Robb, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Robb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
(314) 970-5890 View (314) 970-5890
Photo of Marybeth Pugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marybeth Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
(314) 970-5040 View (314) 970-5040
Photo of Quincy Phipps, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quincy Phipps
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118  (Online Only)
As an LPC and licensed art therapist, I work with clients to help address challenges that arise from a number of life events.
Growth and healing is fostered when we feel accepted and heard. I show up for my clients with an inclusive, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental approach to sessions. I meet you with a supportive and open attitude as you explore your authentic self and grow into your potential. We can get there by learning and then practicing new coping techniques that can improve your quality of life while working to understand the patterns that may have led you to seek support. Together, we can develop a new path with less suffering and a better understanding of yourself and your limits.
As an LPC and licensed art therapist, I work with clients to help address challenges that arise from a number of life events.
Growth and healing is fostered when we feel accepted and heard. I show up for my clients with an inclusive, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental approach to sessions. I meet you with a supportive and open attitude as you explore your authentic self and grow into your potential. We can get there by learning and then practicing new coping techniques that can improve your quality of life while working to understand the patterns that may have led you to seek support. Together, we can develop a new path with less suffering and a better understanding of yourself and your limits.
(314) 944-2472 View (314) 944-2472
Photo of Ayelet Gottesman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ayelet Gottesman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
With kids, I use play therapy and art to help them express themselves and learn to better regulate their emotions and behaviors.
My approach to therapy stems from the belief that feeling truly seen and understood is a basic human need. I aim to provide a safe and reflective space where you can bring your whole self without fear of judgment. We will work together in a collaborative process to understand your unique experiences and how they've impacted you, figure out where you may be stuck, and help you take back the reins. I work with people, not diagnoses, and take a strengths-based approach to help individuals of all ages gain self-awareness, curiosity, inspiration and hope.
With kids, I use play therapy and art to help them express themselves and learn to better regulate their emotions and behaviors.
My approach to therapy stems from the belief that feeling truly seen and understood is a basic human need. I aim to provide a safe and reflective space where you can bring your whole self without fear of judgment. We will work together in a collaborative process to understand your unique experiences and how they've impacted you, figure out where you may be stuck, and help you take back the reins. I work with people, not diagnoses, and take a strengths-based approach to help individuals of all ages gain self-awareness, curiosity, inspiration and hope.
(314) 671-0714 View (314) 671-0714
Photo of Katie L Arnold, MA, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie L Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
As a registered art therapist, I bring a unique set of techniques to my clients.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
As a registered art therapist, I bring a unique set of techniques to my clients.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
(314) 375-4887 View (314) 375-4887
Photo of Susan Wise, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Wise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Susan Wise, PhD and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I am here to assist you in making the changes in your life that you have always wanted to make but have been afraid to do so. Change can be accomplished by building a therapeutic environment that focuses on empathy, acceptance, and mutual respect and trust. My approach to therapy uses a wide range of therapeutic modalities, and they include CBT, Art Therapy, Problem Solving, Coping strategies, communication skills, and more. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are motivated to move forward.
Hi! My name is Susan Wise, PhD and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I am here to assist you in making the changes in your life that you have always wanted to make but have been afraid to do so. Change can be accomplished by building a therapeutic environment that focuses on empathy, acceptance, and mutual respect and trust. My approach to therapy uses a wide range of therapeutic modalities, and they include CBT, Art Therapy, Problem Solving, Coping strategies, communication skills, and more. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are motivated to move forward.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Susan Wise, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Wise
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Susan Wise, PhD and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I am here to assist you in making the changes in your life that you have always wanted to make but have been afraid to do so. Change can be accomplished by building a therapeutic environment that focuses on empathy, acceptance, and mutual respect and trust. My approach to therapy uses a wide range of therapeutic modalities, and they include CBT, Art Therapy, Problem Solving, Coping strategies, communication skills, and more. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are motivated to move forward.
Hi! My name is Susan Wise, PhD and I am a licensed psychotherapist. I am here to assist you in making the changes in your life that you have always wanted to make but have been afraid to do so. Change can be accomplished by building a therapeutic environment that focuses on empathy, acceptance, and mutual respect and trust. My approach to therapy uses a wide range of therapeutic modalities, and they include CBT, Art Therapy, Problem Solving, Coping strategies, communication skills, and more. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are motivated to move forward.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tanadja Barber, LPC, PLPC
Tanadja Barber
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I specialize in art therapy, LGBTQIA+ issues, family conflicts, and life transitions.
My ideal client is someone navigating complex life transitions, relationship challenges, or LGBTQIA+ concerns. They might be dealing with family tensions, caregiver stress, or struggles with mood disorders. This client seeks a safe, empathetic space to explore their inner critic and find healing through creative expression. Their goal is to achieve emotional well-being, improve self-esteem, and build healthier relationships. They want personalized, respectful guidance to make positive changes and lead a more fulfilling life, drawn to my compassionate and creative therapeutic approach.
I specialize in art therapy, LGBTQIA+ issues, family conflicts, and life transitions.
My ideal client is someone navigating complex life transitions, relationship challenges, or LGBTQIA+ concerns. They might be dealing with family tensions, caregiver stress, or struggles with mood disorders. This client seeks a safe, empathetic space to explore their inner critic and find healing through creative expression. Their goal is to achieve emotional well-being, improve self-esteem, and build healthier relationships. They want personalized, respectful guidance to make positive changes and lead a more fulfilling life, drawn to my compassionate and creative therapeutic approach.
(314) 549-9940 View (314) 549-9940
Photo of Yvette Kristine Pelikan - Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
My primary focus is working with children 4-18 years old, through the use of art and play therapy techniques as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
My primary focus is working with children 4-18 years old, through the use of art and play therapy techniques as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
(314) 270-1336 View (314) 270-1336
Photo of Stephanie Whitney Jategaonkar, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Whitney Jategaonkar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered / Board Certified Art Therapist working with adults, adolescents, and children. My approach to therapy begins with forming a safe, therapeutic relationship that allows you to explore life transitions, emotional pain, or other symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, or eating disorders. We will move beyond symptom management and help you to identify and develop understanding of the deeper meaning of the presenting symptoms. Often, the symptoms are external manifestations of conflicts and core beliefs rooted in the inner world or attempts to avoid the pain of past and current life experiences.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered / Board Certified Art Therapist working with adults, adolescents, and children. My approach to therapy begins with forming a safe, therapeutic relationship that allows you to explore life transitions, emotional pain, or other symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, or eating disorders. We will move beyond symptom management and help you to identify and develop understanding of the deeper meaning of the presenting symptoms. Often, the symptoms are external manifestations of conflicts and core beliefs rooted in the inner world or attempts to avoid the pain of past and current life experiences.
(314) 266-8280 View (314) 266-8280
Photo of Laura Peroutka, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Peroutka
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
The art in therapy deepens the therapeutic work by engaging the whole self.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
The art in therapy deepens the therapeutic work by engaging the whole self.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
(314) 736-3649 View (314) 736-3649
Photo of Kylie Lowrie, MA, NCC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kylie Lowrie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
I specialize in working with children aged 3-18 and their families, addressing a range of challenges including effects of childhood neglect or trauma, parental separation, problem behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, and I utilize a person-centered methodology to ensure that each client receives an individualized experience tailored to their unique needs. I strive to maintain client autonomy and promote a fluid and collaborative approach, because everyone deserves a say in their treatment.
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, mindfulness practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing.
I specialize in working with children aged 3-18 and their families, addressing a range of challenges including effects of childhood neglect or trauma, parental separation, problem behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, and I utilize a person-centered methodology to ensure that each client receives an individualized experience tailored to their unique needs. I strive to maintain client autonomy and promote a fluid and collaborative approach, because everyone deserves a say in their treatment.
(314) 350-4270 View (314) 350-4270
1

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.