Art Therapy in Benson, AZ
![Photo of Meg Kelly, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf37e64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you creatively stuck and wanting to do more artistically? We can bring in art, ritual and other non mainstream modalities.
Feeling alone? Need someone to talk to who just speaks plain english? Are you trying to sort your life out? Do you feel like no one is listening, that nobody understands what you are going through? Call me. I have been a counselor, healer, artist and listener for 30 years. There are lots of people just like you that need a listening ear and some reasonable feedback. I am not going to tell you what to do. We will figure that out together. You can bring some life back into your life.
Are you creatively stuck and wanting to do more artistically? We can bring in art, ritual and other non mainstream modalities.
Feeling alone? Need someone to talk to who just speaks plain english? Are you trying to sort your life out? Do you feel like no one is listening, that nobody understands what you are going through? Call me. I have been a counselor, healer, artist and listener for 30 years. There are lots of people just like you that need a listening ear and some reasonable feedback. I am not going to tell you what to do. We will figure that out together. You can bring some life back into your life.
![Photo of Gwenn Herman - Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW, , LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59573acc-98f5-4de9-bed7-1905fe7ea082/2/320x400.jpeg)
Painted Desert Psychotherapy, Gwenn Herman, LCSW,
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Benson, AZ 85602
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
When I meet someone for the first time, I create a safe place free of judgement and open for them to tell their story. As they speak, I hear their words and voice tone. I look at their face, eyes, hands, feet, whole body, energy and see what they are also telling me. Then I develop a sense of who they are.
![Photo of Dwayne Kruse -Attainable Family Solutions Llc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7753f605-9084-4db7-81b2-fb4f52b22f12/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dwayne Kruse -Attainable Family Solutions Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Benson, AZ 85602
Intern needed! - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. The mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior. You are not your diagnosis. We provide counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. Our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
Intern needed! - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy and Master Certified Life Coaching available for Individual, Couple, Child, and Family Counseling. I offer real solutions for Communication, Anger, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD. When we stress our reactivity leads to regressive and unhealthy coping behaviors. The mental health field often uses diagnoses to label behavior. You are not your diagnosis. We provide counseling around attachment, communication and various coping skills. Our therapeutic process includes removing or reducing stress and establishing a healthy, constructive coping strategy.
![Photo of Marla G Kuhn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0429b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marla G Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benson, AZ 85602
Not accepting new clients
If you are looking at this website you, or someone you love, is hurting and you're not sure what to do about it. Asking a stranger for help is a difficult move to make and I acknowledge the courage that has gotten you this far. I honor that you are doing the very best you can with the knowledge and resources that you currently have available and I can help you build on your own strengths to do even better. A joyful and rewarding life is your birthright and I'd like to help you reclaim that gift.
If you are looking at this website you, or someone you love, is hurting and you're not sure what to do about it. Asking a stranger for help is a difficult move to make and I acknowledge the courage that has gotten you this far. I honor that you are doing the very best you can with the knowledge and resources that you currently have available and I can help you build on your own strengths to do even better. A joyful and rewarding life is your birthright and I'd like to help you reclaim that gift.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Eric Shiveley, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5842fd15-a533-4178-91dd-2b5348ef694c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Shiveley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85748 (Online Only)
I do think our relationships (or lack of) are an important starting point, and I use a combination of narrative, dbt-based, and even art-based interventions.
Depression, Music, and Arts Emphasis - I hope you're doing alright today. Okay, I AM a licensed therapist, and I've worked with people who struggle with all kinds of mood, substance, and relationship issues. That said, I think lo-fi chill mixes and animes like Spirited Away and Neon Genesis Evangelion have been some of the most helpful comforts for many people the last few years. We all need supports and something to do, and we need to feel okay when when we're alone. I was a recording engineer, musician, and videographer before I became a therapist, and I like to help people find their own voice and center.
I do think our relationships (or lack of) are an important starting point, and I use a combination of narrative, dbt-based, and even art-based interventions.
Depression, Music, and Arts Emphasis - I hope you're doing alright today. Okay, I AM a licensed therapist, and I've worked with people who struggle with all kinds of mood, substance, and relationship issues. That said, I think lo-fi chill mixes and animes like Spirited Away and Neon Genesis Evangelion have been some of the most helpful comforts for many people the last few years. We all need supports and something to do, and we need to feel okay when when we're alone. I was a recording engineer, musician, and videographer before I became a therapist, and I like to help people find their own voice and center.
![Photo of Lindsey Keyser Ball, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1053d842-412e-4e92-8e3c-04840466bad5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Keyser Ball
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Art Therapist, and trained in EMDR and art therapy, I draw from various effective approaches such as Person-Centered, CBT, and DBT theories.
Are you looking to overcome anxiety, boost self-esteem, and find the motivation to thrive each day? Facing the difficulties of life can be incredibly challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Sometimes, having a supportive and understanding companion can make all the difference. If you feel like you're stuck in old patterns, beliefs, or persistent obstacles, it's time to seek a path towards healing and happiness. I'm here to empower you on your unique healing journey by removing barriers that hinder your joy and well-being.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board Certified Art Therapist, and trained in EMDR and art therapy, I draw from various effective approaches such as Person-Centered, CBT, and DBT theories.
Are you looking to overcome anxiety, boost self-esteem, and find the motivation to thrive each day? Facing the difficulties of life can be incredibly challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Sometimes, having a supportive and understanding companion can make all the difference. If you feel like you're stuck in old patterns, beliefs, or persistent obstacles, it's time to seek a path towards healing and happiness. I'm here to empower you on your unique healing journey by removing barriers that hinder your joy and well-being.
![Photo of Kim McAndrews, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462b02fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
No previous art experience is needed to benefit from art therapy.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I will update as openings become available. Wishing you wellness on your path. As an art therapist and clinical mental health counselor, I work primarily with adult women who have a desire to explore and transform emotions and symptoms into authentic expressions through art making. Sessions often include talking, mindfulness, somatic grounding, art making, and other forms of holistic and evidence-based therapies. Through the process of creative exploration, clients discover strengths and resources within themselves that help them solve problems and recover a deeper sense of self.
No previous art experience is needed to benefit from art therapy.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. I will update as openings become available. Wishing you wellness on your path. As an art therapist and clinical mental health counselor, I work primarily with adult women who have a desire to explore and transform emotions and symptoms into authentic expressions through art making. Sessions often include talking, mindfulness, somatic grounding, art making, and other forms of holistic and evidence-based therapies. Through the process of creative exploration, clients discover strengths and resources within themselves that help them solve problems and recover a deeper sense of self.
![Photo of Merri Kae Vanderploeg - Launch AK, LLC, EdD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453aac2a-0c69-4d27-b95e-206fb7e03b60/1/320x400.png)
I use art therapy practices,instructional best practices, mindfulness, and executive skills practices during my sessions.
I have thirty years of experience working individually with students and adults who are challenged with executive functioning skills. My clientele generally are identified with learning disabilities, giftedness, or twice exceptional. I also work with individuals diagnosed with attention deficit disorders, on the autistic spectrum, anxiety, and those who are failing to be independent or struggling with academic and career expectations. Additionally, I assist tweens, teenagers and young adults seeking help in career and college counseling, scholarship searches, and financial aid assistance.
I use art therapy practices,instructional best practices, mindfulness, and executive skills practices during my sessions.
I have thirty years of experience working individually with students and adults who are challenged with executive functioning skills. My clientele generally are identified with learning disabilities, giftedness, or twice exceptional. I also work with individuals diagnosed with attention deficit disorders, on the autistic spectrum, anxiety, and those who are failing to be independent or struggling with academic and career expectations. Additionally, I assist tweens, teenagers and young adults seeking help in career and college counseling, scholarship searches, and financial aid assistance.
![Photo of Angela Daniels-Valenzuela, ATR-BC, LISAC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc50f0ec-c64d-459f-9318-b64273e45436/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Daniels-Valenzuela
Art Therapist, ATR-BC, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
Art Therapy is a therapeutic technique which allows you to explore various issues through art-making that can sometimes be difficult to express through traditional talk therapy. The process of creating art can foster healing, increase self-awareness, and provide personal empowerment. Art Therapy is a unique form of therapy that allows you to take an active and creative role in the treatment process. No previous art experience is needed, as you don’t have to be good at art to benefit from art therapy. The focus is on the process of creating the art rather than the final image.
Art Therapy is a therapeutic technique which allows you to explore various issues through art-making that can sometimes be difficult to express through traditional talk therapy. The process of creating art can foster healing, increase self-awareness, and provide personal empowerment. Art Therapy is a unique form of therapy that allows you to take an active and creative role in the treatment process. No previous art experience is needed, as you don’t have to be good at art to benefit from art therapy. The focus is on the process of creating the art rather than the final image.
![Photo of Jennifer Eileen Sorensen, MS, LPC, CPP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecfa0441-efe3-4aeb-a48a-b34195203c1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Eileen Sorensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85716
I focus on play and art based interventions to support the exploration of unresolved traumas, to validate your experience, hold space for understanding and co-creating a plan to help get you unstuck from living your best life.
Problematic symptoms and behaviors are often rooted in unresolved traumas, stemming back as far as childhood, infancy and even in utero. By understanding the link between the past and the impact it has on living your true potential today, therapy can provide the space to process through these events, ultimately leading to healing, understanding and reintegrating your identity. Using talk, play and art to dive deeper into the unknown, towards a brighter future for you and your family.
I focus on play and art based interventions to support the exploration of unresolved traumas, to validate your experience, hold space for understanding and co-creating a plan to help get you unstuck from living your best life.
Problematic symptoms and behaviors are often rooted in unresolved traumas, stemming back as far as childhood, infancy and even in utero. By understanding the link between the past and the impact it has on living your true potential today, therapy can provide the space to process through these events, ultimately leading to healing, understanding and reintegrating your identity. Using talk, play and art to dive deeper into the unknown, towards a brighter future for you and your family.
![Photo of Jessica Perkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5225179c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85743 (Online Only)
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
I provide a therapeutic client-centered approach to assisting my clients work towards their goals. I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), MI (Motivational Interviewing), Solution Focused, Family Systems, Structural Family Therapy, Art therapy techniques, Play therapy. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care and utilize approach in my practice. I have history of working with children, youth and families. I am honored to have worked alongside my clients as they have traveled down their own personal roads towards wellness.
![Photo of Amaya Herrington, MA, LCPC, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e08f202-ecce-4e82-880c-9c783e8c02ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amaya Herrington
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701
I am currently offering supervision and training to therapists, coaches, and other professionals looking to enhance their ability to work creatively with healing arts, combining ancient wisdom with state of the art contemporary techniques, as well as technology. I draw from EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Shamanic Healing, Tantra, energy healing, ancestral lineage healing, meditation, yoga, ayurveda, dance and movement, and visual art. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for support in truly leveling up, and are done with the old paradigm. I would be honored to hold you accountable to your potential.
I am currently offering supervision and training to therapists, coaches, and other professionals looking to enhance their ability to work creatively with healing arts, combining ancient wisdom with state of the art contemporary techniques, as well as technology. I draw from EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Shamanic Healing, Tantra, energy healing, ancestral lineage healing, meditation, yoga, ayurveda, dance and movement, and visual art. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for support in truly leveling up, and are done with the old paradigm. I would be honored to hold you accountable to your potential.
![Photo of Rebecca Ann Wilkinson, LPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC, ITR-TTS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6846438d-fdf9-45d3-b539-d72e2d5fd151/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Ann Wilkinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC, ITR-TTS
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Art Therapist/Certified Trauma Therapist.
If you are anxious, stressed out, or stuck in the legacy of trauma, I'm committed to helping you experience some peace of mind. I will introduce you to concrete tools for managing your distress so that you can finally get some relief and enjoy the time you have on this planet.
Licensed Professional Counselor/Licensed Art Therapist/Certified Trauma Therapist.
If you are anxious, stressed out, or stuck in the legacy of trauma, I'm committed to helping you experience some peace of mind. I will introduce you to concrete tools for managing your distress so that you can finally get some relief and enjoy the time you have on this planet.
![Photo of Joseph Jaworek, MA, ATR-BC, NJ LPAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e44122d-e360-499d-83b5-3bdb73dfd67e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Increase your awareness of how using different art materials can engage distinct areas of the brain, and experience the benefits of working with the Expressive Therapies Continuum.
Together let’s set some goals around how you can live creatively. Discover more of your potential and open yourself to the artist’s way of determining success. Individual 50 minute sessions focus on connecting you to your creative spirit. I have over 15 years experience working in hospitals, private practice and community settings bringing about everyday creativity when you need it most. I promise to be there for you in your creative journey. My goal is to help you grow from your challenges, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Increase your awareness of how using different art materials can engage distinct areas of the brain, and experience the benefits of working with the Expressive Therapies Continuum.
Together let’s set some goals around how you can live creatively. Discover more of your potential and open yourself to the artist’s way of determining success. Individual 50 minute sessions focus on connecting you to your creative spirit. I have over 15 years experience working in hospitals, private practice and community settings bringing about everyday creativity when you need it most. I promise to be there for you in your creative journey. My goal is to help you grow from your challenges, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
![Photo of Hayley B. Miller, LAC, NCC®, CYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adaab6a6-a806-4382-a694-bb3ad6989721/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our work may include mindfulness, grounding, movement, conscious breathing, art & somatic exercises.
Hi! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor & I enjoy working with both teens and adults. I have a passion for older adolescents & transition-aged youth (16-26yrs). I will meet you where you are, from a warm & nonjudgmental place. I approach counseling from a person-centered, strengths-based & identity-affirming approach. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard & empowered to live in joy as their authentic selves. I consider empathy, validation & humor as the key to building a strong therapeutic alliance. "If a person is understood, he or she (or they) belongs." -Carl Rogers
Our work may include mindfulness, grounding, movement, conscious breathing, art & somatic exercises.
Hi! I am a Licensed Associate Counselor & I enjoy working with both teens and adults. I have a passion for older adolescents & transition-aged youth (16-26yrs). I will meet you where you are, from a warm & nonjudgmental place. I approach counseling from a person-centered, strengths-based & identity-affirming approach. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard & empowered to live in joy as their authentic selves. I consider empathy, validation & humor as the key to building a strong therapeutic alliance. "If a person is understood, he or she (or they) belongs." -Carl Rogers
![Photo of Charlotte A Peper, MA, LPC, TAP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a4e347e-9cf8-4f3d-bad6-b8ef78ed8912/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that life, like art, is a masterpiece in progress. It may take a few accidents to discover the hidden essence of the picture – and beauty can emerge from error. My work in human services began over 35 years ago. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified Transactional Analysis Practitioner (TAP), EMDR Trained, CAPACITAR Practitioner and Trainer, and a Trainer in Sex Trafficking Research through ASU. I worked with homeless young adults for 11 years and with survivors of trauma for 15 years. I accept client ages 16+.
I believe that life, like art, is a masterpiece in progress. It may take a few accidents to discover the hidden essence of the picture – and beauty can emerge from error. My work in human services began over 35 years ago. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified Transactional Analysis Practitioner (TAP), EMDR Trained, CAPACITAR Practitioner and Trainer, and a Trainer in Sex Trafficking Research through ASU. I worked with homeless young adults for 11 years and with survivors of trauma for 15 years. I accept client ages 16+.
![Photo of Eileen Bauer - Childtherapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60c206ac-e9f0-4620-9d1b-3033c1558a3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide child therapy services that are tailored to the specific needs of your child with a minimum age of 3 years old. Therapy with children can look quite differently from adult therapy, since kids are usually not able to put words to their feelings in the same way adults do. Kids will usually engage in play and creative activities such as art work and sandplay. Therapy is more focused on the right-brain rather than logic and reasoning by giving the space for your child to engage in creative activities. As parents you play a vital role in your child's life and I can help you with additional parenting ideas that may help.
I provide child therapy services that are tailored to the specific needs of your child with a minimum age of 3 years old. Therapy with children can look quite differently from adult therapy, since kids are usually not able to put words to their feelings in the same way adults do. Kids will usually engage in play and creative activities such as art work and sandplay. Therapy is more focused on the right-brain rather than logic and reasoning by giving the space for your child to engage in creative activities. As parents you play a vital role in your child's life and I can help you with additional parenting ideas that may help.
![Photo of Nadene C Nappi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed7a0953-cf6d-44e6-9f79-c6ac807238cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
The mind can be a beautiful yet intricately tangled realm. It is my passion to help clients unravel their core thoughts and emotions impacting their day to day lives. Whether it is delving into the stressors of work and school, strengthening relationships with loved ones and peers, or simply finding one's strengths and goals for their own happiness. I also co-facilitate two therapy groups. Saturdays at 10am we host a teenage girls group (ages 14 to 17) and on Thursdays at 5:30 we are building a client list to start a tween girls art therapy group (ages 10-13).
The mind can be a beautiful yet intricately tangled realm. It is my passion to help clients unravel their core thoughts and emotions impacting their day to day lives. Whether it is delving into the stressors of work and school, strengthening relationships with loved ones and peers, or simply finding one's strengths and goals for their own happiness. I also co-facilitate two therapy groups. Saturdays at 10am we host a teenage girls group (ages 14 to 17) and on Thursdays at 5:30 we are building a client list to start a tween girls art therapy group (ages 10-13).
![Photo of Karen Michelle Morse, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4fdd64c-2f84-4217-a48f-58fc1c6b2868/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about significant changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for the past 25 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from young children to adults and provide individual as well as family therapy. Specialties include Play Therapy, Trauma and PTSD, Somatic Experiencing and Somatic Touch, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, and Parenting.
My treatment approaches include both verbal and nonverbal therapies: Art, Sand Tray, Play, and CBT.
Therapy is a process that brings about significant changes and personal growth and I am often amazed at the courage and motivation my clients display. I am honored to be a part of this process with you. I have been a practicing therapist in Tucson for the past 25 years. I enjoy working with a variety of age groups from young children to adults and provide individual as well as family therapy. Specialties include Play Therapy, Trauma and PTSD, Somatic Experiencing and Somatic Touch, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, and Parenting.
![Photo of Blanca Obregón, MA LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f4638d-3bfc-4452-9483-93e978fb45cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blanca Obregón
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85719 (Online Only)
Immediate Openings! I am a licensed professional counselor both in Maine and Az. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, growth and bringing thoughts/behaviors into awareness. Whether you need help navigating relationship difficulties, or letting go of things that no longer serve you; or you are looking for more balance, well-being, and meaning in your life. It takes courage to seek help when experiencing a life changing event such as death, divorce, or illness. I take a creative and empathic approach to therapy. I aim to help you tell your story, become self-aware, find your strengths, make viable choices, & face change creatively.
Immediate Openings! I am a licensed professional counselor both in Maine and Az. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, growth and bringing thoughts/behaviors into awareness. Whether you need help navigating relationship difficulties, or letting go of things that no longer serve you; or you are looking for more balance, well-being, and meaning in your life. It takes courage to seek help when experiencing a life changing event such as death, divorce, or illness. I take a creative and empathic approach to therapy. I aim to help you tell your story, become self-aware, find your strengths, make viable choices, & face change creatively.
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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.