Expressive Arts Therapists in Burlingame, CA

Photo of Ryann DeSouza, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryann DeSouza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
In addition to preforming psychotherapy, I'm a certified Domestic Violence counselor, Expressive Arts Therapist, Attached by the heart parent educator, and ALA smoking cessation counselor.
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
In addition to preforming psychotherapy, I'm a certified Domestic Violence counselor, Expressive Arts Therapist, Attached by the heart parent educator, and ALA smoking cessation counselor.
Are you struggling with any of the following: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, Autism, hoarding, organizational issues, and parenting issues? I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life when taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you on this new journey. I am looking for highly motivated individuals that are ready for the challenge, whom are dedicated and motivated to make a positive change in their life. I believe everyone deserves quality care.
(650) 235-4676 View (650) 235-4676
Photo of Debbi  Odell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbi  Odell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
I offer expressive arts, somatics, parts work and EMDR so you can get unstuck, move beyond words, and heal at every level of soul, mind, and body.
Would you like to understand yourself and others better, feel more connected to your body and emotions, and be more effective your life and relationships? It may feel like you're really making an effort, but it still seems like something's getting in your way, and it's hard to figure out how to change it. That’s why you need the support of a knowledgeable and flexible therapist, to move past blocks, become more embodied and more aware, connect with your inner child, build skills and resilience. To go deeper, uncover the root of the issues, shift patterns and feel more grounded and effective.
I offer expressive arts, somatics, parts work and EMDR so you can get unstuck, move beyond words, and heal at every level of soul, mind, and body.
Would you like to understand yourself and others better, feel more connected to your body and emotions, and be more effective your life and relationships? It may feel like you're really making an effort, but it still seems like something's getting in your way, and it's hard to figure out how to change it. That’s why you need the support of a knowledgeable and flexible therapist, to move past blocks, become more embodied and more aware, connect with your inner child, build skills and resilience. To go deeper, uncover the root of the issues, shift patterns and feel more grounded and effective.
(650) 681-8359 View (650) 681-8359
Photo of Tina Mizukami, MA, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Mizukami
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
Trained in expressive arts/drama therapy, EMDR, as well as talk therapy, I have witnessed the power of creative expression to accelerate the therapeutic process.
Have you suffered a loss, experienced some traumatic event or lived through an unexpected change or transition? Are you feeling lost, missing a connection with yourself and/or others? Or, are you finding yourself stuck in unhelpful patterns in your relationships, school/work, and the ways you see yourself? I see psychotherapy as an opportunity for you to be with yourself - authentically and constructively. My intention is to create a safe place where you can experience solace, explore solutions creatively, and discover your needs while learning how to ask for them.
Trained in expressive arts/drama therapy, EMDR, as well as talk therapy, I have witnessed the power of creative expression to accelerate the therapeutic process.
Have you suffered a loss, experienced some traumatic event or lived through an unexpected change or transition? Are you feeling lost, missing a connection with yourself and/or others? Or, are you finding yourself stuck in unhelpful patterns in your relationships, school/work, and the ways you see yourself? I see psychotherapy as an opportunity for you to be with yourself - authentically and constructively. My intention is to create a safe place where you can experience solace, explore solutions creatively, and discover your needs while learning how to ask for them.
(415) 539-3980 View (415) 539-3980
Photo of Melissa Craven, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
"Her warmth, humor, sense of play and deep experience with expressive arts make her a wonderful therapist.
Are overwhelming emotions and self-criticism holding you back from life goals? I'd like to help you see beyond this difficult moment- I'd love to help you enjoy your life more. I'm Melissa Craven, licensed MFT (52019) with an emphasis in Expressive Arts Therapy and over fifteen years experience helping clients like you build skills to creatively cope with stress and overwhelming moods. Clients come to me at an impasse- when it's difficult to shake difficult moods and work through life stressors. Prevailing issues may include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, relationship conflict, and loss of purpose.
"Her warmth, humor, sense of play and deep experience with expressive arts make her a wonderful therapist.
Are overwhelming emotions and self-criticism holding you back from life goals? I'd like to help you see beyond this difficult moment- I'd love to help you enjoy your life more. I'm Melissa Craven, licensed MFT (52019) with an emphasis in Expressive Arts Therapy and over fifteen years experience helping clients like you build skills to creatively cope with stress and overwhelming moods. Clients come to me at an impasse- when it's difficult to shake difficult moods and work through life stressors. Prevailing issues may include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, relationship conflict, and loss of purpose.
(562) 620-7871 View (562) 620-7871
Photo of Jeanne Sutton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanne Sutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
You might be experiencing a setback right now or struggling with feeling like there's too much to do, that you're not okay, or not able to make the changes you desire. It's painful to struggle with feeling down, not good enough and self critical, or stuck in unhelpful behavior patterns or unfulfilling relationships. No matter the mistakes, traumas or losses, wellbeing and growth is possible. I help professional adults who are stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, confused, or down learn to regulate their emotions, feel better and find more confidence and joy. You can recover from trauma, loss, grief, and heartbreak and find a new way.
You might be experiencing a setback right now or struggling with feeling like there's too much to do, that you're not okay, or not able to make the changes you desire. It's painful to struggle with feeling down, not good enough and self critical, or stuck in unhelpful behavior patterns or unfulfilling relationships. No matter the mistakes, traumas or losses, wellbeing and growth is possible. I help professional adults who are stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, confused, or down learn to regulate their emotions, feel better and find more confidence and joy. You can recover from trauma, loss, grief, and heartbreak and find a new way.
(650) 525-2976 View (650) 525-2976
Photo of Amie Tyler - Holistic Healing, MATP, CHT, Rev
Amie Tyler - Holistic Healing
MATP, CHT, Rev
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
When you are going through a difficult time, seeking to heal a wound, or are embarking on a path of inner transformation, it can be healing to have someone walk beside you. Whether you feel you’re at your lowest low, or you’re experiencing a calling that is pulling your soul to be more of who you are: more authentic, able to see clearly, and feel the freedom to live beyond the limitations of fear, it is an honor for me to meet you there.
When you are going through a difficult time, seeking to heal a wound, or are embarking on a path of inner transformation, it can be healing to have someone walk beside you. Whether you feel you’re at your lowest low, or you’re experiencing a calling that is pulling your soul to be more of who you are: more authentic, able to see clearly, and feel the freedom to live beyond the limitations of fear, it is an honor for me to meet you there.
(650) 860-4365 View (650) 860-4365
Photo of Jennifer Myers Harrison, PsyD, ABPP, ATR-BC, DAAETS, Psychologist
Jennifer Myers Harrison
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, ATR-BC, DAAETS
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
(650) 727-1757 View (650) 727-1757
Photo of Jose Alejo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose Alejo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) working out of the Central Valley in California. I utilize a compassionate approach to therapy through the use of Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Person-Centered Therapy. I work to empower clients and help them better manage Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and other life stressors. I have worked extensively with adults, adolescents, and with the LGBTQ+ Community. The conditions I have the most experience and training in are Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Childhood Trauma, Body Image issues, ADHD, and Life Transitions.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) working out of the Central Valley in California. I utilize a compassionate approach to therapy through the use of Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Person-Centered Therapy. I work to empower clients and help them better manage Anxiety, OCD, Depression, and other life stressors. I have worked extensively with adults, adolescents, and with the LGBTQ+ Community. The conditions I have the most experience and training in are Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Childhood Trauma, Body Image issues, ADHD, and Life Transitions.
(650) 719-4567 View (650) 719-4567
Photo of Cindy Berenstein Sibley, MPH, MS, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Berenstein Sibley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MS, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
My practice is based on the assumption that all people need support and that progress toward achieving personal goals should be seen within a few sessions. If you're looking for a therapist, it shows you are ready to do the work and that is a great start! I am passionate about collaborating with kids, teens and families to work through issues. I truly believe a little time and effort focused on improving relationships can help so much. Contact me (email is best!) and we can set up a time to talk.
My practice is based on the assumption that all people need support and that progress toward achieving personal goals should be seen within a few sessions. If you're looking for a therapist, it shows you are ready to do the work and that is a great start! I am passionate about collaborating with kids, teens and families to work through issues. I truly believe a little time and effort focused on improving relationships can help so much. Contact me (email is best!) and we can set up a time to talk.
(415) 877-4344 View (415) 877-4344
Photo of Briana McCarthy, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana McCarthy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Waitlist for new clients
Are you someone who is at an impasse in some part of your life, whether it’s relationships, career, friendships, navigating mental health? Maybe you're a student studying and considering all of the possibilities of what lies ahead after school and in that process you're feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Or you're a working professional at a job that might feel unsatisfying and in result there's an imbalance in your life. Life is full of transitions. Every person has a unique story as to what brings them to therapy, whether it’s a big life transition or the feeling and need to find coping tools to navigate everyday life challenges.
Are you someone who is at an impasse in some part of your life, whether it’s relationships, career, friendships, navigating mental health? Maybe you're a student studying and considering all of the possibilities of what lies ahead after school and in that process you're feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Or you're a working professional at a job that might feel unsatisfying and in result there's an imbalance in your life. Life is full of transitions. Every person has a unique story as to what brings them to therapy, whether it’s a big life transition or the feeling and need to find coping tools to navigate everyday life challenges.
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Photo of Leslie Baxter - Leslie Baxter, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Baxter, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
You are so worried about your child. She cries everytime you drop her off at preschool and she is so shy at birthday parties that she won't leave your side. You thought she would outgrow this, but instead she seems to be more and more afraid of things. She is happy at home, but she still follows you from room to room. You just want her to relax and enjoy her childhood. You remember when your child first started school, how excited you were! You thought she would soon warm up and make friends. You want to be able to pick your child up from school and hear from the teacher that she was just fine once you left. You want to hear about what your child learned, and that your child played well with friends.
You are so worried about your child. She cries everytime you drop her off at preschool and she is so shy at birthday parties that she won't leave your side. You thought she would outgrow this, but instead she seems to be more and more afraid of things. She is happy at home, but she still follows you from room to room. You just want her to relax and enjoy her childhood. You remember when your child first started school, how excited you were! You thought she would soon warm up and make friends. You want to be able to pick your child up from school and hear from the teacher that she was just fine once you left. You want to hear about what your child learned, and that your child played well with friends.
(650) 516-4235 View (650) 516-4235
Photo of Ting-Yi Huang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ting-Yi Huang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
*Virtual Sessions Available* Does your kid or teenager often say NO, I DON’T CARE, or YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND. You see them struggling with anxiety and depression, or risky behaviors such as using drugs, and don’t know what to do. You might also have gifted children or teenagers who are struggling with perfectionism-obsession-procrastination (POP). Are you high functioning and having a stable job but yet have symptoms, feelings, and behaviors that are difficult to explain in the context of your life experiences? Are you often in a relational pattern where you do things out of fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG)?
(650) 581-9104 View (650) 581-9104
Photo of Manami Yamamoto, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manami Yamamoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Founder and President of Blue Humming Therapy, a non-profit mental health organization dedicated to fostering holistic well-being for diverse clients and communities. Received the world recognition in 2021. In my practice, I provide compassionate therapy for individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I prioritize building a trusting and supportive relationship with each client, and my approach is interactive, empathetic, and caring. My therapeutic framework focuses on:
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Founder and President of Blue Humming Therapy, a non-profit mental health organization dedicated to fostering holistic well-being for diverse clients and communities. Received the world recognition in 2021. In my practice, I provide compassionate therapy for individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I prioritize building a trusting and supportive relationship with each client, and my approach is interactive, empathetic, and caring. My therapeutic framework focuses on:
(888) 298-1154 View (888) 298-1154
Photo of Sarah T. Harkness, MA, LMFT, RDT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah T. Harkness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
Reaching out for help often takes time--there are so many reasons we give ourselves for putting it off! I recognize your courage for being here at this time. You are at the point in your life or in your relationship, in which taking action towards healing feels necessary. With warmth, creativity and insight, I help people who are yearning to live an authentic life - a life that is real, instead of perfect. One in which you learn to listen to your inner wisdom, to express your thoughts and feelings, and to face challenges with courage and integrity.
Reaching out for help often takes time--there are so many reasons we give ourselves for putting it off! I recognize your courage for being here at this time. You are at the point in your life or in your relationship, in which taking action towards healing feels necessary. With warmth, creativity and insight, I help people who are yearning to live an authentic life - a life that is real, instead of perfect. One in which you learn to listen to your inner wisdom, to express your thoughts and feelings, and to face challenges with courage and integrity.
(650) 362-8116 View (650) 362-8116
Photo of Bonnie Cardell - Sound Mind Neurofeedback & Healing Center: A Marri, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sound Mind Neurofeedback & Healing Center: A Marri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
A psychotherapist who also provides biofeedback, neurofeedback, and hypnosis for adolescents and adults. Common issues include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, and LGBTQIA+ related issues, including letter writing. Sound Mind Neurofeedback takes a modern, whole person-brain approach to wellness, combining biofeedback with talk therapy to achieve your highest functioning potential. https://www.soundmindneurofeedback.com/
A psychotherapist who also provides biofeedback, neurofeedback, and hypnosis for adolescents and adults. Common issues include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, and LGBTQIA+ related issues, including letter writing. Sound Mind Neurofeedback takes a modern, whole person-brain approach to wellness, combining biofeedback with talk therapy to achieve your highest functioning potential. https://www.soundmindneurofeedback.com/
(415) 484-9894 View (415) 484-9894
Photo of Gerry Anne Lenhart, PhD, ATM, Psychologist
Gerry Anne Lenhart
Psychologist, PhD, ATM
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I have a background and life long interest in art, literature and philosophy that contributes to a unique clinical psychological view. This view includes mainstream psychology and also goes beyond to embrace subjects not often included in psychology. I am especially interested and experienced with gifted and creative personalities and problems associated with giftedness.
I have a background and life long interest in art, literature and philosophy that contributes to a unique clinical psychological view. This view includes mainstream psychology and also goes beyond to embrace subjects not often included in psychology. I am especially interested and experienced with gifted and creative personalities and problems associated with giftedness.
(650) 603-0705 View (650) 603-0705
Photo of Wendy Alexander, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94011
With over 25 years of Mental Health experience the last 18 years having specialized in the treatment of children, adolescents and their families. My approach is primarily based on who is in the room and how I can be most helpful to my client. I utilize mindfulness, art therapy, sand play and cognitive behavioral therapies.
With over 25 years of Mental Health experience the last 18 years having specialized in the treatment of children, adolescents and their families. My approach is primarily based on who is in the room and how I can be most helpful to my client. I utilize mindfulness, art therapy, sand play and cognitive behavioral therapies.
(650) 684-5280 View (650) 684-5280
Photo of Bob Livingstone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bob Livingstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have been in private practice for twenty-eight years and I believe therapy issues are all related to loss. I specialize in working with children of divorce, those who have lost a loved one, men with anger issues, and the problems of teenagers. I am the author of five self-help books. My new book is titled Letting go of Grief: Move your Body to Rock and Soul. You can check it out here: http://tinyurl.com/k8kggrv
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have been in private practice for twenty-eight years and I believe therapy issues are all related to loss. I specialize in working with children of divorce, those who have lost a loved one, men with anger issues, and the problems of teenagers. I am the author of five self-help books. My new book is titled Letting go of Grief: Move your Body to Rock and Soul. You can check it out here: http://tinyurl.com/k8kggrv
(650) 741-1534 View (650) 741-1534
Photo of Kera Staten Burdic - San Mateo Child and Family Counseling Center, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
San Mateo Child and Family Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010
I enjoy working with children, teens, individual adults, and couples! Are you stressed out because your child or teen is dealing with anxiety, depression, academic, or behavioral problems? Are you yourself feeling anxious, depressed? Are you struggling in your marriage to feel that emotional and physical connection you once felt? I believe you are unique and special, and I look forward to working together to create growth and change in your life. I am the owner of a group practice with seven therapists who work for me, and I enjoy connecting you with the therapist who is your best fit!
I enjoy working with children, teens, individual adults, and couples! Are you stressed out because your child or teen is dealing with anxiety, depression, academic, or behavioral problems? Are you yourself feeling anxious, depressed? Are you struggling in your marriage to feel that emotional and physical connection you once felt? I believe you are unique and special, and I look forward to working together to create growth and change in your life. I am the owner of a group practice with seven therapists who work for me, and I enjoy connecting you with the therapist who is your best fit!
(650) 288-6615 View (650) 288-6615
Photo of Hilary Beech, PhD, MBA, MSEE, Psychologist
Hilary Beech
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, MSEE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlingame, CA 94010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in serving GIFTED PROFESSIONAL AND CREATIVE ADULTS AND COUPLES. Being gifted is a minority experience, which is hard to own or talk about due to cultural (mis)attributions of elitism and arrogance, so many gifted people have not explored this aspect of their identity and how this may be related to difficulties in their life. You may feel out of step with the world or misunderstood, and not know why, or that you have to hide aspects of yourself. Or have trouble making friends, be told you’re "too intense", feel socially awkward, not understand why others seem to respond negatively to your ideas, or feel deeply disappointed with the world’s imperfections. IN MY OFFICE, YOU CAN BE UNRESERVEDLY YOURSELF. Talking frankly about being gifted can improve your self-esteem and offer relief from self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, or depression, as you develop strategies to meet the majority culture more effectively. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked for 25 years in startups, nonprofits, academia, and F500 companies. I hold a Stanford MBA and Berkeley MSEE, and have special training in assisting gifted clients. I've also published research on the creative process.
I specialize in serving GIFTED PROFESSIONAL AND CREATIVE ADULTS AND COUPLES. Being gifted is a minority experience, which is hard to own or talk about due to cultural (mis)attributions of elitism and arrogance, so many gifted people have not explored this aspect of their identity and how this may be related to difficulties in their life. You may feel out of step with the world or misunderstood, and not know why, or that you have to hide aspects of yourself. Or have trouble making friends, be told you’re "too intense", feel socially awkward, not understand why others seem to respond negatively to your ideas, or feel deeply disappointed with the world’s imperfections. IN MY OFFICE, YOU CAN BE UNRESERVEDLY YOURSELF. Talking frankly about being gifted can improve your self-esteem and offer relief from self-doubt, loneliness, anxiety, or depression, as you develop strategies to meet the majority culture more effectively. Before becoming a psychologist, I worked for 25 years in startups, nonprofits, academia, and F500 companies. I hold a Stanford MBA and Berkeley MSEE, and have special training in assisting gifted clients. I've also published research on the creative process.
(415) 200-2685 View (415) 200-2685
1
Expressive Arts Therapists

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.