Expressive Arts Therapists in Hayward, CA

Photo of Sandra Isabel Zuniga, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sandra Isabel Zuniga
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545  (Online Only)
I utilize Person Centered, Expressive Arts, Narrative Therapy and Strength based approaches among others, but most importantly, I strive to provide a safe space where you may feel welcomed and accepted as you are.
Are you someone who is often taking care of or thinking about others? Do you struggle to find time for your needs? Do you feel overwhelmed with everyday demands? Do you feel unseen or without a voice? Maybe you have been told you are too much or you want too much, but your needs and desires tell a story. Will you allow yourself to tell it? Asking for help can be difficult and wondering how things could change might be scary, but you do not have to do this alone. Every day I support people who struggle with these same issues and more. I want to invite you to take the first step so you can get the support you need and deserve.
I utilize Person Centered, Expressive Arts, Narrative Therapy and Strength based approaches among others, but most importantly, I strive to provide a safe space where you may feel welcomed and accepted as you are.
Are you someone who is often taking care of or thinking about others? Do you struggle to find time for your needs? Do you feel overwhelmed with everyday demands? Do you feel unseen or without a voice? Maybe you have been told you are too much or you want too much, but your needs and desires tell a story. Will you allow yourself to tell it? Asking for help can be difficult and wondering how things could change might be scary, but you do not have to do this alone. Every day I support people who struggle with these same issues and more. I want to invite you to take the first step so you can get the support you need and deserve.
(510) 216-1576 View (510) 216-1576
Photo of Kara Vesely, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara Vesely
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541  (Online Only)
I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one. Together, we will work on the issues that may be holding you back from living a more fulfilling life. I use a compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental approach in which I seek to understand you and your life experiences. My graduate school training in art therapy confirmed my belief in the healing power of creativity. I work for several telehealth platforms, including Foresight Mental Health (1-888-588-8995), Path Mental Health, and Advances in Mental Health (based in Long Beach, California (562-365-2020).
I believe that the therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one. Together, we will work on the issues that may be holding you back from living a more fulfilling life. I use a compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental approach in which I seek to understand you and your life experiences. My graduate school training in art therapy confirmed my belief in the healing power of creativity. I work for several telehealth platforms, including Foresight Mental Health (1-888-588-8995), Path Mental Health, and Advances in Mental Health (based in Long Beach, California (562-365-2020).
(562) 314-3983 View (562) 314-3983
Photo of Marhya Kelsch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marhya Kelsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find a way to manage the impacts of trauma? Have you experienced symptoms of depression or anxiety due to living with chronic illness or pain? Do you fear that your mental health will only get worse? Therapy can provide you a safer space to explore the challenges you face. Clients I have worked with report that they have been able to do things that felt impossible, approach limitations and pain in a gentler way, enjoy and appreciate their body, participate in things they have been avoiding, develop a routine that feels rewarding and purposeful within their limits and increase social activities.
Are you struggling to find a way to manage the impacts of trauma? Have you experienced symptoms of depression or anxiety due to living with chronic illness or pain? Do you fear that your mental health will only get worse? Therapy can provide you a safer space to explore the challenges you face. Clients I have worked with report that they have been able to do things that felt impossible, approach limitations and pain in a gentler way, enjoy and appreciate their body, participate in things they have been avoiding, develop a routine that feels rewarding and purposeful within their limits and increase social activities.
(510) 552-2327 View (510) 552-2327
Photo of Greta Rosenberger, LMFT, MA, MDiv, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greta Rosenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MDiv, MS
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545
Therapy is Sacred Ground. People's hurts, dreams and hearts are sacred too. I honor the the courage it takes to face difficulties from the past and begin to live and dream again. I have years of experience helping people manage transitions and experience victory over past traumatic experiences. I advocate for and help guide clients to rediscover their personal resilience and internal resources to overcome difficult circumstances and issues (trauma, depression and anxiety). I am a calm, compassionate listener who enjoys celebrating your growth and helping you to embrace new meaning in your life with joy and courage.
Therapy is Sacred Ground. People's hurts, dreams and hearts are sacred too. I honor the the courage it takes to face difficulties from the past and begin to live and dream again. I have years of experience helping people manage transitions and experience victory over past traumatic experiences. I advocate for and help guide clients to rediscover their personal resilience and internal resources to overcome difficult circumstances and issues (trauma, depression and anxiety). I am a calm, compassionate listener who enjoys celebrating your growth and helping you to embrace new meaning in your life with joy and courage.
(510) 907-6055 View (510) 907-6055
Photo of Alana N Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alana N Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94541
Welcome! My name is Alana Jones and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping children, adults, and families navigate the unforeseen complexity and stress in their lives. Early in my development, I faced several difficult experiences that nearly turned my life upside-down. Thankfully, I had been introduced to a therapeutic support system at a young age which provided me with new perspectives, acceptance, and reinforced me with a sense of confident optimism. My relationship with therapy has had a profoundly positive influence on my life and my goal in practice is to instill those same benefits in you.
Welcome! My name is Alana Jones and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping children, adults, and families navigate the unforeseen complexity and stress in their lives. Early in my development, I faced several difficult experiences that nearly turned my life upside-down. Thankfully, I had been introduced to a therapeutic support system at a young age which provided me with new perspectives, acceptance, and reinforced me with a sense of confident optimism. My relationship with therapy has had a profoundly positive influence on my life and my goal in practice is to instill those same benefits in you.
(341) 217-8201 View (341) 217-8201
Photo of Colleen P Arnold, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colleen P Arnold
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94544  (Online Only)
I have been in private practice since 1996, and although I've worked with many different populations, I specialize in young adults between 18-29, and woman struggling with depression or anxiety who are undergoing a life transition, such as graduating high school, college or heading into motherhood. I also lead workshops and provide personal coaching for mothers who need more self-care. My work is primarily strength-based and informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and trauma-informed interventions. I focus on working with strengths, values and interests to help you create a life worth living.
I have been in private practice since 1996, and although I've worked with many different populations, I specialize in young adults between 18-29, and woman struggling with depression or anxiety who are undergoing a life transition, such as graduating high school, college or heading into motherhood. I also lead workshops and provide personal coaching for mothers who need more self-care. My work is primarily strength-based and informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and trauma-informed interventions. I focus on working with strengths, values and interests to help you create a life worth living.
(415) 968-9719 View (415) 968-9719
Photo of Sandra Block, CP, Psychologist
Sandra Block
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
My name is Sandra Block, Ph.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Southern California providing in-office and online psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals (18-99 years of age) for over 30 years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues at home and at work, gambling addiction, parenting issues, family/generational conflicts, grief, aging issues, and ongoing stresses of chronic illness.
My name is Sandra Block, Ph.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Southern California providing in-office and online psychotherapy for children, adolescents, families, couples, and individuals (18-99 years of age) for over 30 years. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues at home and at work, gambling addiction, parenting issues, family/generational conflicts, grief, aging issues, and ongoing stresses of chronic illness.
(619) 759-6737 View (619) 759-6737
Photo of Leyla Jolivette, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leyla Jolivette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
My name is Leyla Jolivette M.A., LMFT., APCC. I provide individual and couples therapy, and focus on helping people struggling with depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, and coping skills. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am trained in EMDR, am a certified Grief Therapist, and am LGBTQ-trained and supportive. I am very passionate about providing the space for others to grow, discover themselves, and find more fulfillment in life.
My name is Leyla Jolivette M.A., LMFT., APCC. I provide individual and couples therapy, and focus on helping people struggling with depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, and coping skills. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am trained in EMDR, am a certified Grief Therapist, and am LGBTQ-trained and supportive. I am very passionate about providing the space for others to grow, discover themselves, and find more fulfillment in life.
(818) 275-5766 View (818) 275-5766
Photo of Laura (Lo) Wesely, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura (Lo) Wesely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
Whether sitting with individuals or partners, I am here to remind you of what you already know but might have forgotten: you are enough. Many clients find their way to me because they want to work through challenges related to their identity, acculturation, sexuality, gender expression, relationship formation, and early traumas. My identities as a queer, non-monogamous, sex- and kink-positive, immigrant woman tend to attract potential clients who share some of these positionalities.
(510) 462-3503 View (510) 462-3503
Photo of Michelle Young, EdS, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94543  (Online Only)
Have you felt as though your emotions are spiraling out of control, or that you are walking on eggshells trying to avoid negative interactions with those around you? You may be struggling to cope with the effects of trauma or feelings of worry, hopelessness, or detachment. Perhaps you have a loved one who is experiencing chronic physical or mental health conditions which influence your emotional well being. It is not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You may even feel as if your very identity is defined by the problems you are facing. You just want to get control of your life back, and build a new, healthy you.
Have you felt as though your emotions are spiraling out of control, or that you are walking on eggshells trying to avoid negative interactions with those around you? You may be struggling to cope with the effects of trauma or feelings of worry, hopelessness, or detachment. Perhaps you have a loved one who is experiencing chronic physical or mental health conditions which influence your emotional well being. It is not uncommon to feel stuck or overwhelmed. You may even feel as if your very identity is defined by the problems you are facing. You just want to get control of your life back, and build a new, healthy you.
(707) 985-0970 View (707) 985-0970

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine S Kovach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine S Kovach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
I provide a warm, supportive presence, an individualized approach to counseling and offer the use of expressive arts and guided imagery in the service of easing grief and pain.
I specialize in supportive counseling with those facing serious illness (chronic, life threatening or new diagnoses), coping with the challenges of caregiving and grief/loss, as well as dealing with other life transitions. I am also pleased to provide consultations regarding elder care and planning for increasing needs. I frequently facilitate caregiver support groups and groups to support hospice staff members as they provide care to those who are terminally ill. In addition, I offer workshops employing expressive arts to address issues of grief and life transitions (Example: Day of the Dead Altar-making in Honor of Lost Loved ones).
I provide a warm, supportive presence, an individualized approach to counseling and offer the use of expressive arts and guided imagery in the service of easing grief and pain.
I specialize in supportive counseling with those facing serious illness (chronic, life threatening or new diagnoses), coping with the challenges of caregiving and grief/loss, as well as dealing with other life transitions. I am also pleased to provide consultations regarding elder care and planning for increasing needs. I frequently facilitate caregiver support groups and groups to support hospice staff members as they provide care to those who are terminally ill. In addition, I offer workshops employing expressive arts to address issues of grief and life transitions (Example: Day of the Dead Altar-making in Honor of Lost Loved ones).
(510) 871-8880 View (510) 871-8880
Photo of Sylvie Stein, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sylvie Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
My approach is warm, holistic, somatic, spiritual, and mindfulness-based, and is shaped by peer support, expressive arts, ancestral connection, and healing justice—a framework centering economic, disability, and racial justice.
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
My approach is warm, holistic, somatic, spiritual, and mindfulness-based, and is shaped by peer support, expressive arts, ancestral connection, and healing justice—a framework centering economic, disability, and racial justice.
Hi there! My name's Sylvie and my pronouns are she/her and they/them. As a therapist, I am tender with people, tough on systems, and committed to our collective liberation. I've been a mental health worker for over eight years in schools, at a crisis center, and as a family therapist. I'm particularly experienced in and passionate about working with trauma in its many forms, and partnering with you to transform harm into what serves you, your beloved relationships, and the world you want to see. I offer individual counseling with youth and adults and relationship counseling with loved ones of all kinds.
(408) 766-2985 View (408) 766-2985
Photo of Kiran C. Easwarachandran, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiran C. Easwarachandran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
(520) 214-5015 View (520) 214-5015
Photo of Emily Ruha Keller, PhD, LPCC, RPT-S, NCC, RYT
Emily Ruha Keller
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, RPT-S, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dublin, CA 94568
I specialize in play therapy, sand tray, and expressive arts and have post-grad training in working with couples, families, children, & groups, I integrate energy psychotherapy, redecision therapy, gestalt, play therapy, art, yoga, & sand tray.
Does your child need help putting their feelings into words? Are they neurodivergent and don't feel like they fit in? Perhaps they are bright, but they don't quite see their gifts. They may feel isolated, alone, or can't help but make negative meaning out of life. I help children heal, grieve, and grow. I help children develop a healthy sense of self and experience their power cooperatively (rather than competitively). I work with children using play therapy to discover their stories and help them change them.
I specialize in play therapy, sand tray, and expressive arts and have post-grad training in working with couples, families, children, & groups, I integrate energy psychotherapy, redecision therapy, gestalt, play therapy, art, yoga, & sand tray.
Does your child need help putting their feelings into words? Are they neurodivergent and don't feel like they fit in? Perhaps they are bright, but they don't quite see their gifts. They may feel isolated, alone, or can't help but make negative meaning out of life. I help children heal, grieve, and grow. I help children develop a healthy sense of self and experience their power cooperatively (rather than competitively). I work with children using play therapy to discover their stories and help them change them.
(984) 204-6920 View (984) 204-6920
Photo of Maria M Mosqueda, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria M Mosqueda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, CA 94538
Therapy modalities include Family Systems, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, CBT, Nutrition for Mental Health, and Expressive Arts.
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Alianza Counseling Group. I have provided mental health services to diverse populations since 2009 in a variety of settings from school-based to residential. I support individuals struggling with the impact of trauma and immigration. Often traumatic and stressful experiences can leave a person feeling ‘different’, anxious, fearful, and hopeless. I am here to support those individuals heal and overcome the impact of traumatic experiences. I also support individuals struggling with self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, stress, and mild to moderate eating and weight disorders.
Therapy modalities include Family Systems, Trauma Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, CBT, Nutrition for Mental Health, and Expressive Arts.
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Alianza Counseling Group. I have provided mental health services to diverse populations since 2009 in a variety of settings from school-based to residential. I support individuals struggling with the impact of trauma and immigration. Often traumatic and stressful experiences can leave a person feeling ‘different’, anxious, fearful, and hopeless. I am here to support those individuals heal and overcome the impact of traumatic experiences. I also support individuals struggling with self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, stress, and mild to moderate eating and weight disorders.
(510) 296-6504 View (510) 296-6504
Photo of Stephanie Pepitone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pepitone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94605
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
My practice is trauma-informed, DBT-informed, feminist, body and sex positive, with a focus on somatic awareness and expressive arts.
Reaching out for support may feel difficult but you are totally worth it. I can provide you with a place where you will be listened to with compassion and understanding. Through our work together I will bring gentle curiosity to the areas of your life you want to explore. This can look like nurturing any tender wounds, fostering belonging for abandoned parts of yourself, embracing acceptance for things you can't change, and building skills needed for constructing the life and relationships you desire.
(341) 895-7197 View (341) 895-7197
Photo of Christopher Patrick White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Patrick White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94502
However, I sometimes use expressive arts, dramatic play, and exploration of body and breath as powerful tools for creating a deeper and more intimate therapeutic encounter.
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma. Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
However, I sometimes use expressive arts, dramatic play, and exploration of body and breath as powerful tools for creating a deeper and more intimate therapeutic encounter.
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma. Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
(510) 878-4334 View (510) 878-4334
Photo of Revi Hope Airborne-Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Revi Hope Airborne-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Leandro, CA 94577
As an expressive arts therapist, we can work creatively, using art, music, movement, or being in nature together.
Therapy is a space you carve out with me to reconnect - with yourself, your goals, your life’s meaning, your passion, your creativity, your spiritual path. We all struggle with difficult things at times; they pull us away from who we want to be, or the path we intend to walk in life. I believe relationships are the most important healers we have in our lives – starting with your relationship with yourself! Extending to all your other important and beloved relationships - with family, friends, community, planet, and spirit. No matter where you are, your journey to self-empowerment and joy begins Right Here. I will be there with you.
As an expressive arts therapist, we can work creatively, using art, music, movement, or being in nature together.
Therapy is a space you carve out with me to reconnect - with yourself, your goals, your life’s meaning, your passion, your creativity, your spiritual path. We all struggle with difficult things at times; they pull us away from who we want to be, or the path we intend to walk in life. I believe relationships are the most important healers we have in our lives – starting with your relationship with yourself! Extending to all your other important and beloved relationships - with family, friends, community, planet, and spirit. No matter where you are, your journey to self-empowerment and joy begins Right Here. I will be there with you.
(510) 422-0908 View (510) 422-0908
Photo of Emily Works, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Works
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, CA 94568
I offer play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts therapy, and family therapy.
I'm here to support you in connecting with your true, authentic self. Across the lifespan, we face struggles that make it difficult to understand ourselves and communicate honestly with our loved ones. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families learn what they need and how to meet those needs. We all need to feel a sense of groundedness, safety, and home within ourselves and our relationships. For those of you who feel lost or like you have fallen behind, I support you in lovingly finding your way.
I offer play therapy, sand tray therapy, expressive arts therapy, and family therapy.
I'm here to support you in connecting with your true, authentic self. Across the lifespan, we face struggles that make it difficult to understand ourselves and communicate honestly with our loved ones. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families learn what they need and how to meet those needs. We all need to feel a sense of groundedness, safety, and home within ourselves and our relationships. For those of you who feel lost or like you have fallen behind, I support you in lovingly finding your way.
(925) 400-7544 View (925) 400-7544
Photo of Kathryn Buys, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newark, CA 94560
I have moved through spirals of grief & big challenges. I've gotten to a place of inner joy & strength that carries me through the really difficult times. I integrate expressive arts & Spiritual practices from all over the world, i.e. guided meditations, sand play, dreamwork, & grounded shadow work. I bring skills from my 25 years as a licensed therapist. I work with women who are ready to reclaim sovereignty and a joyful life! That means a life where internal & external challenges are met with skill, intention, and awareness. In the first 1-3 sessions, we find where your yeses are.
I have moved through spirals of grief & big challenges. I've gotten to a place of inner joy & strength that carries me through the really difficult times. I integrate expressive arts & Spiritual practices from all over the world, i.e. guided meditations, sand play, dreamwork, & grounded shadow work. I bring skills from my 25 years as a licensed therapist. I work with women who are ready to reclaim sovereignty and a joyful life! That means a life where internal & external challenges are met with skill, intention, and awareness. In the first 1-3 sessions, we find where your yeses are.
(559) 345-9622 View (559) 345-9622
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.