Expressive Arts Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Photo of Ebony Marie Ann Williams, MFA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ebony Marie Ann Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I offer a collaborative and eclectic approach that utilizes psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral interventions, expressive arts, mindfulness, and body-oriented practices to support you on your journey.
The lotus flower is the only flower that seeds and blooms simultaneously. The lotus is rooted in muddy water, developing in the midst of thick struggle and obstacles. When the lotus emerges, it cleans the water, transforming its environment. This is where it blooms seeking the light of the sun while sending out seeds of possibility into the world. The lotus symbolizes cause and effect teaching us that each action we take will produce a result and that we contain all the material needed to mend/heal unresolved wounds and traumas.
I offer a collaborative and eclectic approach that utilizes psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral interventions, expressive arts, mindfulness, and body-oriented practices to support you on your journey.
The lotus flower is the only flower that seeds and blooms simultaneously. The lotus is rooted in muddy water, developing in the midst of thick struggle and obstacles. When the lotus emerges, it cleans the water, transforming its environment. This is where it blooms seeking the light of the sun while sending out seeds of possibility into the world. The lotus symbolizes cause and effect teaching us that each action we take will produce a result and that we contain all the material needed to mend/heal unresolved wounds and traumas.
(626) 714-2635 View (626) 714-2635
Photo of Megan M Kain, PsyD, PATP, Psychologist
Megan M Kain
Psychologist, PsyD, PATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
Depending on the particular client or target problem, I often weave somatic, CBT, humanistic, expressive arts, neurobiological, and mindfulness perspectives into the work.
Life demands so much from us on a daily basis. Our bosses want more of our time, our partners are slow to show love but quick to start an argument, and our families always seem to ask for more. Therapy is your space to escape from these demands, to take a breath and realign with who you truly are. I am passionate about helping clients illuminate ways they may enhance their relationships, embrace their true self, and gain the self-confidence needed to thrive in life. For those who utilize psychedelic medicine to facilitate healing, we can explore integration and prep work together.
Depending on the particular client or target problem, I often weave somatic, CBT, humanistic, expressive arts, neurobiological, and mindfulness perspectives into the work.
Life demands so much from us on a daily basis. Our bosses want more of our time, our partners are slow to show love but quick to start an argument, and our families always seem to ask for more. Therapy is your space to escape from these demands, to take a breath and realign with who you truly are. I am passionate about helping clients illuminate ways they may enhance their relationships, embrace their true self, and gain the self-confidence needed to thrive in life. For those who utilize psychedelic medicine to facilitate healing, we can explore integration and prep work together.
(323) 621-3532 View (323) 621-3532
Photo of Melissa J Johnson, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa J Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Our exciting and extensive group therapy program (about 25 group options) includes groups for empowerment, social skills, expressive arts, and more.
Are you looking for ways to help your family m or yourself find zest and build strength for facing life's challenges? Is your family challenged by stress during COVID-19? I and the Institute therapy team work with children, teens, young women, families and gender-expansive youth to build resilience during challenging times like these. Individual, family, and group therapy are provided with fee and payment options to meet varied needs. As CEO and founder, I offer consultation and training to educators, medical and mental health professionals. Our website is full of resources to support social and emotional growth for our times.
Our exciting and extensive group therapy program (about 25 group options) includes groups for empowerment, social skills, expressive arts, and more.
Are you looking for ways to help your family m or yourself find zest and build strength for facing life's challenges? Is your family challenged by stress during COVID-19? I and the Institute therapy team work with children, teens, young women, families and gender-expansive youth to build resilience during challenging times like these. Individual, family, and group therapy are provided with fee and payment options to meet varied needs. As CEO and founder, I offer consultation and training to educators, medical and mental health professionals. Our website is full of resources to support social and emotional growth for our times.
(626) 782-5928 x108 View (626) 782-5928 x108
Photo of Rebecca Bokoch, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Bokoch
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I enjoy working with children from toddlers to teens on a variety of issues, ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion regulation, and relationship issues, etc. I also want to support you in the challenges of parenting. Together we can work to find an approach that fits you and your child. I am trained in systemic therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness. Therapy can nurture healthy growth and development in your life and relationships. The goal is to help you create healthy bonds and coping skills that bring you joy and help during difficult times. Life can be complex - take a step towards comfort and change!
I enjoy working with children from toddlers to teens on a variety of issues, ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion regulation, and relationship issues, etc. I also want to support you in the challenges of parenting. Together we can work to find an approach that fits you and your child. I am trained in systemic therapy, play therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness. Therapy can nurture healthy growth and development in your life and relationships. The goal is to help you create healthy bonds and coping skills that bring you joy and help during difficult times. Life can be complex - take a step towards comfort and change!
(323) 800-4926 View (323) 800-4926
Photo of Anna Marie Rossi, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Marie Rossi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Working with children and teens is my passion! My office is a safe place to explore ways to cope with the stress of school, friendship challenges, peer pressure, parent-teen conflict, and those really intense emotions that can be so overwhelming...sadness, anger, anxiety. During high school teens and their parents often face challenges with communication, trust, respect, and boundary setting...I am here to empower you and your teen to use tools to better understand and connect with each other.
Working with children and teens is my passion! My office is a safe place to explore ways to cope with the stress of school, friendship challenges, peer pressure, parent-teen conflict, and those really intense emotions that can be so overwhelming...sadness, anger, anxiety. During high school teens and their parents often face challenges with communication, trust, respect, and boundary setting...I am here to empower you and your teen to use tools to better understand and connect with each other.
(626) 701-8776 View (626) 701-8776
Photo of Vanessa Fierstadt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Fierstadt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
I am glad you are here to receive the support you need. I provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment to openly share your thoughts and feelings. To support you in making new patterns and positive change. Are you seeking healing after experiencing traumatic life events, stressful relationship patterns or emotional wounds from your past. After experiencing suffering, we can often feel numb and detached. Together we will incorporate healing strategies to support you in finding relief, having an abundant, healthy and safe future as you move forward in your life. Grief Groups at Kintsugi Grief Center : Kintsugigrief.com
(626) 427-6956 View (626) 427-6956
Photo of Amy M Allen, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amy M Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I believe that issues exist on many levels, and so should therapy to create change in truly enduring ways. Understanding the richness of your unique identity requires looking at the intricate tapestry of life through considering various dimensions.
I believe that issues exist on many levels, and so should therapy to create change in truly enduring ways. Understanding the richness of your unique identity requires looking at the intricate tapestry of life through considering various dimensions.
(626) 790-5922 View (626) 790-5922
Photo of Jonna Tamases, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonna Tamases
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you feeling stuck? Weighed down? Do you wake up feeling pressured, anxious, sad, or that you're not measuring up? I want to offer you a pause in the storm. Room for you to just BE, to unburden, rest, and discover or return to your true self. I help with anxiety, chronic people pleasing, conflict avoidance, low self-esteem, depression, relationship issues and communication, and healing from trauma. I also work with adult children of emotionally immature parents; with health issues, cancer, and medical trauma; and I help artists of all kinds build and free up creative expression.
Are you feeling stuck? Weighed down? Do you wake up feeling pressured, anxious, sad, or that you're not measuring up? I want to offer you a pause in the storm. Room for you to just BE, to unburden, rest, and discover or return to your true self. I help with anxiety, chronic people pleasing, conflict avoidance, low self-esteem, depression, relationship issues and communication, and healing from trauma. I also work with adult children of emotionally immature parents; with health issues, cancer, and medical trauma; and I help artists of all kinds build and free up creative expression.
(626) 322-2951 View (626) 322-2951
Photo of Alisa Medders, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alisa Medders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Adolescent and Couples Specialist TRM and EMDR trained- Trauma focused. I currently split my time between states so seeing clients with a hybrid of virtual and in person. My life experience combined with my education has equipped me to serve a variety of people but I love working with teens and 20s. Come with your struggles, whatever they may be: depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, traumatic exp., eating issues, body distortion, sexuality, self-destructive behavior, cultural, Christianity/spirituality and enter into a safe place to receive treatment.
Adolescent and Couples Specialist TRM and EMDR trained- Trauma focused. I currently split my time between states so seeing clients with a hybrid of virtual and in person. My life experience combined with my education has equipped me to serve a variety of people but I love working with teens and 20s. Come with your struggles, whatever they may be: depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, traumatic exp., eating issues, body distortion, sexuality, self-destructive behavior, cultural, Christianity/spirituality and enter into a safe place to receive treatment.
(626) 714-2860 View (626) 714-2860
Photo of Christine Kurata, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Kurata
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
In all phases of life, we face constant change and unexpected circumstances. Even for those who are strongly independent and resilient, life can be overwhelming at times. Therapy can be a space to explore the parts of life that feel uncertain and unmanageable, and identify where you want to go from here. Building the foundation for growth in therapy starts by creating a safe, genuine space where people can feel heard, understood, and valued for the person they are. I believe that people can foster long-term growth through understanding their journey, connecting with their true emotions, and empowering choice with authenticity.
In all phases of life, we face constant change and unexpected circumstances. Even for those who are strongly independent and resilient, life can be overwhelming at times. Therapy can be a space to explore the parts of life that feel uncertain and unmanageable, and identify where you want to go from here. Building the foundation for growth in therapy starts by creating a safe, genuine space where people can feel heard, understood, and valued for the person they are. I believe that people can foster long-term growth through understanding their journey, connecting with their true emotions, and empowering choice with authenticity.
(626) 314-5894 View (626) 314-5894
Photo of Melissa Johnson - Institute for Girls' Development, PhD, Psychologist
Institute for Girls' Development
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Looking for growth, skills, connection and empowerment during challenging times? Our compassionate and expert Institute team is dedicated to empowering girls, women, families, and gender expansive individuals through strength-based services. We offer therapy (individual, group and family), assessment, community education, and professional training. Our caring, experienced, and creative therapists work from various approaches to best meet the unique needs of our clients and their families. Our skill-building workshops and groups inspire children and teens to use their voices and build resilience and leadership.
Looking for growth, skills, connection and empowerment during challenging times? Our compassionate and expert Institute team is dedicated to empowering girls, women, families, and gender expansive individuals through strength-based services. We offer therapy (individual, group and family), assessment, community education, and professional training. Our caring, experienced, and creative therapists work from various approaches to best meet the unique needs of our clients and their families. Our skill-building workshops and groups inspire children and teens to use their voices and build resilience and leadership.
(626) 714-2906 x108 View (626) 714-2906 x108
Photo of Kathleen Keogh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Keogh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Life is hard, even when it's going well. And then there are the times that it isn't going well, and we need to expand our network of care. Therapy is a helpful process in both times of life. I work to connect with you, follow your needs, support you in the growth and transformation you crave, and help you through the discomfort that change can bring. I believe in the closeness of dualities, such as trauma and resilience, crying and laughing, masculine and feminine, and seeking ways to get these dualities into a closer and more symbiotic relationship with one another.
Life is hard, even when it's going well. And then there are the times that it isn't going well, and we need to expand our network of care. Therapy is a helpful process in both times of life. I work to connect with you, follow your needs, support you in the growth and transformation you crave, and help you through the discomfort that change can bring. I believe in the closeness of dualities, such as trauma and resilience, crying and laughing, masculine and feminine, and seeking ways to get these dualities into a closer and more symbiotic relationship with one another.
(323) 849-2443 View (323) 849-2443
Photo of Anita Katyanna Zoroghlian, Lmft , Marriage & Family Therapist
Anita Katyanna Zoroghlian
Marriage & Family Therapist, Lmft
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104  (Online Only)
Needing help, calming your mind, and feeling more peaceful? How about enjoying life again? Or even having more confidence, and knowing what to say at home, at work and with friends? I can help you find your way to calm and peace, and to feel more confident in yourself, and in your relationships. I've been in practicing therapy for over 20 years. I love working with people who are ready to work and grow, and find their way again, or even find yourself for the first time, and to hear your inner voice.
Needing help, calming your mind, and feeling more peaceful? How about enjoying life again? Or even having more confidence, and knowing what to say at home, at work and with friends? I can help you find your way to calm and peace, and to feel more confident in yourself, and in your relationships. I've been in practicing therapy for over 20 years. I love working with people who are ready to work and grow, and find their way again, or even find yourself for the first time, and to hear your inner voice.
(323) 677-2236 View (323) 677-2236
Photo of Sydney Burkhardt Individual And Couples Therapist, MA, AMFT
Sydney Burkhardt Individual And Couples Therapist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
Welcome. I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals and couples in Pasadena. My work includes both teens and adults struggling with the weight of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, unresolved trauma, and existential fear. These challenges may have you feeling “stuck”, repeating past behaviors, feeling unfulfilled, confused, or doubting yourself. Through therapy, we collaboratively increase emotional awareness, process unresolved trauma, heal attachment wounds, challenge unhelpful thoughts and patterns, and strengthen relationship bonds in order to heal and flourish.
Welcome. I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals and couples in Pasadena. My work includes both teens and adults struggling with the weight of overwhelm, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, unresolved trauma, and existential fear. These challenges may have you feeling “stuck”, repeating past behaviors, feeling unfulfilled, confused, or doubting yourself. Through therapy, we collaboratively increase emotional awareness, process unresolved trauma, heal attachment wounds, challenge unhelpful thoughts and patterns, and strengthen relationship bonds in order to heal and flourish.
(323) 970-3913 View (323) 970-3913
Photo of Gloria Avrech, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Avrech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
Waitlist for new clients
Are you searching for inner peace, growth, healing and self-understanding? Seeking a safe place where you can have a caring companion to help you explore who you really are? Tools to assist you with daily life struggles, sorrows and joys?
Are you searching for inner peace, growth, healing and self-understanding? Seeking a safe place where you can have a caring companion to help you explore who you really are? Tools to assist you with daily life struggles, sorrows and joys?
(626) 414-5371 View (626) 414-5371
Photo of Mitra Karimi-Taleghani, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mitra Karimi-Taleghani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
As a multiethnic, multicultural woman of color, child of an immigrant, and trauma-informed associate clinical social worker with a background in gender studies, I approach my work with an intersectional lens. I consider the whole human being as well as the various systems they are part of and the effect these systems have on a person’s life. It is important to me that I am mindful of how my client perceives the world and how the world perceives them. As a trauma-informed yoga instructor, I also consider how emotions can show up somatically.
As a multiethnic, multicultural woman of color, child of an immigrant, and trauma-informed associate clinical social worker with a background in gender studies, I approach my work with an intersectional lens. I consider the whole human being as well as the various systems they are part of and the effect these systems have on a person’s life. It is important to me that I am mindful of how my client perceives the world and how the world perceives them. As a trauma-informed yoga instructor, I also consider how emotions can show up somatically.
(626) 316-6708 View (626) 316-6708
Photo of Dr. Catherine Liang, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Catherine Liang
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
If you've ever been told you're "too much," you're in the right place. I'm a social justice-oriented therapist who fosters growth in women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC to feel empowered to be their truest, most expressive selves. I specialize in non-traditional relationships, including non-monogamy and kink. I use evidence-based, somatic interventions to strengthen your mind-body connection, overcome trauma/CPTSD, and help you build resilience. Using an active, strengths-based approach, I will help you make meaningful change in your life so you can go from surviving to thriving.
If you've ever been told you're "too much," you're in the right place. I'm a social justice-oriented therapist who fosters growth in women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC to feel empowered to be their truest, most expressive selves. I specialize in non-traditional relationships, including non-monogamy and kink. I use evidence-based, somatic interventions to strengthen your mind-body connection, overcome trauma/CPTSD, and help you build resilience. Using an active, strengths-based approach, I will help you make meaningful change in your life so you can go from surviving to thriving.
(747) 260-0758 View (747) 260-0758
Photo of Kate Maher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Maher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My first goal in our depth-centered therapy is to create a secure and collaborative environment that allows you to feel seen, reflected back to, and inspired to curiously encounter the multitudes of your experiences. Through the intimacy of our working together, your feelings get explored within the empowering connection fostered by the therapeutic process. I approach our work with cultural humility and a compassionate framework that supports individuals and couples in all stages of life.
My first goal in our depth-centered therapy is to create a secure and collaborative environment that allows you to feel seen, reflected back to, and inspired to curiously encounter the multitudes of your experiences. Through the intimacy of our working together, your feelings get explored within the empowering connection fostered by the therapeutic process. I approach our work with cultural humility and a compassionate framework that supports individuals and couples in all stages of life.
(213) 267-7039 View (213) 267-7039
Photo of Connie Vaillancourt - Connie V Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connie V Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107
Humorist, Mark Twain once wrote, "I've had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened." Left unchecked, fear-based thinking shapes reality and impedes potential and growth. The unknown and mixed messages surrounding the pandemic has reinforced this mindset and may have left you with perpetual feelings of sadness, uncertainty and doubt. The first step of our journey together is establishing a relationship built upon trust, respect, and safety. Through shared conversation, mindfulness, and self-regulating techniques, we create a bond that honors your unique story and circumstance.
Humorist, Mark Twain once wrote, "I've had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened." Left unchecked, fear-based thinking shapes reality and impedes potential and growth. The unknown and mixed messages surrounding the pandemic has reinforced this mindset and may have left you with perpetual feelings of sadness, uncertainty and doubt. The first step of our journey together is establishing a relationship built upon trust, respect, and safety. Through shared conversation, mindfulness, and self-regulating techniques, we create a bond that honors your unique story and circumstance.
(626) 790-5679 View (626) 790-5679
Photo of Brian J Benjamin, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian J Benjamin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing psychological services to children and adolescents. These include neuropsychological assessment and psychotherapy. Assessments can be invaluable tools that provide diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, and the basis for academic accommodations. The therapeutic interventions I provide to young clients can be used to address a range of common challenges including, but not limited to emotional dysregulation and behavior problems. Based on the client, therapy may take various forms and could entail a talk or play-based approach. I regularly integrate parent or family sessions when appropriate.
I specialize in providing psychological services to children and adolescents. These include neuropsychological assessment and psychotherapy. Assessments can be invaluable tools that provide diagnostic clarification, treatment recommendations, and the basis for academic accommodations. The therapeutic interventions I provide to young clients can be used to address a range of common challenges including, but not limited to emotional dysregulation and behavior problems. Based on the client, therapy may take various forms and could entail a talk or play-based approach. I regularly integrate parent or family sessions when appropriate.
(626) 714-2875 View (626) 714-2875
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.