Expressive Arts Therapists in San Anselmo, CA

Photo of Jessica Chesbro, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Chesbro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
I specialize in Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA); using art, music, role-play, and creativity to assist clients in deepening their understanding of themselves.
I believe every person and family is unique and there are many ways to raise a healthy child. I want to honor the strengths within you and your family and offer the tools and support to help your child and family thrive. Through a trauma-informed lens, I work extensively with youth, parents, and families on life transitions, healthy communication, and processing/ healing from grief or abuse.
(510) 405-3206 View (510) 405-3206
Photo of Sandra Hirschfield, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Hirschfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with extensive experience over the past twenty years to provide comprehensive clinical support including assessment and therapeutic strategies to reduce symptoms related to environmental stress and mental health issues. Children, adolescents and adults who struggle with emotional regulation learn to develop coping strategies when experiencing distressing situations that impacts their quality of life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California with extensive experience over the past twenty years to provide comprehensive clinical support including assessment and therapeutic strategies to reduce symptoms related to environmental stress and mental health issues. Children, adolescents and adults who struggle with emotional regulation learn to develop coping strategies when experiencing distressing situations that impacts their quality of life.
(415) 534-4184 View (415) 534-4184
Photo of Hilary Beech, PhD, MBA, MSEE, Psychologist
Hilary Beech
Psychologist, PhD, MBA, MSEE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Anselmo, CA 94979  (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
Photo of Dyer Passano-Manning, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dyer Passano-Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
Are you looking for a way through a challenging time? In working with you, I offer a supportive, collaborative approach. I help people find their own strengths and clarity. Deep listening is important to find your individual needs. Providing useful tools for change, is the focus of my work. I'm interested in facilitating a natural way toward transformation. For Parents: Raising teens can be very challenging work. There are times when a parent or an adolescent needs extra support to get through difficult times. I feel at ease working with young people. I've been in private practice for 18 years.
Are you looking for a way through a challenging time? In working with you, I offer a supportive, collaborative approach. I help people find their own strengths and clarity. Deep listening is important to find your individual needs. Providing useful tools for change, is the focus of my work. I'm interested in facilitating a natural way toward transformation. For Parents: Raising teens can be very challenging work. There are times when a parent or an adolescent needs extra support to get through difficult times. I feel at ease working with young people. I've been in private practice for 18 years.
(415) 323-0989 View (415) 323-0989
Photo of Kathleen Ries, LMFT, MS, MPH, RD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Ries
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MPH, RD
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
"​Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Mary Anne Radmacher My ideal client is having issues with past traumas, life transitions and troubles. They want to see their life get easier and more joyful. We can figure out therapeutically what's needed and negotiate the number of sessions. With my own life and professional experiences, I bring a wealth of treatment options and resources. I offer a free initial phone (call 15-20 minutes) to help you determine if I'm the therapist for your needs at this time. Sessions are virtual due to COVID-19.
"​Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Mary Anne Radmacher My ideal client is having issues with past traumas, life transitions and troubles. They want to see their life get easier and more joyful. We can figure out therapeutically what's needed and negotiate the number of sessions. With my own life and professional experiences, I bring a wealth of treatment options and resources. I offer a free initial phone (call 15-20 minutes) to help you determine if I'm the therapist for your needs at this time. Sessions are virtual due to COVID-19.
(628) 227-6489 View (628) 227-6489
Photo of Jessica Potter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Potter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I am versatile in my clinical experience with clients of different ages and cultures. I have particular training in working with individuals struggling with trauma and the many symptoms related to trauma. I also have many years of experience working with those who struggle with addictions. I enjoy providing support groups for adults and teenagers. I have worked in schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice. I also have experience in suicide prevention work with teenagers and young adults.
I am versatile in my clinical experience with clients of different ages and cultures. I have particular training in working with individuals struggling with trauma and the many symptoms related to trauma. I also have many years of experience working with those who struggle with addictions. I enjoy providing support groups for adults and teenagers. I have worked in schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice. I also have experience in suicide prevention work with teenagers and young adults.
(415) 689-1017 View (415) 689-1017
Photo of Dr. Denise Renye, MEd, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Denise Renye
Psychologist, MEd, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
40 Endorsed
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I work with people who are ready to delve into the depths of their sexuality. You might be wrestling with issues such as intimacy struggles, sexual concerns, or challenges in communication within your relationships. I create a safe and accepting space where you can freely explore your desires, gain clarity on your needs, and develop the tools to navigate your sexual journey confidently. Your ultimate goal is to experience a deeper sense of satisfaction, connection, and fulfillment in your sexual and relational experiences, paving the way for a more vibrant and joyful life. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery.
I work with people who are ready to delve into the depths of their sexuality. You might be wrestling with issues such as intimacy struggles, sexual concerns, or challenges in communication within your relationships. I create a safe and accepting space where you can freely explore your desires, gain clarity on your needs, and develop the tools to navigate your sexual journey confidently. Your ultimate goal is to experience a deeper sense of satisfaction, connection, and fulfillment in your sexual and relational experiences, paving the way for a more vibrant and joyful life. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery.
(628) 600-1755 View (628) 600-1755
Photo of Gail Danchig, MA, MFT , REAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail Danchig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT , REAT
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
I offer a warm, non-judgmental and compassionate space to explore your issues. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship or family issues, self-doubt or negative thinking, or going through a life transition. You may feel a longing for greater meaning and joy, courage to make a change, or more connection to others. Unresolved conflicts or trauma from the past may be getting in the way of creating a more fulfilled life. I have a client-centered, integrative approach, influenced by contemplative practices and mindfulness, creative expression, the healing power of nature, and the science of well-being.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental and compassionate space to explore your issues. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, relationship or family issues, self-doubt or negative thinking, or going through a life transition. You may feel a longing for greater meaning and joy, courage to make a change, or more connection to others. Unresolved conflicts or trauma from the past may be getting in the way of creating a more fulfilled life. I have a client-centered, integrative approach, influenced by contemplative practices and mindfulness, creative expression, the healing power of nature, and the science of well-being.
(628) 262-8659 View (628) 262-8659
Photo of Carter Bostwick, AMFT, MA, BFA
Carter Bostwick
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MA, BFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Anselmo, CA 94960
Welcome, I'm Carter, a somatic therapist passionate about empowering people to discover their distinct voices. Through a holistic approach centered on body awareness and mindful exploration, I create a safe, sensory-sensitive space. Guiding clients in understanding how their bodies hold and express emotions, we uncover pathways to self-expression and healing. Sometimes it can be hard to sift through the noise of our world. By slowing down and tuning into our bodies we can illuminate the parts of ourselves that yearn to be seen and heard. I will support you to identify and honor your values, strengthening your authentic voice.
Welcome, I'm Carter, a somatic therapist passionate about empowering people to discover their distinct voices. Through a holistic approach centered on body awareness and mindful exploration, I create a safe, sensory-sensitive space. Guiding clients in understanding how their bodies hold and express emotions, we uncover pathways to self-expression and healing. Sometimes it can be hard to sift through the noise of our world. By slowing down and tuning into our bodies we can illuminate the parts of ourselves that yearn to be seen and heard. I will support you to identify and honor your values, strengthening your authentic voice.
(415) 997-6335 View (415) 997-6335
Photo of Amy Tredinnick, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Tredinnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
I welcome individuals and partners of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work, with specific interest and experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief work, life transitions and existential inquiries. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together.
I welcome individuals and partners of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work, with specific interest and experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief work, life transitions and existential inquiries. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together.
(415) 594-4313 View (415) 594-4313

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Miriam Rubino, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Miriam Rubino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
For children, I use Play & Expressive Arts Therapy to support their healthy development.
I help clients improve relationships, resolve grief, address effects of trauma, manage anxiety and depressive symptoms, increase self-esteem, fostering resilience and healthy coping skills, so they experience more satisfaction in life, within themselves and with others. I compassionately challenge you, support you to increase insight and action in your journey towards creating a more balanced life. My style is mindful, embodied and playful, spiritual yet grounded. My clients like "my realness". My approach is integrative and suited for adults, children and the young-at-heart.
For children, I use Play & Expressive Arts Therapy to support their healthy development.
I help clients improve relationships, resolve grief, address effects of trauma, manage anxiety and depressive symptoms, increase self-esteem, fostering resilience and healthy coping skills, so they experience more satisfaction in life, within themselves and with others. I compassionately challenge you, support you to increase insight and action in your journey towards creating a more balanced life. My style is mindful, embodied and playful, spiritual yet grounded. My clients like "my realness". My approach is integrative and suited for adults, children and the young-at-heart.
(415) 446-1455 View (415) 446-1455
Photo of Kelsey Meredith Wunderle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey Meredith Wunderle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I use an integrative trauma informed approach that is based in knowledge of the body and brain, and is informed by internal family systems therapy, expressive arts, somatics and hypnotherapy.
I offer a space where all parts of you are welcomed and deeply listened to. In a complex and challenging world, I have the tools to support you in compassionately engaging your inner work and cultivating more well being. If you are struggling with anxiety, the impacts of trauma, or seeking change and growth in your relationships and life, I can help you resource yourself in meeting difficulties. Together we can discover the sources of imbalance and address their root causes while building new skills and tools.
I use an integrative trauma informed approach that is based in knowledge of the body and brain, and is informed by internal family systems therapy, expressive arts, somatics and hypnotherapy.
I offer a space where all parts of you are welcomed and deeply listened to. In a complex and challenging world, I have the tools to support you in compassionately engaging your inner work and cultivating more well being. If you are struggling with anxiety, the impacts of trauma, or seeking change and growth in your relationships and life, I can help you resource yourself in meeting difficulties. Together we can discover the sources of imbalance and address their root causes while building new skills and tools.
(415) 449-8159 View (415) 449-8159
Photo of Anneli Richards - Family Matters Of Marin, MA, MFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
We use the Expressive Arts, IFS, Gestalt, EFT, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and EMDR when working with adolescents, adults, and families.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
We use the Expressive Arts, IFS, Gestalt, EFT, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and EMDR when working with adolescents, adults, and families.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Michelle Baumgartner, LCSW, OTR/L, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Baumgartner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, OTR/L
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
The work may also utilize non-verbal modalities such as guided imagery, light trance states, or the expressive arts to increase self awareness and inner guidance.
Are life's challenges leaving you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Highly skilled in helping clients navigate and integrate the experience of having a chronic/serious health condition, or the loss of a loved one. Help resolving difficult or early life experiences that are affecting current relationships. Enjoy supporting women as they transition: A young adult woman finding her authentic, empowered self. A pregnant/postpartum woman managing her changing moods, preparing for this rite of passage, and adjusting to a new role. A perimenopausal/menopausal woman examining her life, finding her voice, and taking new risks.
The work may also utilize non-verbal modalities such as guided imagery, light trance states, or the expressive arts to increase self awareness and inner guidance.
Are life's challenges leaving you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Highly skilled in helping clients navigate and integrate the experience of having a chronic/serious health condition, or the loss of a loved one. Help resolving difficult or early life experiences that are affecting current relationships. Enjoy supporting women as they transition: A young adult woman finding her authentic, empowered self. A pregnant/postpartum woman managing her changing moods, preparing for this rite of passage, and adjusting to a new role. A perimenopausal/menopausal woman examining her life, finding her voice, and taking new risks.
(415) 969-4170 View (415) 969-4170
Photo of Michael J. Mesmer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael J. Mesmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Larkspur, CA 94939
Alternative therapies, such as narrative and the expressive arts, meditation and body-oriented therapy, offer positive, solution-focused assistance to clients for reaching their goals in unique ways.
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
Alternative therapies, such as narrative and the expressive arts, meditation and body-oriented therapy, offer positive, solution-focused assistance to clients for reaching their goals in unique ways.
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
(458) 231-8560 View (458) 231-8560
Photo of Starla Dean - Buddhist Therapy Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Buddhist Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
(415) 849-4108 View (415) 849-4108
Photo of Kia Nishimine, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kia Nishimine
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Fairfax, CA 94930
Hi! I have two sliding scale spots open for teens/kids in person in SF or virtually. I hold space for young people to express and explore their feelings (sadness and grief, anger and frustration, fear and anxiety, joy and excitement...), experiences, and identities in ways that feel safe and real. Beyond talk therapy, our sessions can include artistic expression, movement, and play. I love seeing my clients strengthen self-confidence, discover healthier ways of emotional expression, and build relational skills through our work together.
Hi! I have two sliding scale spots open for teens/kids in person in SF or virtually. I hold space for young people to express and explore their feelings (sadness and grief, anger and frustration, fear and anxiety, joy and excitement...), experiences, and identities in ways that feel safe and real. Beyond talk therapy, our sessions can include artistic expression, movement, and play. I love seeing my clients strengthen self-confidence, discover healthier ways of emotional expression, and build relational skills through our work together.
(415) 212-9502 View (415) 212-9502
Photo of Rachael Vaughan, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael Vaughan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I have an engaged, relational approach, grounded in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I believe the goal of therapy is to realistically become who you truly are--not to fix you, or tell you how to be. I'm an eco-psychologist, a feminist therapist, and a Jungian. If you work with me, we'll look at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. Where we find traumas, disturbing memories, negative beliefs and uncomfortable feelings, we can use a variety of methods to loosen then, learn from them and heal them, including EMDR. I'm LGBTQII-positive.
I have an engaged, relational approach, grounded in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I believe the goal of therapy is to realistically become who you truly are--not to fix you, or tell you how to be. I'm an eco-psychologist, a feminist therapist, and a Jungian. If you work with me, we'll look at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. Where we find traumas, disturbing memories, negative beliefs and uncomfortable feelings, we can use a variety of methods to loosen then, learn from them and heal them, including EMDR. I'm LGBTQII-positive.
(415) 799-3702 View (415) 799-3702
Photo of Raven Nalika Rose, MA, LMFT, CEAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raven Nalika Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, CA 94978  (Online Only)
Do you feel awkward in social and professional situations? Are you afraid of conflict or disappointing others? Do you generally feel overwhelmed? You are tired of feeling exhausted. Feeling like you are trying to catch up with life is infuriating. I get it. I assist ADHD'ers and Highly Sensitive Folks dealing with anxiety and grief.
Do you feel awkward in social and professional situations? Are you afraid of conflict or disappointing others? Do you generally feel overwhelmed? You are tired of feeling exhausted. Feeling like you are trying to catch up with life is infuriating. I get it. I assist ADHD'ers and Highly Sensitive Folks dealing with anxiety and grief.
(415) 842-4521 View (415) 842-4521
Photo of Elvira Kitrar, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elvira Kitrar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94913  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
(415) 534-9620 View (415) 534-9620

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.