Art Therapy in Westminster, CO

Photo of Vitalcare Counseling - VitalCare Counseling, LCSW, LPC, R-ATR, RPT, R-DMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
VitalCare Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, R-ATR, RPT, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
Just a few of them; play, art or sand tray therapy, families, teens, aging adults, those working through loss or life transitions and skills-based groups.
VitalCare offers a diverse group of clinicians ready to help you move toward growth, balance, and fulfillment. Therapists tailor their approach to your short and long-term goals. They will help you find your strengths and use them to work with the obstacles, challenges, pain, and fear that may have led you to therapy. To learn more about VitalCare and our therapists, visit our website - https://vitalcare.us/meet-the-team/
Just a few of them; play, art or sand tray therapy, families, teens, aging adults, those working through loss or life transitions and skills-based groups.
VitalCare offers a diverse group of clinicians ready to help you move toward growth, balance, and fulfillment. Therapists tailor their approach to your short and long-term goals. They will help you find your strengths and use them to work with the obstacles, challenges, pain, and fear that may have led you to therapy. To learn more about VitalCare and our therapists, visit our website - https://vitalcare.us/meet-the-team/
(720) 637-4953 View (720) 637-4953
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C., LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9745 View (719) 394-9745
Photo of Shelby Opel, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Opel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
I am committed to providing personalized, client-centered care that promotes healing, growth, and empowerment. Drawing on my background in Social Work, I specialize in unpacking family dynamics and delivering trauma-informed support. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs. Whether it's through animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, or art therapy, my goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment for your healing journey.
I am committed to providing personalized, client-centered care that promotes healing, growth, and empowerment. Drawing on my background in Social Work, I specialize in unpacking family dynamics and delivering trauma-informed support. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs. Whether it's through animal-assisted therapy, play therapy, or art therapy, my goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment for your healing journey.
(720) 741-6750 View (720) 741-6750
Photo of Marta Jasinska, LPC
Marta Jasinska
LPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
I use both art and talk therapy to treat children, adolescents, adults and families with relational struggles, mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, grief and more. I am an art therapist, often inviting my clients to drop into their body in order to move further from the busy mind. I believe that growth comes from the commitment to the therapeutic process. In family work I specialize in high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. My focus is on helping parents support their children best in the process of divorce and post divorce reality.
I use both art and talk therapy to treat children, adolescents, adults and families with relational struggles, mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, grief and more. I am an art therapist, often inviting my clients to drop into their body in order to move further from the busy mind. I believe that growth comes from the commitment to the therapeutic process. In family work I specialize in high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. My focus is on helping parents support their children best in the process of divorce and post divorce reality.
(720) 703-9871 View (720) 703-9871
Photo of Elise Colley, MA, ATR, Registered Psychotherapist
Elise Colley
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80031
Art Therapy is especially successful for clients suffering from trauma, but you do not have to make art in our sessions.
Finding a therapist is not always easy, but it is an important step in a journey towards healing. We live in a world where there is a tendency to praise each other for accomplishing things without help, but when it comes to mental health no one should have to feel alone. As an art therapist, I provide the opportunity to work with art as a form of expression, which can deepen the therapeutic process beyond that of just talk-therapy. You do not need any background in art, experience using art materials, or even consider yourself "artistic" in order to do art therapy.
Art Therapy is especially successful for clients suffering from trauma, but you do not have to make art in our sessions.
Finding a therapist is not always easy, but it is an important step in a journey towards healing. We live in a world where there is a tendency to praise each other for accomplishing things without help, but when it comes to mental health no one should have to feel alone. As an art therapist, I provide the opportunity to work with art as a form of expression, which can deepen the therapeutic process beyond that of just talk-therapy. You do not need any background in art, experience using art materials, or even consider yourself "artistic" in order to do art therapy.
(720) 743-6934 View (720) 743-6934
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, PC, LPC, LMFT, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(720) 597-7989 View (720) 597-7989
Photo of Pauline Tapia - The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver, LCSW, LPC, MT-BC, LMT, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, MT-BC, LMT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
We provide INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY counseling, expressive therapy (PLAY, ART, MUSIC), pediatric MASSAGE therapy, and APPLIED BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS.
The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver, LLC specializes in providing therapeutic support to children, adolescents and families in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. We focus on helping families identify goals to improve their quality of life and make sustainable change. At The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver, we support the CLLI, CES, SLS & CHRP Waivers along with Medicaid/CHP+ and Anthem.
We provide INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY counseling, expressive therapy (PLAY, ART, MUSIC), pediatric MASSAGE therapy, and APPLIED BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS.
The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver, LLC specializes in providing therapeutic support to children, adolescents and families in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. We focus on helping families identify goals to improve their quality of life and make sustainable change. At The Child and Family Therapy Center of Denver, we support the CLLI, CES, SLS & CHRP Waivers along with Medicaid/CHP+ and Anthem.
(303) 809-3393 View (303) 809-3393
Photo of Jennifer Santopietro - KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, PC, Licensed Professional Counselor
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, PC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80031
Waitlist for new clients
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
Currently a waitlist in CO Springs. Hiring Soon! KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists utilize many effective modalities including art and dance therapy, play therapy, EMDR therapy, and engaging talk therapy.
Currently a waitlist in CO Springs. Hiring Soon! KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9821 View (719) 394-9821
Photo of Erika Molina Poling, LCPC, ATR, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Molina Poling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80030
Sometimes words don't cut it. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking a safe space to explore your inner world? Art therapy uses tools that make traditional talk therapy an embodied experience. If you're wondering about what this actually looks like, the images on my profile illustrate how art therapy offers a safe space to dive deep. The heart of my practice is believing people are their own experts. You are the ONLY you with your unique values, experiences, routines, heartaches, and desires. I want you to feel seen, foster a deeper understanding of your journey, and find answers and solace through your own innate intuition.
Sometimes words don't cut it. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or seeking a safe space to explore your inner world? Art therapy uses tools that make traditional talk therapy an embodied experience. If you're wondering about what this actually looks like, the images on my profile illustrate how art therapy offers a safe space to dive deep. The heart of my practice is believing people are their own experts. You are the ONLY you with your unique values, experiences, routines, heartaches, and desires. I want you to feel seen, foster a deeper understanding of your journey, and find answers and solace through your own innate intuition.
(720) 552-5854 View (720) 552-5854
Photo of Chelsie P Graybill, MA
Chelsie P Graybill
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
I love making art.
Anyone who is at the point of accepting help has an innate wisdom into their own healing. By the time you find me, I know you are ready to change. I believe you know best and I will be here to guide you in the direction you want to go. I work with clients who are struggling with major life transitions, anxiety/perfectionism, parenting/family struggles, spirituality, feminine awakening, self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I work with adults and children, but in different capacities. For minors, I provide 50-minute art therapy sessions. For adults, I provide a combination of coaching and art therapy, each session is 1-2 hrs.
I love making art.
Anyone who is at the point of accepting help has an innate wisdom into their own healing. By the time you find me, I know you are ready to change. I believe you know best and I will be here to guide you in the direction you want to go. I work with clients who are struggling with major life transitions, anxiety/perfectionism, parenting/family struggles, spirituality, feminine awakening, self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I work with adults and children, but in different capacities. For minors, I provide 50-minute art therapy sessions. For adults, I provide a combination of coaching and art therapy, each session is 1-2 hrs.
(303) 647-4161 View (303) 647-4161
Photo of Jialin Chu, LPC Intern
Jialin Chu
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80021
While engaging with children, I find myself immersed in joy and gratitude, even simply staying beside them silently, through making art, hiking in nature, and eating tangerines grounded in the practice of mindfulness.
I am grateful you are embarking on this journey! Growing up as an artist and spending most of my early play time in nature, I learned to embody nature through making art. I describe myself as a culturally attentive, gentle, and contemplative therapist with the intention of helping you to fully uncover your authentic self. Using a combination of play, art-making, and somatic-based therapy, I aim to help young children and adolescents express and release parts of themselves more freely.
While engaging with children, I find myself immersed in joy and gratitude, even simply staying beside them silently, through making art, hiking in nature, and eating tangerines grounded in the practice of mindfulness.
I am grateful you are embarking on this journey! Growing up as an artist and spending most of my early play time in nature, I learned to embody nature through making art. I describe myself as a culturally attentive, gentle, and contemplative therapist with the intention of helping you to fully uncover your authentic self. Using a combination of play, art-making, and somatic-based therapy, I aim to help young children and adolescents express and release parts of themselves more freely.
(833) 427-2986 View (833) 427-2986
Photo of Kerri Hernandez, MA, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kerri Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80021
I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, and EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner. With a strong commitment to holistic healing and a passion for helping people thrive, I am here to support you on your journey to wellness and happiness. Graduating from Naropa University with a degree in Transpersonal Art Therapy, I embarked on a journey to combine traditional counseling techniques with the transformative power of art therapy.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, and EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner. With a strong commitment to holistic healing and a passion for helping people thrive, I am here to support you on your journey to wellness and happiness. Graduating from Naropa University with a degree in Transpersonal Art Therapy, I embarked on a journey to combine traditional counseling techniques with the transformative power of art therapy.
(720) 743-5423 View (720) 743-5423
Photo of Graciela Yue Yang Gimpel, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Graciela Yue Yang Gimpel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80021
Hi! I'm Graciela. I would describe my therapeutic approach as collaborative and flexible. I love catering my approach to your unique interests. Our work might include creating art, discussing emotions, writing, watching a video, playing games, and anything else you can dream up. My goal is to be training wheels on your bike and support and guide you until you are able to "ride" by yourself. I hope to provide a safe and authentic space for my clients to explore and process their emotions and thoughts, express themselves, and heal from past experiences.
Hi! I'm Graciela. I would describe my therapeutic approach as collaborative and flexible. I love catering my approach to your unique interests. Our work might include creating art, discussing emotions, writing, watching a video, playing games, and anything else you can dream up. My goal is to be training wheels on your bike and support and guide you until you are able to "ride" by yourself. I hope to provide a safe and authentic space for my clients to explore and process their emotions and thoughts, express themselves, and heal from past experiences.
(412) 990-2091 View (412) 990-2091
Photo of Rachel Marie Bollinger - Rachel Bollinger Counseling, LLC., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Bollinger Counseling, LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westminster, CO 80020
Through the use of art and other creative activities I am able to create a safe environment for teens, young adults and individuals to explore and share feelings they might not have consciously known existed by just talking.
"We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to."-Brene Brown. I whole heartedly believe that healing occurs when we invite others to step into our story and walk along side us in times of struggle, hurt, and unknown. Because of this, I consider it an honor and privilege to be able to join you in your search for healing and wholeness. Although I am equipped to work with individuals in any stage of life I am especially passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anything from anxiety and depression to trauma and self discovery.
Through the use of art and other creative activities I am able to create a safe environment for teens, young adults and individuals to explore and share feelings they might not have consciously known existed by just talking.
"We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to."-Brene Brown. I whole heartedly believe that healing occurs when we invite others to step into our story and walk along side us in times of struggle, hurt, and unknown. Because of this, I consider it an honor and privilege to be able to join you in your search for healing and wholeness. Although I am equipped to work with individuals in any stage of life I am especially passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults struggling with anything from anxiety and depression to trauma and self discovery.
(720) 586-4154 View (720) 586-4154
Photo of Alanna J Bell, MA, LPC, ACCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alanna J Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACCH
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80023
Waitlist for new clients
I have enjoyed being a Professional Counselor, Transformational Life Coach and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist for over 20 years. I specialize in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Intuitive Art Therapy, and energy healing such as Reiki. My specialty is to help individuals through the many transitions and challenges in our personal growth process, helping one to attain the highlest level of peace, confidence and joy in the journey of life. I have extensive experience in the fields of not only mental health, but also in a number of alternative approaches to helping individuals succeed in work, relationships and everyday life.
I have enjoyed being a Professional Counselor, Transformational Life Coach and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist for over 20 years. I specialize in Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Intuitive Art Therapy, and energy healing such as Reiki. My specialty is to help individuals through the many transitions and challenges in our personal growth process, helping one to attain the highlest level of peace, confidence and joy in the journey of life. I have extensive experience in the fields of not only mental health, but also in a number of alternative approaches to helping individuals succeed in work, relationships and everyday life.
(970) 718-9189 View (970) 718-9189
Photo of Muhammad Zeeshan
Muhammad Zeeshan
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80003
My expertise includes working with kids, teenagers and their families in such a manner that helps them cope with issues of their daily life I fee content and happy working with them. I provide early intervention; restoring, rehabilitating, and supporting the effect of the child's diagnosis while reestablishing daily functioning skills. During sessions I believe in utilizing a person centered approach, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, play therapy, art and crafts, outdoors community integrations and usage of technology (games, internet) in a way that is productive for individuals.
My expertise includes working with kids, teenagers and their families in such a manner that helps them cope with issues of their daily life I fee content and happy working with them. I provide early intervention; restoring, rehabilitating, and supporting the effect of the child's diagnosis while reestablishing daily functioning skills. During sessions I believe in utilizing a person centered approach, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, play therapy, art and crafts, outdoors community integrations and usage of technology (games, internet) in a way that is productive for individuals.
(720) 796-8829 View (720) 796-8829
Photo of Mary Evans, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80030
Are you looking for an experienced therapist to walk with you on your journey to creating your best life? Are you feeling a bit scared about talking with a therapist? If so, Mary understands. Mary can help you live a life you love by being a sounding board, a resource, and an advocate as you unravel your concerns and identify next steps to creating your best life. Mary serves individuals and couples age 16 and older via in-person or telehealth sessions. She specializes in addiction, anxiety, depression, food-related issues, life transitions, and grief/loss. Mary provides a safe space to breathe as she listens and provides support.
Are you looking for an experienced therapist to walk with you on your journey to creating your best life? Are you feeling a bit scared about talking with a therapist? If so, Mary understands. Mary can help you live a life you love by being a sounding board, a resource, and an advocate as you unravel your concerns and identify next steps to creating your best life. Mary serves individuals and couples age 16 and older via in-person or telehealth sessions. She specializes in addiction, anxiety, depression, food-related issues, life transitions, and grief/loss. Mary provides a safe space to breathe as she listens and provides support.
(720) 706-3166 View (720) 706-3166
Photo of Jenifer Candelas - Thriveworks, PMHNP, LPC, PsyD, APRN, LCSW, Counselor
Thriveworks
Counselor, PMHNP, LPC, PsyD, APRN, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Westminster, CO 80031
We have a group of 22 great Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists that can see you tomorrow! Our counselors offer a wide range of specialties, and therapeutic styles. Thriveworks believes that the best time to seek counseling is right now. For this reason, we decided that our offices would not operate on a waiting list. Instead, we do the best we can to get you scheduled in the next 24 hours.
We have a group of 22 great Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists that can see you tomorrow! Our counselors offer a wide range of specialties, and therapeutic styles. Thriveworks believes that the best time to seek counseling is right now. For this reason, we decided that our offices would not operate on a waiting list. Instead, we do the best we can to get you scheduled in the next 24 hours.
(720) 862-3220 View (720) 862-3220
Photo of Cristina Murphy - Counseling For You Colorado, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling For You Colorado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80234
Counseling For You Colorado is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
Counseling For You Colorado is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
(720) 864-0189 View (720) 864-0189
Photo of Kelly Ryan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westminster, CO 80030  (Online Only)
I am a passionate clinician who is dedicated to aiding clients persevere through life's challenges in a Client Centered, Solution Focused manner. I hold both a Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work with a clinical focus. I graduated Summa Cum Laude when earning my Masters degree in 2011 from Barry University in Miami, FL. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focused on mental health therapy and treating co-occuring disorders. I also utilize DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative, REBT, and Motivational Interviewing as an eclectic mix tailoring each intervention towards my clients needs and goals.
I am a passionate clinician who is dedicated to aiding clients persevere through life's challenges in a Client Centered, Solution Focused manner. I hold both a Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work with a clinical focus. I graduated Summa Cum Laude when earning my Masters degree in 2011 from Barry University in Miami, FL. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focused on mental health therapy and treating co-occuring disorders. I also utilize DBT, CBT, ACT, Narrative, REBT, and Motivational Interviewing as an eclectic mix tailoring each intervention towards my clients needs and goals.
(720) 868-9376 View (720) 868-9376

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.