Expressive Arts Therapists in Norwich, CT

Photo of Elizabeth Kramer, MEd, MA, CAGS, LPC, RYT 200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, CAGS, LPC, RYT 200
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
I take particular interest in Expressive Arts, a holistic therapeutic process in which art is used to express emotions.
I am Holistic Counselor and use an holistic approach to psychotherapy which targets the mind, body and spirit. I combine traditional therapies with spiritual and innovative practices in a safe supportive environment. I use a person-centered process to help guide clients toward healing and self-fulfillment. My focus is to assist clients with personal self-growth, self confidence, mid-life challenges and relationship issues.
I take particular interest in Expressive Arts, a holistic therapeutic process in which art is used to express emotions.
I am Holistic Counselor and use an holistic approach to psychotherapy which targets the mind, body and spirit. I combine traditional therapies with spiritual and innovative practices in a safe supportive environment. I use a person-centered process to help guide clients toward healing and self-fulfillment. My focus is to assist clients with personal self-growth, self confidence, mid-life challenges and relationship issues.
(860) 792-5820 View (860) 792-5820
Photo of Marcelyn Dallis-Jones, LPC, REAT, MA, MAE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcelyn Dallis-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, REAT, MA, MAE
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
I have had the honor of helping clients work through life challenges for over 20 years. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I am able to offer support using the arts as part of the psychotherapy process. My approach is humanistic, person-centered and holistic. Through this creative and non-threatening process, clients are able to reach their personal goals. I believe we are all born with intrinsic self-knowledge. Together we can reconnect to this inner wisdom and kindle new and profound ways to move through the world.
I have had the honor of helping clients work through life challenges for over 20 years. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist, I am able to offer support using the arts as part of the psychotherapy process. My approach is humanistic, person-centered and holistic. Through this creative and non-threatening process, clients are able to reach their personal goals. I believe we are all born with intrinsic self-knowledge. Together we can reconnect to this inner wisdom and kindle new and profound ways to move through the world.
(860) 785-9154 View (860) 785-9154
Photo of Yasmine Sasannejad, ATR-BC, LMHC, LPC, LCAT, Counselor
Yasmine Sasannejad
Counselor, ATR-BC, LMHC, LPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
I’m an Art Therapist working with adults facing challenges with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, transitions, parenting and more. My practice blends traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, and the expressive arts to support and empower my clients. I use a gentle and authentic approach to therapy, and believe in meeting each person where they are. I am Queer and ND-affirming, and I have a special interest in supporting clients through burnout, including parents, caregivers and other helping professionals, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
I’m an Art Therapist working with adults facing challenges with depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, transitions, parenting and more. My practice blends traditional talk therapy, mindfulness, and the expressive arts to support and empower my clients. I use a gentle and authentic approach to therapy, and believe in meeting each person where they are. I am Queer and ND-affirming, and I have a special interest in supporting clients through burnout, including parents, caregivers and other helping professionals, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
(413) 203-4678 View (413) 203-4678
Photo of Stacey Leigh Lefever - Vireo Vita Therapy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vireo Vita Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
We offer every client the opportunity to develop their sense of self-worth, build a greater alignment with their true identity, and move them toward finding purpose and meaning in their own lives. We believe that every person, no matter their mental health condition, feels contented when they have begun their wellness journey; with help from their therapeutic provider, and is learning to live in gratitude, forgiveness, empathy, compassion, and acceptance. Although this goal may seem lofty, we have never met any person who could not find their way to these ideals, and through them learn to manage their overall depression and anxiety.
We offer every client the opportunity to develop their sense of self-worth, build a greater alignment with their true identity, and move them toward finding purpose and meaning in their own lives. We believe that every person, no matter their mental health condition, feels contented when they have begun their wellness journey; with help from their therapeutic provider, and is learning to live in gratitude, forgiveness, empathy, compassion, and acceptance. Although this goal may seem lofty, we have never met any person who could not find their way to these ideals, and through them learn to manage their overall depression and anxiety.
(860) 809-4685 View (860) 809-4685
Photo of Dr. Janelle D Posey-Green, DSW, MSW, CLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Janelle D Posey-Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, CLC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
I am very passionate about helping Women on their journey of self-empowerment and change. I have over 10 years of experience helping adolescents, women, and families with their goals by helping teach the tools needed for success. I have worked with a wide range of individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, abandonment, low self-esteem, and helplessness. I work with couples as well as families to build a bridge and achieve conflict and communication goals. A person working with me should expect a nonjudgmental supportive approach. I love to highlight personal strengths and meet a person where they are.
I am very passionate about helping Women on their journey of self-empowerment and change. I have over 10 years of experience helping adolescents, women, and families with their goals by helping teach the tools needed for success. I have worked with a wide range of individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, abandonment, low self-esteem, and helplessness. I work with couples as well as families to build a bridge and achieve conflict and communication goals. A person working with me should expect a nonjudgmental supportive approach. I love to highlight personal strengths and meet a person where they are.
(860) 546-3266 View (860) 546-3266
Photo of Christine A. Twitty, LPC, MS, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine A. Twitty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360  (Online Only)
People often struggle with issues during their lifetimes. Some are persistent, others are for a season. Sometimes we feel stuck, bored, or trapped in cycles of living and thinking. Sometimes life throws something unexpected at us, and we need a helper to find our way through. How we view the challenge, our thinking regarding it, and what we choose to believe about it impacts our ability to approach solutions, actions or resolutions. Mindful introspection, understanding what we tell ourselves, and believe about these issues can help to re-write our solutions to the challenges life can bring.
People often struggle with issues during their lifetimes. Some are persistent, others are for a season. Sometimes we feel stuck, bored, or trapped in cycles of living and thinking. Sometimes life throws something unexpected at us, and we need a helper to find our way through. How we view the challenge, our thinking regarding it, and what we choose to believe about it impacts our ability to approach solutions, actions or resolutions. Mindful introspection, understanding what we tell ourselves, and believe about these issues can help to re-write our solutions to the challenges life can bring.
(860) 530-4510 View (860) 530-4510
Photo of Angelica Martinez, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelica Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist with a demonstrated history of working with children and adults from diverse populations through both traditional talk therapy and expressive therapies. I have an extensive background working in agency, school and private practice settings. I am a client-centered therapist and am passionate about working with clients to achieve growth, healing, and self-actualization.
I am a psychotherapist with a demonstrated history of working with children and adults from diverse populations through both traditional talk therapy and expressive therapies. I have an extensive background working in agency, school and private practice settings. I am a client-centered therapist and am passionate about working with clients to achieve growth, healing, and self-actualization.
(860) 467-0862 View (860) 467-0862

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cheyenne McElhiney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheyenne McElhiney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gales Ferry, CT 06335
Are you a teenage or adult woman struggling with anxiety, panic, the impact of trauma or chronic stress and feel like traditional talk therapy hasn't worked for you? Do you need practical tools to help you manage overwhelming emotions and take back control of your life? I get it, I've been there too. Some of the symptoms my clients (and myself) have experienced are excessive worry, difficulty calming down or finding safety in their body, difficulty regulating their emotions, difficulty identifying and expressing needs / boundaries and burnout from people pleasing / care-taking.
Are you a teenage or adult woman struggling with anxiety, panic, the impact of trauma or chronic stress and feel like traditional talk therapy hasn't worked for you? Do you need practical tools to help you manage overwhelming emotions and take back control of your life? I get it, I've been there too. Some of the symptoms my clients (and myself) have experienced are excessive worry, difficulty calming down or finding safety in their body, difficulty regulating their emotions, difficulty identifying and expressing needs / boundaries and burnout from people pleasing / care-taking.
(860) 415-6049 View (860) 415-6049
Photo of Barbara Roberts - A Partnership In Creative Counseling, LCSW
A Partnership In Creative Counseling
LCSW
Verified Verified
Lisbon, CT 06351
We are a small group of professional therapists thriving to create a safe, caring, & confidential atmosphere. We are dedicated to helping our clients feel comfortable so they can work on mental health issues, daily challenges and life stressors. We are centrally located in Canterbury with easy access from Plainfield, Lisbon, Windham and surrounding areas. Our clinicians also utilize dogs, and horses along with art & play therapy when it is appropriate. We are happy to announce the addition of a Certified Holistic Nutritionist to the practice. Along with adolescent group therapy and child and adolescent therapeutic book clubs.
We are a small group of professional therapists thriving to create a safe, caring, & confidential atmosphere. We are dedicated to helping our clients feel comfortable so they can work on mental health issues, daily challenges and life stressors. We are centrally located in Canterbury with easy access from Plainfield, Lisbon, Windham and surrounding areas. Our clinicians also utilize dogs, and horses along with art & play therapy when it is appropriate. We are happy to announce the addition of a Certified Holistic Nutritionist to the practice. Along with adolescent group therapy and child and adolescent therapeutic book clubs.
(959) 335-9734 View (959) 335-9734
Photo of Jean Allbee-Roberson - Alliance Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alliance Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ledyard, CT 06339
Welcome! Thank you for checking out what we have to offer in your search for a therapist who can meet your unique therapy needs. We are provide services in person or via telehealth. Unfortunately we have waiting lists as follows: For 100% telehealth, our waiting list is 4-6 months for adults, couples, or teens 16+. For in person services, waiting lists are 5-9 months for ages 10 and up and couples; 6-12 months for children under 10 or family therapy. Unfortunately we do not have openings after 2pm or on weekends. We do our best to return calls within 2 business days, but if it takes longer, know that we WILL call you back!
Welcome! Thank you for checking out what we have to offer in your search for a therapist who can meet your unique therapy needs. We are provide services in person or via telehealth. Unfortunately we have waiting lists as follows: For 100% telehealth, our waiting list is 4-6 months for adults, couples, or teens 16+. For in person services, waiting lists are 5-9 months for ages 10 and up and couples; 6-12 months for children under 10 or family therapy. Unfortunately we do not have openings after 2pm or on weekends. We do our best to return calls within 2 business days, but if it takes longer, know that we WILL call you back!
(860) 552-2274 View (860) 552-2274
Photo of Melinda Mary Tyler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melinda Mary Tyler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, CT 06365
I am a Christian Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with people of all ages. I incorporate a Holistic, Systemic approach in my work in these modalities: groups, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience teaching parenting and working with youth in a variety of capacities, initially as a Youth Minister, Sunday School teacher and school based lunch bunches. I also work with divorcing and divorced couples in need of better parenting strategies. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, ART, family therapy theoryand Biblical Principles in my practice.
I am a Christian Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with people of all ages. I incorporate a Holistic, Systemic approach in my work in these modalities: groups, couples, families and individuals. I have extensive experience teaching parenting and working with youth in a variety of capacities, initially as a Youth Minister, Sunday School teacher and school based lunch bunches. I also work with divorcing and divorced couples in need of better parenting strategies. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, ART, family therapy theoryand Biblical Principles in my practice.
(860) 650-1329 View (860) 650-1329

Online Therapists

Photo of Marion Berrian Williams, MA, LPC, NCC, REAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marion Berrian Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, REAT
Verified Verified
Sharon, CT 06069
Along with behavioral therapy for adults and adolescents, I have an extensive background in expressive arts therapy and spiritually integrated psychotherapy.
Maintaining resilience through life's stages is important to achieving balance. My work focuses on helping clients increase feelings of life satisfaction, managing stress, lessening anxiety and improving their relationships. Healing past traumas and finding purpose and meaning helps one to be fully present to life. To this goal, I offer therapy that may include creative expression and meditation techniques to increase access to experiences of wellness and peace.. A board certified licensed counselor in the State of Connecticut, I offer depth psychotherapy, pastoral counseling and expressive art therapy.
Along with behavioral therapy for adults and adolescents, I have an extensive background in expressive arts therapy and spiritually integrated psychotherapy.
Maintaining resilience through life's stages is important to achieving balance. My work focuses on helping clients increase feelings of life satisfaction, managing stress, lessening anxiety and improving their relationships. Healing past traumas and finding purpose and meaning helps one to be fully present to life. To this goal, I offer therapy that may include creative expression and meditation techniques to increase access to experiences of wellness and peace.. A board certified licensed counselor in the State of Connecticut, I offer depth psychotherapy, pastoral counseling and expressive art therapy.
(860) 579-1708 View (860) 579-1708
Photo of Judith Ehrman-Shapiro, NCC, BC-DMT, PhD
Judith Ehrman-Shapiro
NCC, BC-DMT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winsted, CT 06098
I have all expressive arts available and plenty of space and privacy.
I am interested in helping you address changes in your life and thinking that will improve your well-being, ability to cope, process the things that are difficult, and bring you greater happiness. Whether you are dealing with issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Addictions, or struggling with Life Events such as Loss, Illness, Disability, or Relationship issues, I believe in your Strength, Wisdom, and Perseverance. I am your partner in this Journey towards Wellness.
I have all expressive arts available and plenty of space and privacy.
I am interested in helping you address changes in your life and thinking that will improve your well-being, ability to cope, process the things that are difficult, and bring you greater happiness. Whether you are dealing with issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Addictions, or struggling with Life Events such as Loss, Illness, Disability, or Relationship issues, I believe in your Strength, Wisdom, and Perseverance. I am your partner in this Journey towards Wellness.
(860) 799-4006 View (860) 799-4006
Sandra Dee Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
I also offer expressive arts workshops to help clients explore their feelings and gain insight while crafting a visual narrative and journal.
We all face challenges in life. Sometimes we breeze through them, but other times we might need a little extra support to get through. I believe that every person has it within them to manage life's most difficult moments while connecting with their true, authentic selves. I grew up with the cultural stigmas of working with a counselor, but I know firsthand the importance of working with a trusted professional to help us navigate the issues that we face every day. I am here to provide a judgment-free space that welcomes you to show up exactly as you are.
I also offer expressive arts workshops to help clients explore their feelings and gain insight while crafting a visual narrative and journal.
We all face challenges in life. Sometimes we breeze through them, but other times we might need a little extra support to get through. I believe that every person has it within them to manage life's most difficult moments while connecting with their true, authentic selves. I grew up with the cultural stigmas of working with a counselor, but I know firsthand the importance of working with a trusted professional to help us navigate the issues that we face every day. I am here to provide a judgment-free space that welcomes you to show up exactly as you are.
(860) 419-2069 View (860) 419-2069
Photo of Shayla Mattesen, MA, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shayla Mattesen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110
I also tap into motivational interviewing, mindfulness exercises as well as offer expressive arts integration.
Welcome! I provide therapeutic services to children ages 10+, adolescents, and young adults who are working through some of life’s hardest moments, looking to improve their mental health, launching a personal healing and development journey, or aiming to build more security in their purpose, wellness, and happiness. Whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and grief, life transitions, or other challenges, I will support you and help you take the leap towards positive change. I also work with women with ADHD, focusing on the gender-specific challenges and stigmas that neurodivergent women experience.
I also tap into motivational interviewing, mindfulness exercises as well as offer expressive arts integration.
Welcome! I provide therapeutic services to children ages 10+, adolescents, and young adults who are working through some of life’s hardest moments, looking to improve their mental health, launching a personal healing and development journey, or aiming to build more security in their purpose, wellness, and happiness. Whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma, loss and grief, life transitions, or other challenges, I will support you and help you take the leap towards positive change. I also work with women with ADHD, focusing on the gender-specific challenges and stigmas that neurodivergent women experience.
(860) 781-9080 View (860) 781-9080
Photo of Kai Belton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kai Belton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06106
I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Faith Based Counseling, Mindfulness, and Expressive arts.
Hello and Welcome! Making the decision to pursue therapy is one of the bravest and most courageous one can make. I am here to support you on this journey of becoming the best version of yourself. My professional experience includes domestic violence services, parenting support, child and adolescent crisis services, juvenile justice and inpatient psychiatric care. My trauma informed resiliency focused lens enables me to support individuals from all walks of life.
I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Faith Based Counseling, Mindfulness, and Expressive arts.
Hello and Welcome! Making the decision to pursue therapy is one of the bravest and most courageous one can make. I am here to support you on this journey of becoming the best version of yourself. My professional experience includes domestic violence services, parenting support, child and adolescent crisis services, juvenile justice and inpatient psychiatric care. My trauma informed resiliency focused lens enables me to support individuals from all walks of life.
(860) 378-2721 View (860) 378-2721
Photo of Cheryl Vanase, MA, CAGS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Vanase
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAGS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
Cheryl specializes in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Womens' Health, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Addiction, Spirituality, Ecotherapy, Expressive Arts, Yoga Life-coaching, and Conscious Lifestyling. In session, Cheryl weaves ancient + modern modalities with her love of clinical research to offer clients techniques that truly help. Clients are guided towards to groundedness, emotional resilience, optimal mental health, increased consciousness, and a life of authenticity.
Cheryl specializes in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Womens' Health, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Addiction, Spirituality, Ecotherapy, Expressive Arts, Yoga Life-coaching, and Conscious Lifestyling. In session, Cheryl weaves ancient + modern modalities with her love of clinical research to offer clients techniques that truly help. Clients are guided towards to groundedness, emotional resilience, optimal mental health, increased consciousness, and a life of authenticity.
(203) 350-7591 View (203) 350-7591
Photo of Jenna T Cohen, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna T Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mystic, CT 06355
Cohen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified EMDR therapist, trained Pain Reprocessing Therapist, and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C) with additional training in Expressive Arts Therapy and EMDR with Yoga and movement.
If you are struggling with Chronic Pain, Anxiety, or Trauma, you’ve come to the right place. I understand the frustration of feeling like you’ve tried everything and nothing has worked. Together we will use evidence-based approaches which include Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Mindfulness, and CBT, which are designed to help your mind and body heal, enabling you to live the fulfilling life you deserve. Take a deep breath…it’s ok to have hope in healing
Cohen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified EMDR therapist, trained Pain Reprocessing Therapist, and Certified Perinatal Mental Health Counselor (PMH-C) with additional training in Expressive Arts Therapy and EMDR with Yoga and movement.
If you are struggling with Chronic Pain, Anxiety, or Trauma, you’ve come to the right place. I understand the frustration of feeling like you’ve tried everything and nothing has worked. Together we will use evidence-based approaches which include Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Mindfulness, and CBT, which are designed to help your mind and body heal, enabling you to live the fulfilling life you deserve. Take a deep breath…it’s ok to have hope in healing
(860) 431-3918 View (860) 431-3918
Photo of Lisa A. Barrett Art Therapist, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa A. Barrett Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, CT 06066
Are you ready to move through some of the challenges that you or your child has been facing? As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist I believe that everyone has an innate ability to heal. Art Therapy, Expressive Arts Techniques, Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness Based practices help empower clients to integrate inner/outer disconnections of self, heal wounds and release stuck energies, in a safe environment. Art Therapy improves self-esteem, cultivates resilience, promotes insight, helps with emotional regulation, and increase overall well-being physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Are you ready to move through some of the challenges that you or your child has been facing? As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist I believe that everyone has an innate ability to heal. Art Therapy, Expressive Arts Techniques, Psychotherapy, and Mindfulness Based practices help empower clients to integrate inner/outer disconnections of self, heal wounds and release stuck energies, in a safe environment. Art Therapy improves self-esteem, cultivates resilience, promotes insight, helps with emotional regulation, and increase overall well-being physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
(959) 335-9003 x860539 View (959) 335-9003 x860539
Photo of Jenna Rose Alcaraz, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Rose Alcaraz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Her approach to reaching wholeness and one’s potential pulls from DBT, mindfulness and expressive arts.
Jenna is a bilingual psychotherapist offering individual, group and family therapy in-person and online. She has served women, children and families for over 10 years as a therapist, doula, yoga practitioner and educator. Jenna holds a M.A. in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling and postgraduate certificate in Expressive Arts. She is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and extensively trained in yoga and mindfulness. She lives her life by the same principles she employs in therapy. She strives to see the true potential in herself and others while doing her best to be present and hold empathic space for all.
Her approach to reaching wholeness and one’s potential pulls from DBT, mindfulness and expressive arts.
Jenna is a bilingual psychotherapist offering individual, group and family therapy in-person and online. She has served women, children and families for over 10 years as a therapist, doula, yoga practitioner and educator. Jenna holds a M.A. in Holistic Clinical Mental Health Counseling and postgraduate certificate in Expressive Arts. She is certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and extensively trained in yoga and mindfulness. She lives her life by the same principles she employs in therapy. She strives to see the true potential in herself and others while doing her best to be present and hold empathic space for all.
(860) 847-7681 View (860) 847-7681
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.