Expressive Arts Therapists in Ocoee, FL

Photo of Jenelle P Coolidge, MS, LMHC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Jenelle P Coolidge
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
Are you struggling with body image and feel like you have an internal battle that no one can see? Do you sometimes feel like you are "stuck" emotionally and need help to keep moving forward. It is difficult to feel seen and understood when struggling with an eating disorder and when struggling with the pain of past traumas. My work with eating disorders and body image is conducted through a Health at Every Size (HAES) lens that provides a safe growing environment to heal.
Are you struggling with body image and feel like you have an internal battle that no one can see? Do you sometimes feel like you are "stuck" emotionally and need help to keep moving forward. It is difficult to feel seen and understood when struggling with an eating disorder and when struggling with the pain of past traumas. My work with eating disorders and body image is conducted through a Health at Every Size (HAES) lens that provides a safe growing environment to heal.
(321) 456-9588 View (321) 456-9588
Photo of Melissa Bryant - Restoring Hearts &Minds Counseling, MA,LMHC, Counselor
Restoring Hearts &Minds Counseling
Counselor, MA,LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761  (Online Only)
Talking to someone new can be extremely difficult. Are you looking to talk to someone non -judgmental and authentic. Someone who will guide you in making changes in your behavior, thought process and emotions. Are you struggling with regulating your emotions, impacted by life circumstances, stressors, or even a traumatic event that wasn’t within your control. Your emotional wellness is important, as we work together you will set goals to achieve a better way of functioning. It's important to be patient with yourself as you set goals. Your Mental Health is important. I have over a decade of experience let’s talk.
Talking to someone new can be extremely difficult. Are you looking to talk to someone non -judgmental and authentic. Someone who will guide you in making changes in your behavior, thought process and emotions. Are you struggling with regulating your emotions, impacted by life circumstances, stressors, or even a traumatic event that wasn’t within your control. Your emotional wellness is important, as we work together you will set goals to achieve a better way of functioning. It's important to be patient with yourself as you set goals. Your Mental Health is important. I have over a decade of experience let’s talk.
(321) 395-5896 View (321) 395-5896
Photo of Andrea Michelle Tackore - Phenix Counseling, PLLC, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Phenix Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ocoee, FL 34761  (Online Only)
From the outside looking in, you have success...you have the education, the family, the expertise, the profession, or maybe all of the above but you feel stuck in some way. You want to find comfort, peace, stronger self esteem, authentic connections or joy but you're not sure how to obtain those? Our relationship with you becomes the base camp for challenging dysfunctional meanings and for living life in a completely different and healthier way! It's not about a quick fix, it's about your deep and lasting transformation.
From the outside looking in, you have success...you have the education, the family, the expertise, the profession, or maybe all of the above but you feel stuck in some way. You want to find comfort, peace, stronger self esteem, authentic connections or joy but you're not sure how to obtain those? Our relationship with you becomes the base camp for challenging dysfunctional meanings and for living life in a completely different and healthier way! It's not about a quick fix, it's about your deep and lasting transformation.
(689) 204-2412 View (689) 204-2412
Photo of Natasha Ramnauth, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha Ramnauth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
Feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Frustrated with your loved ones? If you are ready to make changes, I'm here to help. I look at the anxiety and depression symptoms but also the underlying issues that cause these concerns. I focus on identifying strengths and building healthy coping skills to manage trauma triggers and life stressors. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I teach skills for clearer communication and focus on creating meaningful interactions with others. I use an integrative approach to therapy that draws on many different techniques and explores the underlying beliefs that keep you stuck.
Feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Frustrated with your loved ones? If you are ready to make changes, I'm here to help. I look at the anxiety and depression symptoms but also the underlying issues that cause these concerns. I focus on identifying strengths and building healthy coping skills to manage trauma triggers and life stressors. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I teach skills for clearer communication and focus on creating meaningful interactions with others. I use an integrative approach to therapy that draws on many different techniques and explores the underlying beliefs that keep you stuck.
(407) 205-9429 View (407) 205-9429
Photo of Ivette Vega, MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Ivette Vega
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
I am now accepting new clients, easy process, get started today! I provide virtual telehealth sessions with a direct, empathic and non-judgmental approach for anxiety, identity, depression, or relationship issues. With 8+ years in CBT and generational trauma, I offer a holistic approach integrating mind, body, and soul. Guided by faith, I am passionate about advocating for mental health. Virtual sessions may include activities, exercises or therapeutic HomeWorks. Together, we'll create a personalized plan that’s will help you on the path of healing.No insurance? No problem.I offer sliding scale fees and flexible scheduling weekdays.
I am now accepting new clients, easy process, get started today! I provide virtual telehealth sessions with a direct, empathic and non-judgmental approach for anxiety, identity, depression, or relationship issues. With 8+ years in CBT and generational trauma, I offer a holistic approach integrating mind, body, and soul. Guided by faith, I am passionate about advocating for mental health. Virtual sessions may include activities, exercises or therapeutic HomeWorks. Together, we'll create a personalized plan that’s will help you on the path of healing.No insurance? No problem.I offer sliding scale fees and flexible scheduling weekdays.
(321) 616-7245 View (321) 616-7245
Photo of Andrea Wilkinson Ed.s., EdS, RMHCI
Andrea Wilkinson Ed.s.
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, EdS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
Everyone deserves a safe place to explore and work through life’s difficult issues. I am passionate about helping people navigate these challenges. Whether it is working on lifelong anxiety or personal growth to live optimally, I can help you by utilizing evidenced-based techniques tailored to your unique need. We will work to create practical, actionable strategies that you can use right away that lead to meaningful growth. In addition to using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), I utilize exciting new treatments such as Virtual Reality, art, somatic, and music therapy if clients desire.
Everyone deserves a safe place to explore and work through life’s difficult issues. I am passionate about helping people navigate these challenges. Whether it is working on lifelong anxiety or personal growth to live optimally, I can help you by utilizing evidenced-based techniques tailored to your unique need. We will work to create practical, actionable strategies that you can use right away that lead to meaningful growth. In addition to using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), I utilize exciting new treatments such as Virtual Reality, art, somatic, and music therapy if clients desire.
(321) 336-5974 View (321) 336-5974
Photo of Lainy I. Peralta, MS, LMHC, EMDR, TF-CBT, QS
Lainy I. Peralta
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR, TF-CBT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocoee, FL 34761
It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and stressed out at times. You may experience anxiety, depression, loneliness, and low self-esteem, and that's okay. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and it's empowering to know that you have the ability to take charge of your life and become the person you aspire to be. Your past does not define you; you're not alone if you've experienced a traumatic event or are struggling mentally. Together, we can work towards achieving healing and peace. Are you ready to take that first step? My name is Lainy Peralta, and I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I'm only a phone call away!
It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and stressed out at times. You may experience anxiety, depression, loneliness, and low self-esteem, and that's okay. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and it's empowering to know that you have the ability to take charge of your life and become the person you aspire to be. Your past does not define you; you're not alone if you've experienced a traumatic event or are struggling mentally. Together, we can work towards achieving healing and peace. Are you ready to take that first step? My name is Lainy Peralta, and I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I'm only a phone call away!
(689) 247-1339 View (689) 247-1339

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Steph Wysong-Choo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Steph Wysong-Choo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
With my non-traditional approach to therapy using expressive arts, video games, and other unique approaches to elicit those emotional experiences, I am always keen to discovering ways to help clients connect their logical experiences to their deepest emotions.
You’re in it, right now, aren’t you? No matter your stage in life, you’ve reached that point where the reflection in the mirror doesn’t quite look or feel the same, that person you see feels like a stranger, or even a ghost. "How did it get like this? When did it all become so heavy? Why do I feel so alone?" Themes of confusion, frustration, isolation, sadness, and fear often creep up. You carry the weight of unspoken words and misunderstood feelings, your identity often brushed aside or misinterpreted. You’re so weighed down with the heaviness of life’s struggles, Where do you even begin? Where you are is where we begin.
With my non-traditional approach to therapy using expressive arts, video games, and other unique approaches to elicit those emotional experiences, I am always keen to discovering ways to help clients connect their logical experiences to their deepest emotions.
You’re in it, right now, aren’t you? No matter your stage in life, you’ve reached that point where the reflection in the mirror doesn’t quite look or feel the same, that person you see feels like a stranger, or even a ghost. "How did it get like this? When did it all become so heavy? Why do I feel so alone?" Themes of confusion, frustration, isolation, sadness, and fear often creep up. You carry the weight of unspoken words and misunderstood feelings, your identity often brushed aside or misinterpreted. You’re so weighed down with the heaviness of life’s struggles, Where do you even begin? Where you are is where we begin.
(321) 850-8799 View (321) 850-8799
Photo of Renata Huewitt - Ivy Bridge Counseling, LPC, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Ivy Bridge Counseling
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Apopka, FL 32703
We provide trauma-informed care and utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple and Family Therapy, Family Centered Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Mindfulness to help build resiliency and increase protective factors to improve functioning,.
We believe that clients are the experts of their lives and strive to help use creative therapeutic avenues to create a space to help them meet their goals. Our experienced team has experience helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families address emotional and behavioral needs including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders, social and school issues, military related issues, PTSD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, and family conflict.
We provide trauma-informed care and utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple and Family Therapy, Family Centered Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Mindfulness to help build resiliency and increase protective factors to improve functioning,.
We believe that clients are the experts of their lives and strive to help use creative therapeutic avenues to create a space to help them meet their goals. Our experienced team has experience helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families address emotional and behavioral needs including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders, social and school issues, military related issues, PTSD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, and family conflict.
(407) 565-7942 View (407) 565-7942
Photo of Caitlin McDonald, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin McDonald
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Windermere, FL 34786
Play therapy and expressive arts allow me to connect with children and teenagers in a non-threatening way, and this helps them to feel safe and comfortable throughout the counseling process.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have specialized training in many expressive arts, including art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, and bibliotherapy. I have an ability to relate with children and teenagers and can use each child's unique traits and interests throughout the counseling process. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help challenge and restructure negative thought patterns in older children and teenagers. I focus on building healthy relationships and effective communication among family members. I am trained in EMDR to help process trauma in the past and present.
Play therapy and expressive arts allow me to connect with children and teenagers in a non-threatening way, and this helps them to feel safe and comfortable throughout the counseling process.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have specialized training in many expressive arts, including art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, and bibliotherapy. I have an ability to relate with children and teenagers and can use each child's unique traits and interests throughout the counseling process. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help challenge and restructure negative thought patterns in older children and teenagers. I focus on building healthy relationships and effective communication among family members. I am trained in EMDR to help process trauma in the past and present.
(321) 233-9398 View (321) 233-9398
Photo of Amie Ortiz, LMHC, Counselor
Amie Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32811
I am a licensed mental health counselor with seven years of clinical experience. I have helped individuals and minors work through trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce care, adjustment concerns, career changes, and many other challenges. Some treatment methods I have used are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Relational, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Expressive Arts, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe that together we can identify what you need to live a more fulfilled life.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with seven years of clinical experience. I have helped individuals and minors work through trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, divorce care, adjustment concerns, career changes, and many other challenges. Some treatment methods I have used are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Relational, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Expressive Arts, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe that together we can identify what you need to live a more fulfilled life.
(727) 955-3290 View (727) 955-3290
Photo of Lela Geist, MA, LMHC, MT-BC, Counselor
Lela Geist
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
I enjoy using a combination of expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in working with young adults and adults experiencing difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression, overwhelming and difficulty regulating emotions, relational concerns, and helping build confidence and self-esteem. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and keeping up with demands can feel like a constant uphill trek. I aim to help clients feel excited and passionate about life and to face challenges with confidence. I also enjoy working with individuals who identify as HSPs (Highly Sensitive People) and artists/musicians/creatives!
I enjoy using a combination of expressive arts, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I specialize in working with young adults and adults experiencing difficult life transitions, anxiety, depression, overwhelming and difficulty regulating emotions, relational concerns, and helping build confidence and self-esteem. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and keeping up with demands can feel like a constant uphill trek. I aim to help clients feel excited and passionate about life and to face challenges with confidence. I also enjoy working with individuals who identify as HSPs (Highly Sensitive People) and artists/musicians/creatives!
(386) 202-1366 View (386) 202-1366
Photo of Susie Rhoads, MS, LMHC, C-PDTP, NATC, CCTP
Susie Rhoads
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, C-PDTP, NATC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Susie Rhoads has over 30 years of experience working with individuals from all aspects of life including the LGBTQ+ community, Personality Disorders, and individuals with Trauma/PTSD/C-PTSD, Grief/Loss, Generalized Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, and Substance Abuse issues. Susie uses techniques including talk therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Bibliotherapy, and Play Therapy.
Susie Rhoads has over 30 years of experience working with individuals from all aspects of life including the LGBTQ+ community, Personality Disorders, and individuals with Trauma/PTSD/C-PTSD, Grief/Loss, Generalized Anxiety, Bipolar Disorders, and Substance Abuse issues. Susie uses techniques including talk therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Bibliotherapy, and Play Therapy.
(407) 547-1588 View (407) 547-1588
Photo of Michael Kellogg, LMHC-BC, ATR-BC, NCC, Counselor
Michael Kellogg
Counselor, LMHC-BC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819
All of us deserve the kind of life we desire even if that may seem beyond reach. I work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues using Cognitive therapy and Expressive arts therapy techniques. The communion of these therapies is enlightening and empowering leading to the discovery of novel solutions for issues that may presently be robbing you of happiness and meaning in your life. I provide counseling adults at Psych Pointe of FL. Please call the office for an appointment. Psych Pointe is a psychiatric practice with services for children, adolescents, and adults. We have immediate availability for appointments.
All of us deserve the kind of life we desire even if that may seem beyond reach. I work with a range of emotional and behavioral issues using Cognitive therapy and Expressive arts therapy techniques. The communion of these therapies is enlightening and empowering leading to the discovery of novel solutions for issues that may presently be robbing you of happiness and meaning in your life. I provide counseling adults at Psych Pointe of FL. Please call the office for an appointment. Psych Pointe is a psychiatric practice with services for children, adolescents, and adults. We have immediate availability for appointments.
(407) 270-7702 View (407) 270-7702
Photo of Jillayna Adamson, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillayna Adamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Garden, FL 34777
I commonly employ EMDR, expressive arts, narrative therapy, mindfulness techniques and play therapy.
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
I commonly employ EMDR, expressive arts, narrative therapy, mindfulness techniques and play therapy.
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
(314) 789-7507 View (314) 789-7507
Photo of Annika Nichols, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Annika Nichols
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
I want to help bring authenticity and change to your life the way you want it to. I'm Nick (they/them), and I’m dual licensed in two states working with FL and CO clients. I work with queer issues and gender exploration/transition, codependency and relationship problems, anxiety disorders, neurodivergence, chronic illness, trauma, and grief/loss. I also work with non-monogamous/poly clients. I’m here to provide a safe and respectful place for you to be seen and heard. You're not alone and you don’t have to keep telling yourself everything is “fine” or normal in your life - let's find a better "normal" for you to live.
I want to help bring authenticity and change to your life the way you want it to. I'm Nick (they/them), and I’m dual licensed in two states working with FL and CO clients. I work with queer issues and gender exploration/transition, codependency and relationship problems, anxiety disorders, neurodivergence, chronic illness, trauma, and grief/loss. I also work with non-monogamous/poly clients. I’m here to provide a safe and respectful place for you to be seen and heard. You're not alone and you don’t have to keep telling yourself everything is “fine” or normal in your life - let's find a better "normal" for you to live.
(720) 790-4189 View (720) 790-4189
Photo of Madi Farrell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Madi Farrell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I specialize in working with young adults and teenagers who struggle with anxiety and low self-esteem. I also work a lot with clients who are adjusting to a new phase of life (like starting college, entering adulthood, grieving a break up, etc.) and issues pertaining to spirituality and meaning-making.
I specialize in working with young adults and teenagers who struggle with anxiety and low self-esteem. I also work a lot with clients who are adjusting to a new phase of life (like starting college, entering adulthood, grieving a break up, etc.) and issues pertaining to spirituality and meaning-making.
(407) 329-6952 View (407) 329-6952
Photo of Allison Petro, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Petro
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
I believe that humans are resilient and can overcome the obstacles before them with the proper tools, support, and mindset. I help motivated individuals like yourself openly explore what holds them back from experiencing a joy-filled life. Examples include negative core beliefs, past traumatic experiences and unhealthy lifestyles. I like to use a more holistic approach to treating mental health concerns so in addition to looking at your thoughts and feelings, we will also examine your nutrition, exercise, sleep habits and support network.
I believe that humans are resilient and can overcome the obstacles before them with the proper tools, support, and mindset. I help motivated individuals like yourself openly explore what holds them back from experiencing a joy-filled life. Examples include negative core beliefs, past traumatic experiences and unhealthy lifestyles. I like to use a more holistic approach to treating mental health concerns so in addition to looking at your thoughts and feelings, we will also examine your nutrition, exercise, sleep habits and support network.
(407) 603-3526 View (407) 603-3526
Photo of Christine Dassow, LMHC, NCC, MEd/EdS, QS, Counselor
Christine Dassow
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MEd/EdS, QS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winter Garden, FL 34787  (Online Only)
Worry, racing thoughts, and exhaustion from anxiety. Does this sound familiar? What about difficulty concentrating at school or work, forgetfulness, or trouble organizing? I specialize in anxiety, stress, ADHD and more (self-esteem, adjustment, life transitions & growth). Through the safe space of telehealth counseling, you can achieve your goals in the most flexible way for your schedule, the most private & comfortable environment of your home/office, & without transportation concerns. In every session, I aim for you to feel heard, seen, empowered, & that we're working together to help you on your best path for relief.
Worry, racing thoughts, and exhaustion from anxiety. Does this sound familiar? What about difficulty concentrating at school or work, forgetfulness, or trouble organizing? I specialize in anxiety, stress, ADHD and more (self-esteem, adjustment, life transitions & growth). Through the safe space of telehealth counseling, you can achieve your goals in the most flexible way for your schedule, the most private & comfortable environment of your home/office, & without transportation concerns. In every session, I aim for you to feel heard, seen, empowered, & that we're working together to help you on your best path for relief.
(407) 792-1857 View (407) 792-1857
Photo of Michelle Robin Gould, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Michelle Robin Gould
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windermere, FL 34786  (Online Only)
You're new to recovery. You've been through detox, and now you're ready to work on getting to the heart of why you used alcohol or drugs in the first place. You’re looking for a therapist who will listen to your story and help you see the patterns in your choices, relationships, and experiences that could jeopardize your recovery. You’re smart enough to know that there are better ways to cope. Let me show you how. I work with adults throughout Florida who are tired of fighting a tug of war with addiction and want to look forward to getting up in the morning instead. You don’t have to stitch yourself back together alone.
You're new to recovery. You've been through detox, and now you're ready to work on getting to the heart of why you used alcohol or drugs in the first place. You’re looking for a therapist who will listen to your story and help you see the patterns in your choices, relationships, and experiences that could jeopardize your recovery. You’re smart enough to know that there are better ways to cope. Let me show you how. I work with adults throughout Florida who are tired of fighting a tug of war with addiction and want to look forward to getting up in the morning instead. You don’t have to stitch yourself back together alone.
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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.