Expressive Arts Therapists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Lela Geist, MA, LMHC, MT-BC, Counselor
Lela Geist
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 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.)
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.)
(386) 202-1366 View (386) 202-1366
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 Kim Reid, LMHC, Counselor
Kim Reid
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
My competency and training also includes Level 1 Training Gottman Method Couples Therapy, mindfulness, trauma, grief and loss, expressive arts, play therapy, and work with families.
Are you feeling lost, stuck, or at a dead-end and don't know which way to turn? Are fears, worries, or negative thoughts making it difficult to communicate, make decisions, or navigate relationships? The pain of anxiety, depression, and loss can make us weary travelers; but you don't have to journey alone. I would love to have the opportunity to walk with you; help lighten your load. You know you and I know what years of training, experience, and intentional care for clients can do in helping to redirect one's path in a healthier direction. Together, we can work to chart a new course through problem solving and solution seeking.
My competency and training also includes Level 1 Training Gottman Method Couples Therapy, mindfulness, trauma, grief and loss, expressive arts, play therapy, and work with families.
Are you feeling lost, stuck, or at a dead-end and don't know which way to turn? Are fears, worries, or negative thoughts making it difficult to communicate, make decisions, or navigate relationships? The pain of anxiety, depression, and loss can make us weary travelers; but you don't have to journey alone. I would love to have the opportunity to walk with you; help lighten your load. You know you and I know what years of training, experience, and intentional care for clients can do in helping to redirect one's path in a healthier direction. Together, we can work to chart a new course through problem solving and solution seeking.
(321) 415-7418 View (321) 415-7418
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 Jennifer Wisser-Stokes, MSCP, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Jennifer Wisser-Stokes
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32826
Child Specialist (ages 3+) in Play Therapy for: anxiety, OCD, behavioral issues at home and/or at school, bullying and self-esteem issues, parent/child conflict, & divorce reactions. Teen and Young Adults (ages 13-25) in Creative/Expressive Arts for: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, & school/family/life adjustments. Parent Consultation and Parent Groups are also available.
Child Specialist (ages 3+) in Play Therapy for: anxiety, OCD, behavioral issues at home and/or at school, bullying and self-esteem issues, parent/child conflict, & divorce reactions. Teen and Young Adults (ages 13-25) in Creative/Expressive Arts for: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, & school/family/life adjustments. Parent Consultation and Parent Groups are also available.
(407) 449-1432 View (407) 449-1432
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 Caitlin McDonald, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin McDonald
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32806
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.
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 Diane Kimball - Kimball Counseling Associates, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Diane Kimball - Kimball Counseling Associates
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
We incorporate whatever is needed for you to heal, including EMDR, Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, talk, and group therapy (parents, teens and children).
I believe that our past hurts and traumatic experiences impact the quality of our daily lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety, trust issues, troubled or dissatisfying relationships, poor work or school performance, and negative self-esteem. I work with clients to resolve past or present trauma, including problematic symptomology and dissociation stemming from complex trauma. I will walk with you to help facilitate opportunities to increase awareness and insight into your life, process problematic issues and augment your strengths , which can be a pathway of hope and positive change.
We incorporate whatever is needed for you to heal, including EMDR, Expressive Arts, Play Therapy, talk, and group therapy (parents, teens and children).
I believe that our past hurts and traumatic experiences impact the quality of our daily lives, often resulting in depression, anxiety, trust issues, troubled or dissatisfying relationships, poor work or school performance, and negative self-esteem. I work with clients to resolve past or present trauma, including problematic symptomology and dissociation stemming from complex trauma. I will walk with you to help facilitate opportunities to increase awareness and insight into your life, process problematic issues and augment your strengths , which can be a pathway of hope and positive change.
(407) 378-3748 View (407) 378-3748
Photo of Cice Rivera - Bout Me Healing, CAP, RCAT, RDT, Coach, License, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Bout Me Healing
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAP, RCAT, RDT, Coach, License
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32802
Our program implements and achieves a client-focused program designed to increase expressive arts, creative expression, we use a variety of modalities including holistic, as well as traditional methods to treat the mind, body, and spirit.
Our mission is to deliver a unique approach to recovery for those suffering from substance use disorder, mental crisis and spiritual, crisis and awakenings. Our program implements & achieves a client-focused program designed to increase expressive arts, creative expression, we use a variety of modalities including holistic, as well as traditional methods to treat the mind, body, and spirit. What if I don't have insurance? We provide: sliding scale to assist needs & provide coaching sessions with quality care. We assist you to change a limited belief system and break habitual patterns. We are accepting clients, call today.
Our program implements and achieves a client-focused program designed to increase expressive arts, creative expression, we use a variety of modalities including holistic, as well as traditional methods to treat the mind, body, and spirit.
Our mission is to deliver a unique approach to recovery for those suffering from substance use disorder, mental crisis and spiritual, crisis and awakenings. Our program implements & achieves a client-focused program designed to increase expressive arts, creative expression, we use a variety of modalities including holistic, as well as traditional methods to treat the mind, body, and spirit. What if I don't have insurance? We provide: sliding scale to assist needs & provide coaching sessions with quality care. We assist you to change a limited belief system and break habitual patterns. We are accepting clients, call today.
(561) 501-0418 View (561) 501-0418
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
Orlando, FL 32809
Waitlist for new clients
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 LeAnne Wawrzaszek Schumann, MA, LMHC, NCC
LeAnne Wawrzaszek Schumann
MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32816
I encourage prescriptive therapies such as journaling, expressive arts, reflection in nature, and exploration of individual talents.
Clients come to my office to address an array of issues, but, first and foremost, they come to be heard and understood. In a world that seems to move increasingly faster with less genuine connection to others, LWS Wellness is dedicated to providing a safe, caring space where clients can take a breath, gather their thoughts, and explore their concerns. Clients are encouraged to further develop resiliency, apply coping skills and self-compassion, and examine the impact of past experiences and family dynamics. Who we are is often an intersection with what we've experienced. My clients' experiences are always respected.
I encourage prescriptive therapies such as journaling, expressive arts, reflection in nature, and exploration of individual talents.
Clients come to my office to address an array of issues, but, first and foremost, they come to be heard and understood. In a world that seems to move increasingly faster with less genuine connection to others, LWS Wellness is dedicated to providing a safe, caring space where clients can take a breath, gather their thoughts, and explore their concerns. Clients are encouraged to further develop resiliency, apply coping skills and self-compassion, and examine the impact of past experiences and family dynamics. Who we are is often an intersection with what we've experienced. My clients' experiences are always respected.
(407) 305-7150 View (407) 305-7150
Photo of Rebecca Richardson, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Rebecca Richardson
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I specialize in expressive arts therapy, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, attachment issues, and trauma. I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and that expressive arts therapy can be a powerful tool for accessing and processing difficult emotions. I have been working with survivors of trauma for over 6 years, and I have seen firsthand the transformative power of expressive arts therapy. When people can express themselves through art, music, and dance, they can connect with their emotions in a new way, release trauma, and begin to heal.
I specialize in expressive arts therapy, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, attachment issues, and trauma. I believe that everyone has the capacity for healing and that expressive arts therapy can be a powerful tool for accessing and processing difficult emotions. I have been working with survivors of trauma for over 6 years, and I have seen firsthand the transformative power of expressive arts therapy. When people can express themselves through art, music, and dance, they can connect with their emotions in a new way, release trauma, and begin to heal.
(863) 592-0477 View (863) 592-0477
Photo of Renata Huewitt - Ivy Bridge Counseling, LPC, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Ivy Bridge Counseling
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
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 Jordan Carr, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Jordan Carr
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32817
I provide counseling informed by elements of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Expressive Arts ,Internal Family Systems, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
So often, our past hijacks our lives, and this is especially true when we have experienced trauma. I also know that we can feel like this may never change. There is hope. I believe we all need a safe place where we can work through our pain and hurt in the compassionate and understanding presence of another. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents. My areas of focus include trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, grief, couples and premarital counseling, and relational struggles. As your counselor, I am committed to you and passionate about seeing you flourish.
I provide counseling informed by elements of Emotion-Focused Therapy, Expressive Arts ,Internal Family Systems, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
So often, our past hijacks our lives, and this is especially true when we have experienced trauma. I also know that we can feel like this may never change. There is hope. I believe we all need a safe place where we can work through our pain and hurt in the compassionate and understanding presence of another. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents. My areas of focus include trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, grief, couples and premarital counseling, and relational struggles. As your counselor, I am committed to you and passionate about seeing you flourish.
(407) 307-2988 View (407) 307-2988
Photo of Chelsea Casey, EdS, NCC, LPC, ITR-CTS, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea Casey
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC, ITR-CTS, CLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
In session I like to incorporate Trauma Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, and Expressive Arts Therapy depending on each client’s specific needs.
When we experience chaos and difficulty in our external worlds, our internal worlds often match the everyday crises we have “learned to live with”. Leading us to feel frustrated, confused, alone, and wishing there was a way out. What if I told you another path was possible? That instead of merely “getting by”, or masking your pain, that you could tap into resources to live a more confident and Self lead life? You deserve a space to explore the things that just are causing you frustration, without fear of judgement.
In session I like to incorporate Trauma Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, and Expressive Arts Therapy depending on each client’s specific needs.
When we experience chaos and difficulty in our external worlds, our internal worlds often match the everyday crises we have “learned to live with”. Leading us to feel frustrated, confused, alone, and wishing there was a way out. What if I told you another path was possible? That instead of merely “getting by”, or masking your pain, that you could tap into resources to live a more confident and Self lead life? You deserve a space to explore the things that just are causing you frustration, without fear of judgement.
(803) 710-4541 View (803) 710-4541
Photo of Marizayda Torres, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Marizayda Torres
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817  (Online Only)
Individuals often find themselves stagnant due to their own patterns of thoughts and behaviors or due to the absence of relational connection. Without that support, we often lack the ability to recognize the benefit of change, leading to a struggle in our journey forward. The clients I work with receive a tailored plan that encourages each individual toward their own goals and psychological well-being. This philosophy is built upon a safe space being created, allowing true exploration and expression of oneself, while identifying tools to enhance balance and happiness.
Individuals often find themselves stagnant due to their own patterns of thoughts and behaviors or due to the absence of relational connection. Without that support, we often lack the ability to recognize the benefit of change, leading to a struggle in our journey forward. The clients I work with receive a tailored plan that encourages each individual toward their own goals and psychological well-being. This philosophy is built upon a safe space being created, allowing true exploration and expression of oneself, while identifying tools to enhance balance and happiness.
(407) 456-8320 View (407) 456-8320
Photo of Greg Nute, PhD, LCCP, LMHC, CIMHP, CNHP, Counselor
Greg Nute
Counselor, PhD, LCCP, LMHC, CIMHP, CNHP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32822
Have life’s challenges gotten you to the point of anxiety or depression? Has there been a trauma or something that has caused a shift in your life? Are you a parent that has a child or teen that is struggling to keep their head above water? Are you searching for meaning in life or are you struggling with your faith in the midst of adversity? Are you looking for a holistic approach to therapy? If so, then I’d be honored to help! We are not created as one-sided, but are multi-faceted. Because of this, I am a board-certified holistic psychologist, certified integrative and licensed counselor, and certified natural health professional.
Have life’s challenges gotten you to the point of anxiety or depression? Has there been a trauma or something that has caused a shift in your life? Are you a parent that has a child or teen that is struggling to keep their head above water? Are you searching for meaning in life or are you struggling with your faith in the midst of adversity? Are you looking for a holistic approach to therapy? If so, then I’d be honored to help! We are not created as one-sided, but are multi-faceted. Because of this, I am a board-certified holistic psychologist, certified integrative and licensed counselor, and certified natural health professional.
(321) 384-3465 View (321) 384-3465
Photo of Orlando Santiago - Orlando Santiago, LMHC, Counselor
Orlando Santiago
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32837
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and families improve their quality of life by overcoming behavioral and emotional challenges through compassionate therapy services. We will work together in removing the blocks to effective communication and in creating a more secure bond between your child and you. My areas of expertise include family conflicts, risky behavior in teens, sibling rivalry, anxiety and shyness, victims of bullying, depression, low frustration tolerance, trauma, and problems of self-image. Hablo Español :)
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and families improve their quality of life by overcoming behavioral and emotional challenges through compassionate therapy services. We will work together in removing the blocks to effective communication and in creating a more secure bond between your child and you. My areas of expertise include family conflicts, risky behavior in teens, sibling rivalry, anxiety and shyness, victims of bullying, depression, low frustration tolerance, trauma, and problems of self-image. Hablo Español :)
(321) 351-3440 View (321) 351-3440
Photo of Aj Garcia, MA, LMFT, QCS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aj Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, QCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
A.J. Garcia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. She began Thrive Counseling in 2012 with the goal of creating a space for clients of all ages and walks of life to find opportunity for positive growth in their lives. Integrity and professionalism are at the top of A.J.’s core values, and they serve as the foundation of her work with clients. Support and encouragement are essential to the counseling process, and are vital in the promotion of wellness.
A.J. Garcia is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. She began Thrive Counseling in 2012 with the goal of creating a space for clients of all ages and walks of life to find opportunity for positive growth in their lives. Integrity and professionalism are at the top of A.J.’s core values, and they serve as the foundation of her work with clients. Support and encouragement are essential to the counseling process, and are vital in the promotion of wellness.
(407) 449-1520 View (407) 449-1520
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
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.