Art Therapy in Winter Park, FL

Photo of Renee Cherowitz, LMHC, EMDR, ART, CCHt, Counselor
Renee Cherowitz
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, ART, CCHt
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Waitlist for new clients
If you think you need to make changes in your life but you do not know where to st art, please contact me to see if I am the right fit for you as a therapist.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, feelings of irritability, tearfulness or having consistent negative or irrational thoughts? Panic attacks? These may be symptoms of underlying core issues that have not been addressed. Many adults and children experience events that may have life-long consequences. Past events could include childhood experiences, addiction within the family, or acts of violence. Consequences may also include nightmares, insomnia, relational issues, addiction/substance abuse and physical symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and families in the area of trauma, addiction/substance abuse, eating disorders, domestic violence and individuals involved with the dependency court system.
If you think you need to make changes in your life but you do not know where to st art, please contact me to see if I am the right fit for you as a therapist.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, feelings of irritability, tearfulness or having consistent negative or irrational thoughts? Panic attacks? These may be symptoms of underlying core issues that have not been addressed. Many adults and children experience events that may have life-long consequences. Past events could include childhood experiences, addiction within the family, or acts of violence. Consequences may also include nightmares, insomnia, relational issues, addiction/substance abuse and physical symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and families in the area of trauma, addiction/substance abuse, eating disorders, domestic violence and individuals involved with the dependency court system.
(407) 543-1763 View (407) 543-1763
Photo of Miranda Katz, MS
Miranda Katz
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
My secondary approach is creative therapy, which uses writing, art, music, and other forms of creativity to express feelings or emotions.
I am passionate about working with a diverse group of teens and adults. While life situations may not be identical, the emotions related to an experience are. I strive to support my clients and help them navigate through their emotional process while providing a welcoming space to freely express themselves. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, self-harming, and stress.
My secondary approach is creative therapy, which uses writing, art, music, and other forms of creativity to express feelings or emotions.
I am passionate about working with a diverse group of teens and adults. While life situations may not be identical, the emotions related to an experience are. I strive to support my clients and help them navigate through their emotional process while providing a welcoming space to freely express themselves. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, self-harming, and stress.
(689) 283-9938 View (689) 283-9938
Photo of Brittany O'Sullivan, RMHCI
Brittany O'Sullivan
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Art therapy and dog touch therapy are powerful techniques in mental health counseling.
Brittany's passion is working with young adults and adolescents using expressive arts to help them through traumas, but has a desire for all human connection. Brittany uses trauma focused hypnotherapy, mindfulness, poetry, art, music, and talk therapy techniques. Brittany has experience with sexual and psychical abuse from her time at Kids House of Seminole County. Join her in your self-discovery journey. If you would like to learn more about Brittany check out her website and blog here: theteaonmentalhealth.godaddysites.com
Art therapy and dog touch therapy are powerful techniques in mental health counseling.
Brittany's passion is working with young adults and adolescents using expressive arts to help them through traumas, but has a desire for all human connection. Brittany uses trauma focused hypnotherapy, mindfulness, poetry, art, music, and talk therapy techniques. Brittany has experience with sexual and psychical abuse from her time at Kids House of Seminole County. Join her in your self-discovery journey. If you would like to learn more about Brittany check out her website and blog here: theteaonmentalhealth.godaddysites.com
(321) 455-8857 View (321) 455-8857
Photo of Cj Varghese, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cj Varghese
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
I am trained in highly researched trauma treatments like RTM, EMDR & ART.
My approach to counseling is based on the integration of my professional psychological training and personal experience. I personally have overcome abuse and addictions in my own life. I believe we were created to live in healthy relationships and I love working with people to help them live closer to who they were designed to be. I believe that if we are able to experience healing within ourselves, we can live in relationship with others more freely and authentically.
I am trained in highly researched trauma treatments like RTM, EMDR & ART.
My approach to counseling is based on the integration of my professional psychological training and personal experience. I personally have overcome abuse and addictions in my own life. I believe we were created to live in healthy relationships and I love working with people to help them live closer to who they were designed to be. I believe that if we are able to experience healing within ourselves, we can live in relationship with others more freely and authentically.
(321) 351-4734 View (321) 351-4734
Photo of Sarah Burnett, MS, LMHC, RYT, Counselor
Sarah Burnett
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Welcome! My name is Sarah Burnett, and I created Balance Is The Key to nurture a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in trauma and transition therapy among teens, young adults and individuals, parent coaching and child therapy. I utilize various treatment modalities including NLP (neuro-linguistic programing), ART (accelerated resolution therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), mindfulness and yoga to help you bring your personal life, relationships and professional world back into balance.
Welcome! My name is Sarah Burnett, and I created Balance Is The Key to nurture a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in trauma and transition therapy among teens, young adults and individuals, parent coaching and child therapy. I utilize various treatment modalities including NLP (neuro-linguistic programing), ART (accelerated resolution therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), mindfulness and yoga to help you bring your personal life, relationships and professional world back into balance.
(407) 269-8443 View (407) 269-8443
Photo of Heidi M. Jackson, PhD, LMHC-S, RPT-S, ABS, Counselor
Heidi M. Jackson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC-S, RPT-S, ABS
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
For children & adolescents, my office has 3 dedicated playrooms where I utilize play, art, music, & sand tray therapies.
Specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families in the areas of trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments, navigating legal stressors, navigating stressors of chronic medical issues, & neurodevelopmental disorders (ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum). Board Certified Sex Therapist helping couples navigating trauma, sexual, medical, intimacy, and communication challenges. Licensed Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, EMDR Therapist, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Juvenile & Adult Forensic Evaluator, Qualified Parent Coordinator, and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family, County Court, and Appellate Mediator.
For children & adolescents, my office has 3 dedicated playrooms where I utilize play, art, music, & sand tray therapies.
Specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families in the areas of trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments, navigating legal stressors, navigating stressors of chronic medical issues, & neurodevelopmental disorders (ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum). Board Certified Sex Therapist helping couples navigating trauma, sexual, medical, intimacy, and communication challenges. Licensed Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, EMDR Therapist, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Juvenile & Adult Forensic Evaluator, Qualified Parent Coordinator, and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family, County Court, and Appellate Mediator.
(321) 247-9381 View (321) 247-9381
Photo of Meghan C Barnes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan C Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
I apply a creative approach to working with clients pulling from many modalities such as art therapy, journaling, yoga, mindfulness, games, music and your personal interests to help you create the life you want.
Are you living your life the way you want to or is something getting in the way? Are you looking to understand and overcome your experience with self doubt, anxiety, lack of motivation, trauma, anxiety? Let's talk about it. My passion is helping people learn their strengths and build resiliency. I provide a supportive and encouraging environment where you can learn to overcome challenges in life and begin to have a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
I apply a creative approach to working with clients pulling from many modalities such as art therapy, journaling, yoga, mindfulness, games, music and your personal interests to help you create the life you want.
Are you living your life the way you want to or is something getting in the way? Are you looking to understand and overcome your experience with self doubt, anxiety, lack of motivation, trauma, anxiety? Let's talk about it. My passion is helping people learn their strengths and build resiliency. I provide a supportive and encouraging environment where you can learn to overcome challenges in life and begin to have a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(239) 323-6498 View (239) 323-6498
Photo of Catherine Fletcher, MA, RMHCI
Catherine Fletcher
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
In addition to the services listed above, I offer career counseling, bibliotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, and various personality test's insight.
I offer weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly sessions for individuals from a variety of ages, cultures, and religions. My goal is to help individuals and families who are stuck in life due to painful experiences that have shaped them. I provide a safe and genuine space to come as you are each week and feel heard. I believe that through a trusting relationship someone can bravely face the parts of them they dislike and overcome the hurt others have caused. My sessions are focused on positive self-talk, personal growth/responsibility, holistic health, forgiveness, and making small changes that can be made to reach goals.
In addition to the services listed above, I offer career counseling, bibliotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, and various personality test's insight.
I offer weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly sessions for individuals from a variety of ages, cultures, and religions. My goal is to help individuals and families who are stuck in life due to painful experiences that have shaped them. I provide a safe and genuine space to come as you are each week and feel heard. I believe that through a trusting relationship someone can bravely face the parts of them they dislike and overcome the hurt others have caused. My sessions are focused on positive self-talk, personal growth/responsibility, holistic health, forgiveness, and making small changes that can be made to reach goals.
(689) 207-3603 View (689) 207-3603
Photo of Bella Hudson, MS, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Bella Hudson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
You might be thinking, “What is art therapy and how is it integrated?” In art therapy, we utilize the creative process to address a therapeutic goal or concern, promote change, and enhance self-reflection.
Hi I’m Bella! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Art Therapist. Are you looking to gain control over your anxious thoughts, establish healthy boundaries & improve your self-esteem? Do you want to learn healthy coping mechanisms? My unique approach integrates art therapy practice & traditional psychotherapy. I specialize in working with adolescents & adults experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem & various life transitions. As your therapist, I aim to help you recognize & reframe unhelpful thought patterns, strengthen your identity, and develop skills that will help you to move forward in confidence.
You might be thinking, “What is art therapy and how is it integrated?” In art therapy, we utilize the creative process to address a therapeutic goal or concern, promote change, and enhance self-reflection.
Hi I’m Bella! I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Art Therapist. Are you looking to gain control over your anxious thoughts, establish healthy boundaries & improve your self-esteem? Do you want to learn healthy coping mechanisms? My unique approach integrates art therapy practice & traditional psychotherapy. I specialize in working with adolescents & adults experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem & various life transitions. As your therapist, I aim to help you recognize & reframe unhelpful thought patterns, strengthen your identity, and develop skills that will help you to move forward in confidence.
(407) 618-0987 View (407) 618-0987
Photo of Rebecca Gallardo, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Gallardo
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Change and healing are possible. Whether you're feeling fearful, lonely, unfulfilled, or misunderstood, I will partner with you to work toward connection to your feelings, improved communication, and better understanding of yourself. It is not easy work, but you can do it. In my office, you will experience safety, curiosity, and non-judgement. You will learn to accept yourself, while learning new skills and healing old wounds. The world can feel overwhelming, but I believe you are stronger than your habits. Your past does not define you. You can choose to learn new ways to respond, rather than long-ago learned patterns of reaction.
Change and healing are possible. Whether you're feeling fearful, lonely, unfulfilled, or misunderstood, I will partner with you to work toward connection to your feelings, improved communication, and better understanding of yourself. It is not easy work, but you can do it. In my office, you will experience safety, curiosity, and non-judgement. You will learn to accept yourself, while learning new skills and healing old wounds. The world can feel overwhelming, but I believe you are stronger than your habits. Your past does not define you. You can choose to learn new ways to respond, rather than long-ago learned patterns of reaction.
(407) 890-8747 View (407) 890-8747
Photo of Sydney Murray, LMHC
Sydney Murray
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
My background working with adolescents is extensive and incorporates dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing to accommodate each of my client’s unique needs. I have experience in play therapy techniques such as sand tray, puppet/doll play and interpretive drawing. Play Therapy is a child's natural form of communication that reveals many hidden emotions for a child. My knowledge working with children from traumatic backgrounds, anger issues, anxiety and developmental delays allows for me to work with families to build stronger relationships.
My background working with adolescents is extensive and incorporates dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing to accommodate each of my client’s unique needs. I have experience in play therapy techniques such as sand tray, puppet/doll play and interpretive drawing. Play Therapy is a child's natural form of communication that reveals many hidden emotions for a child. My knowledge working with children from traumatic backgrounds, anger issues, anxiety and developmental delays allows for me to work with families to build stronger relationships.
(321) 306-4066 View (321) 306-4066
Photo of Alexis Goolkasian - Magnolia Wellness Therapy Associates, LMHC, PhD, Counselor
Magnolia Wellness Therapy Associates
Counselor, LMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Dr. Mimi Zhao, PhD is a clinical psychologist licensed in the state of Florida specializing in evidence-based psychotherapies for trauma related disorders and Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, chronic pain, and panic. She is certified in Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy and has a special interest in using third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, emphasizing acceptance and valued living. As a full time psychologist at the Orlando VA, Dr. Zhao is experienced in working with veterans.
Dr. Mimi Zhao, PhD is a clinical psychologist licensed in the state of Florida specializing in evidence-based psychotherapies for trauma related disorders and Borderline Personality Disorder, as well as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, chronic pain, and panic. She is certified in Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy and has a special interest in using third wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, emphasizing acceptance and valued living. As a full time psychologist at the Orlando VA, Dr. Zhao is experienced in working with veterans.
(321) 325-8411 View (321) 325-8411
Photo of Melissa Maranda, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Melissa Maranda
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
Welcome! I have been helping people navigate through life's issues for over 30 years. Whether it's anxiety, anger, depression, grief, guilt, trauma, relationships, narcissistic partners, divorce, parenting, substance abuse, sexuality, spirituality or life stress we can work together to create a path that works better for you. My practice space is private and informal. I joyfully look forward to meeting you.
Welcome! I have been helping people navigate through life's issues for over 30 years. Whether it's anxiety, anger, depression, grief, guilt, trauma, relationships, narcissistic partners, divorce, parenting, substance abuse, sexuality, spirituality or life stress we can work together to create a path that works better for you. My practice space is private and informal. I joyfully look forward to meeting you.
(563) 265-8660 View (563) 265-8660
Photo of Glenda J Brown, MA
Glenda J Brown
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
When we work to heal ourselves, we heal generations before us. I believe most people come to counseling because they are stuck in patterns that no longer serve the person they want to be. I believe a therapeutic relationship is a place of vulnerability and curiosity about yourself where we value authenticity, transparency, humor, and joy. I feel a higher calling in my life to serve people and the unique spaces they navigate; this, combined with education, and life experience assists me in guiding you to your goals. The fact that you’re here shows your resiliency and I hope to build on that awareness to enrich your journey to joy.
When we work to heal ourselves, we heal generations before us. I believe most people come to counseling because they are stuck in patterns that no longer serve the person they want to be. I believe a therapeutic relationship is a place of vulnerability and curiosity about yourself where we value authenticity, transparency, humor, and joy. I feel a higher calling in my life to serve people and the unique spaces they navigate; this, combined with education, and life experience assists me in guiding you to your goals. The fact that you’re here shows your resiliency and I hope to build on that awareness to enrich your journey to joy.
(407) 917-9619 View (407) 917-9619
Photo of Dr. Greg Nute, PhD, LCCP, CIMHP, LMHC, BCHP, Counselor
Dr. Greg Nute
Counselor, PhD, LCCP, CIMHP, LMHC, BCHP
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
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.
(407) 974-7340 View (407) 974-7340
Photo of Bryanna Imo, MA, RMHCI
Bryanna Imo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Life can be a beautiful yet challenging adventure, sometimes presenting unexpected detours and difficult terrain. As your therapist, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance and support every step of the way. In my practice, you'll find a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and authentically. Whether you're navigating daily challenges, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper personal growth, we'll work together to untangle the threads that might be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life.
Life can be a beautiful yet challenging adventure, sometimes presenting unexpected detours and difficult terrain. As your therapist, I'm here to offer compassionate guidance and support every step of the way. In my practice, you'll find a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and authentically. Whether you're navigating daily challenges, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper personal growth, we'll work together to untangle the threads that might be keeping you from living your most fulfilling life.
(407) 906-1109 View (407) 906-1109
Photo of Ivelisse Alvarez - ParenTeen Connecting Consulting, MEd
ParenTeen Connecting Consulting
MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Is your child or adolescent experiencing behavioral difficulties, academic failure, performance anxiety, mood swings, or is a victim of bullying? I specialize in CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS and families experiencing a wide variety of psychological, behavioral, academic, and relational problems. In a genuine, comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I help clients use their special unique qualities to find solutions to problems, enhance their relationships, build confidence, and develop a healthy sense of self.
(407) 901-3488 View (407) 901-3488
Photo of Christine M Hammond, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine M Hammond
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Christine is a leading mental health influencer, author, and guest speaker. As an author of the award-winning “The Exhausted Woman’s Handbook,” and more than 500 articles, Christine has more than one million people downloading her podcast “Understanding Today’s Narcissist,” and more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Christine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor by the State of Florida, a National Certified Counselor, Certified Family Trauma Professional, with extensive training in crisis intervention and peaceful resolution.
Christine is a leading mental health influencer, author, and guest speaker. As an author of the award-winning “The Exhausted Woman’s Handbook,” and more than 500 articles, Christine has more than one million people downloading her podcast “Understanding Today’s Narcissist,” and more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Christine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor by the State of Florida, a National Certified Counselor, Certified Family Trauma Professional, with extensive training in crisis intervention and peaceful resolution.
(407) 603-3232 View (407) 603-3232
Photo of Sydney Willis, MSW, RCSWI
Sydney Willis
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
I would be honored to be p art of your journey to happiness and healing.
I have known since I was quite young that my purpose in life is to assist others. I embrace the belief that every individual is deserving of kindness, love, and compassion and I feel incredibly grateful to be p art of my client’s healing journey to happiness. I also deeply believe that in order for my clients to progress quickly, they require a safe, compassionate space to express themselves freely and authentically without fear of judgment or criticism. My goals are always to make sure that each and every client feels seen, heard, and honored.
I would be honored to be p art of your journey to happiness and healing.
I have known since I was quite young that my purpose in life is to assist others. I embrace the belief that every individual is deserving of kindness, love, and compassion and I feel incredibly grateful to be p art of my client’s healing journey to happiness. I also deeply believe that in order for my clients to progress quickly, they require a safe, compassionate space to express themselves freely and authentically without fear of judgment or criticism. My goals are always to make sure that each and every client feels seen, heard, and honored.
(321) 635-1237 x110 View (321) 635-1237 x110
Photo of Ilysa Strassler, MA, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ilysa Strassler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32792
Sometimes carrying the weight of all our responsibilities can feel like drowning. If you feel as if the only thing you’re doing is treading water then I welcome you to Sea of Serenity Counseling. If this is your first time looking for a therapist, I applaud your bravery and courage. If this is a continuation of your journey, I am honored to help you take those next steps. I am currently trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in working with the LGBTQA+ population and adolescents. I welcome people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations.
Sometimes carrying the weight of all our responsibilities can feel like drowning. If you feel as if the only thing you’re doing is treading water then I welcome you to Sea of Serenity Counseling. If this is your first time looking for a therapist, I applaud your bravery and courage. If this is a continuation of your journey, I am honored to help you take those next steps. I am currently trained to work with individuals, couples, and families. I specialize in working with the LGBTQA+ population and adolescents. I welcome people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations.
(407) 214-5349 View (407) 214-5349
1

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

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

Does art therapy help with trauma?

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

How long does art therapy last?

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

What are the limitations of art therapy?

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