Art Therapy in Decatur, GA

Photo of Elise Roche, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elise Roche
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
I also do art workshops, parenting support, and run Art Therapy Groups for teens at my practice.
I have spent my career supporting families and adolescents facing challenges with...well, adolescence. People who never felt "just like everyone else" or dealt with a lot of negative self talk are those who I love supporting most. I am an art therapist as well as a licensed professional counselor, and that means we have a lot of options in our tool box to find what works best for you. What is most important to me is making sure you feel heard, comfortable, and safe (and maybe even laugh once or twice)! I also see young adults/college age clients as they continue to navigate "growing up".
I also do art workshops, parenting support, and run Art Therapy Groups for teens at my practice.
I have spent my career supporting families and adolescents facing challenges with...well, adolescence. People who never felt "just like everyone else" or dealt with a lot of negative self talk are those who I love supporting most. I am an art therapist as well as a licensed professional counselor, and that means we have a lot of options in our tool box to find what works best for you. What is most important to me is making sure you feel heard, comfortable, and safe (and maybe even laugh once or twice)! I also see young adults/college age clients as they continue to navigate "growing up".
(404) 924-4189 View (404) 924-4189
Photo of Djuana Swift, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Djuana Swift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
In sessions, I will assist clients in managing problems to lead productive lives by using a variety of techniques, including art work, mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy.
Managing the challenges of life takes skill that both children and adults have to learn. I enjoy helping people gain insight into their behaviors and enhance their skills for overcoming problems in positive ways. My goal is to help people learn to manage their emotions and behaviors, help individuals break the cycle of abuse and violence, and help people foster healthy relationships. I provide compassion while helping people find their inner strength and resources for adjusting to the challenges of life.
In sessions, I will assist clients in managing problems to lead productive lives by using a variety of techniques, including art work, mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy.
Managing the challenges of life takes skill that both children and adults have to learn. I enjoy helping people gain insight into their behaviors and enhance their skills for overcoming problems in positive ways. My goal is to help people learn to manage their emotions and behaviors, help individuals break the cycle of abuse and violence, and help people foster healthy relationships. I provide compassion while helping people find their inner strength and resources for adjusting to the challenges of life.
(404) 998-5235 View (404) 998-5235
Photo of Owen Clark, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Owen Clark
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
My approach is dynamic, and in addition to traditional talk therapy, I'm also passionate about incorporating art therapy, play therapy, and recreational therapy into sessions.
Finding a place where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued is hard. Maybe you're seeking a safe, understanding place to explore your identity or struggles with someone who "gets it." No matter what brings you here, I'm glad you're here. Together, we will create a space where your whole, authentic self is welcomed, affirmed, and valued. You won't encounter judgment or someone telling you who you "should" be in this space. Instead, I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that your experiences, relationships, and traumas have profoundly shaped you.
My approach is dynamic, and in addition to traditional talk therapy, I'm also passionate about incorporating art therapy, play therapy, and recreational therapy into sessions.
Finding a place where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and valued is hard. Maybe you're seeking a safe, understanding place to explore your identity or struggles with someone who "gets it." No matter what brings you here, I'm glad you're here. Together, we will create a space where your whole, authentic self is welcomed, affirmed, and valued. You won't encounter judgment or someone telling you who you "should" be in this space. Instead, I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that your experiences, relationships, and traumas have profoundly shaped you.
(470) 613-8459 View (470) 613-8459
Photo of Megan Bryant, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
Art therapy may look like just a fun creative process, but it is an effective therapeutic technique that utilizes the creative process to help improve the mental health and emotional well-being of people of all ages. Discovering healthy and creative forms of expression is empowering for those who find a voice through the creative processes of making art. I believe in a positive, holistic, and gentle approach that honors the individual and encourages healing and personal growth. During our time together, I help you and/or your child explore yourself in this safe space beyond language and conversation.
Art therapy may look like just a fun creative process, but it is an effective therapeutic technique that utilizes the creative process to help improve the mental health and emotional well-being of people of all ages. Discovering healthy and creative forms of expression is empowering for those who find a voice through the creative processes of making art. I believe in a positive, holistic, and gentle approach that honors the individual and encourages healing and personal growth. During our time together, I help you and/or your child explore yourself in this safe space beyond language and conversation.
(404) 738-6566 View (404) 738-6566
Photo of Christen Anglin, EdS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christen Anglin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032
Waitlist for new clients
When working with children, I most often use play and expressive art therapies.
Congratulations! You have made the brave decision to seek therapy for your child! It is not always easy to recognize or accept that something in your child's life is not going the way that you would like and needs to change. If your child is struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, managing life’s stressors, or navigating emotions that sometimes feel too big and overwhelming, I can help. I work with children and adolescents to develop healthy coping skills to positively impact their thoughts, behaviors, and actions. I also work with families to improve or enhance the parent child relationship
When working with children, I most often use play and expressive art therapies.
Congratulations! You have made the brave decision to seek therapy for your child! It is not always easy to recognize or accept that something in your child's life is not going the way that you would like and needs to change. If your child is struggling with maintaining healthy relationships, managing life’s stressors, or navigating emotions that sometimes feel too big and overwhelming, I can help. I work with children and adolescents to develop healthy coping skills to positively impact their thoughts, behaviors, and actions. I also work with families to improve or enhance the parent child relationship
(678) 257-3573 View (678) 257-3573
Photo of Dr. Tiffany P. Brooks, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tiffany P. Brooks
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
, art or journaling) in her clinical work.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I value helping clients with all aspects of your identity (i.e. race, sexuality, career, faith, social support, etc) and, of course, most mental health diagnoses. If you want to connect relationally, and be the expert on your experience, including your personality, strengths, and value systems, then I can help you. If you need clarification on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, then we can begin to uncover how they are intertwined. As you reframe your thoughts and acknowledge your feelings, then your behaviors can begin to change.
, art or journaling) in her clinical work.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults. I value helping clients with all aspects of your identity (i.e. race, sexuality, career, faith, social support, etc) and, of course, most mental health diagnoses. If you want to connect relationally, and be the expert on your experience, including your personality, strengths, and value systems, then I can help you. If you need clarification on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, then we can begin to uncover how they are intertwined. As you reframe your thoughts and acknowledge your feelings, then your behaviors can begin to change.
(706) 230-6842 View (706) 230-6842
Photo of Dr. Rosa Ashe-Turner, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Rosa Ashe-Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you have been working through your areas of trauma for some time now, but they seem to keep returning time and time again..., leaving you exhausted, bewildered and feeling stuck. What if some intensive Psychotherapy work could be useful in helping you to break through some of those barriers? Sometimes an hour once or twice per month is just not enough. Indulge yourself in two, three, or five hours of intensive therapy designed especially to address your own deep and complex experiences of concern. Our time together may include Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Art Therapy, Writing, talk therapy and other forms of creative therapies.
Perhaps you have been working through your areas of trauma for some time now, but they seem to keep returning time and time again..., leaving you exhausted, bewildered and feeling stuck. What if some intensive Psychotherapy work could be useful in helping you to break through some of those barriers? Sometimes an hour once or twice per month is just not enough. Indulge yourself in two, three, or five hours of intensive therapy designed especially to address your own deep and complex experiences of concern. Our time together may include Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Art Therapy, Writing, talk therapy and other forms of creative therapies.
(678) 394-3510 View (678) 394-3510
Photo of Shannon Fraser, LPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Shannon Fraser
Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I utilize mindfulness-based practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and art therapy for a unique and dynamic experience.
We are capable of far more than we realize. Often, we limit ourselves through worn out narratives surrounding shameful experiences and perceived faults. What we need is a new perspective and ways to rewrite our stories that empower us to move forward with purpose. I work with teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and challenging life transitions, amongst other issues. I support clients to build inner resources, gain self-compassion, and become empowered individuals.
I utilize mindfulness-based practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and art therapy for a unique and dynamic experience.
We are capable of far more than we realize. Often, we limit ourselves through worn out narratives surrounding shameful experiences and perceived faults. What we need is a new perspective and ways to rewrite our stories that empower us to move forward with purpose. I work with teens and adults navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and challenging life transitions, amongst other issues. I support clients to build inner resources, gain self-compassion, and become empowered individuals.
(404) 800-1651 View (404) 800-1651
Photo of Gabrielle Parker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I enjoy incorporating art, movement, music, mindfulness, and storytelling into my work with children and families.
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, families, teenagers, and adults who have a history of depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, trauma, and family issues. I have a passion for supporting children and families through supportive relationships and the healing power of play. I wholeheartedly believe individuals deserve a safe, empathetic and genuine space to deal with life’s challenges.
I enjoy incorporating art, movement, music, mindfulness, and storytelling into my work with children and families.
​I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with children, families, teenagers, and adults who have a history of depression, anxiety, behavioral concerns, trauma, and family issues. I have a passion for supporting children and families through supportive relationships and the healing power of play. I wholeheartedly believe individuals deserve a safe, empathetic and genuine space to deal with life’s challenges.
(678) 833-3942 View (678) 833-3942
Photo of Shemeah Richardson, LPC, MEd, MS, BHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shemeah Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MS, BHP
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Shemeah is trained in Solution Focused Therapy, Play therapy, Art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Diversity and Affirmative Therapy, Mindfulness and Trauma informed care.
Yes, it is crazy “out there” and sometimes the “crazy” within makes it difficult to discern where one ends and the other begins. “It’s overwhelming, I don’t know why…It wasn’t always like this.” “I find myself frozen in the middle of it all wondering where I fit in, what’s it all about?” “Why am I here?” “I don’t know who I am.” Let’s talk…using a variety of therapeutic approaches together we can move through and process the events, situations, experiences, etc. that have you immobilized. I believe in treating the whole person and employing different therapeutic modalities based on what aligns with you and your needs.
Shemeah is trained in Solution Focused Therapy, Play therapy, Art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Diversity and Affirmative Therapy, Mindfulness and Trauma informed care.
Yes, it is crazy “out there” and sometimes the “crazy” within makes it difficult to discern where one ends and the other begins. “It’s overwhelming, I don’t know why…It wasn’t always like this.” “I find myself frozen in the middle of it all wondering where I fit in, what’s it all about?” “Why am I here?” “I don’t know who I am.” Let’s talk…using a variety of therapeutic approaches together we can move through and process the events, situations, experiences, etc. that have you immobilized. I believe in treating the whole person and employing different therapeutic modalities based on what aligns with you and your needs.
(970) 438-2507 View (970) 438-2507
Photo of Rowan Crawfish, ART-P, APC, Counselor
Rowan Crawfish
Counselor, ART-P, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
No art experience or skill is needed for art therapy! Reach out today for a free consultation to discuss how we can work together!.
You deserve to feel validated and supported as you are. My goal as a LGBTQIA2S+, neurodiverse, larger bodied therapist, is to provide an inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual identities, genders, abilities, races, ages, and body size. I foster a warm & open space free from judgment. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to walk beside you on your journey. ​My approach to counseling is to support you as a whole person navigate the systems that are affecting you. While much of my work includes art therapy and a holistic approach, we will work together to find what will work best for you.
No art experience or skill is needed for art therapy! Reach out today for a free consultation to discuss how we can work together!.
You deserve to feel validated and supported as you are. My goal as a LGBTQIA2S+, neurodiverse, larger bodied therapist, is to provide an inclusive environment for individuals of all sexual identities, genders, abilities, races, ages, and body size. I foster a warm & open space free from judgment. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to walk beside you on your journey. ​My approach to counseling is to support you as a whole person navigate the systems that are affecting you. While much of my work includes art therapy and a holistic approach, we will work together to find what will work best for you.
(912) 214-8182 View (912) 214-8182
Photo of Eileen Marie Pagán, MAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eileen Marie Pagán
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
As an Art Therapist, I believe in the power of expression as a form of healing.
No matter what phase you are in life at this moment, taking a step towards healing is a brave act and you are inherently worth that investment. I believe that there is liberation in learning to love and accept yourself completely. Together, we will unpack what traumas you may be holding in your body to build more meaningful and healthier relationships not only to yourself, but to those around you. The journey to living your most authentic self can be challenging, and together I can offer a brave space to explore what that looks like for you.
As an Art Therapist, I believe in the power of expression as a form of healing.
No matter what phase you are in life at this moment, taking a step towards healing is a brave act and you are inherently worth that investment. I believe that there is liberation in learning to love and accept yourself completely. Together, we will unpack what traumas you may be holding in your body to build more meaningful and healthier relationships not only to yourself, but to those around you. The journey to living your most authentic self can be challenging, and together I can offer a brave space to explore what that looks like for you.
(404) 850-0283 View (404) 850-0283
Photo of Thomas B Kronemberg, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Thomas B Kronemberg
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I am friendly, compassionate, and down to earth; dedicated to ensuring that each client receives the best care possible. Since I believe that each person is unique, I utilize various types of treatment modalities to promote healing and growth including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MIT), and play therapy. I have experience working with a number of mental health and emotional concerns, including anxiety, depression, loss and grief, family dysfunction, anger management, substance abuse, pre-marital/marriage counseling, parenting education and men’s issues.
I am friendly, compassionate, and down to earth; dedicated to ensuring that each client receives the best care possible. Since I believe that each person is unique, I utilize various types of treatment modalities to promote healing and growth including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MIT), and play therapy. I have experience working with a number of mental health and emotional concerns, including anxiety, depression, loss and grief, family dysfunction, anger management, substance abuse, pre-marital/marriage counseling, parenting education and men’s issues.
(470) 232-0266 View (470) 232-0266
Photo of Abbie Becker, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbie Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Hello & welcome! My passion lies with assisting individuals who have challenges with anxiety, depression, mood instability, medical trauma, life-transitions, under-controlled and over-controlled traits, women’s health, belongingness, and self-esteem. Through my work-related experiences at 3 residential programs, a non-profit, and private practice, it has truly been a privilege aiding diverse populations. They never fail to show me that no one is too broken, hopeless, or unworthy of having a life that is worth living.
Hello & welcome! My passion lies with assisting individuals who have challenges with anxiety, depression, mood instability, medical trauma, life-transitions, under-controlled and over-controlled traits, women’s health, belongingness, and self-esteem. Through my work-related experiences at 3 residential programs, a non-profit, and private practice, it has truly been a privilege aiding diverse populations. They never fail to show me that no one is too broken, hopeless, or unworthy of having a life that is worth living.
(404) 390-4678 View (404) 390-4678
Photo of Lance Madow, MS, APC, NCC, CGT
Lance Madow
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, APC, NCC, CGT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
(470) 748-6915 View (470) 748-6915
Photo of Kishla Preston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kishla Preston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kishla Preston and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. I have been practicing for the past 9 years and have loved every moment of it. I have had the heart to help others since the age of 10. So much so, that, in high school, I ended up taking custody of the 2-month-old child of a family friend until he was age 2, while his mother gained stability. That be said, I have a special place in my heart for children, young adults and mothers. My personal goal for every client I meet is to make their lives a little bit better than it was before we found one another.
Hello! My name is Kishla Preston and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. I have been practicing for the past 9 years and have loved every moment of it. I have had the heart to help others since the age of 10. So much so, that, in high school, I ended up taking custody of the 2-month-old child of a family friend until he was age 2, while his mother gained stability. That be said, I have a special place in my heart for children, young adults and mothers. My personal goal for every client I meet is to make their lives a little bit better than it was before we found one another.
(404) 390-4553 View (404) 390-4553
Photo of Christina Carrick, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Carrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
"It's a privilege to be able to bear witness to someone's story when they may not have had the chance to tell it before." - Lindy Alexander. I believe in the celebration of baby steps, because they lead to growth, evolving, and newfound strength. I provide a space absent of judgment, and full of empathy. Are you a parent struggling to understand your child's feelings and behaviors? I can provide space for both parenting strategies and the child's expression of emotions through play. Are you an adult struggling with difficult life stressors and past trauma? I can provide the emotional space necessary for clarity and peace.
"It's a privilege to be able to bear witness to someone's story when they may not have had the chance to tell it before." - Lindy Alexander. I believe in the celebration of baby steps, because they lead to growth, evolving, and newfound strength. I provide a space absent of judgment, and full of empathy. Are you a parent struggling to understand your child's feelings and behaviors? I can provide space for both parenting strategies and the child's expression of emotions through play. Are you an adult struggling with difficult life stressors and past trauma? I can provide the emotional space necessary for clarity and peace.
(678) 345-6031 View (678) 345-6031
Photo of Miranda Barzey, LAPC, CRC, Counselor
Miranda Barzey
Counselor, LAPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30032
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
(404) 738-6484 View (404) 738-6484
Photo of Cathy Zedd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Zedd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Because children do not come with a handbook, parents are often wondering if they are parenting correctly. Sometimes your house and your relationships can feel strained due to the challenges of parenting. Parents can feel as if the child is in charge of the emotional barometer of the house. Most parents at some point experience feelings of being overwhelmed and not knowing how to be effective and supportive at the same time. Therapy is a way of taking those first steps toward making positive changes for yourself and your family. By making small changes, you will be able to enjoy a more fulfilling parenting experience.
Because children do not come with a handbook, parents are often wondering if they are parenting correctly. Sometimes your house and your relationships can feel strained due to the challenges of parenting. Parents can feel as if the child is in charge of the emotional barometer of the house. Most parents at some point experience feelings of being overwhelmed and not knowing how to be effective and supportive at the same time. Therapy is a way of taking those first steps toward making positive changes for yourself and your family. By making small changes, you will be able to enjoy a more fulfilling parenting experience.
(678) 563-6227 View (678) 563-6227
Photo of Iolanda L Da Luz, Counselor
Iolanda L Da Luz
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
(678) 619-0726 View (678) 619-0726
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.