Expressive Arts Therapists in Big Rock, IL

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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Vause, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melanie Vause
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Grove, IL 60554
I love supporting clients through journeys of self-discovery of all kinds, and I am passionate about the support I provide. I am working towards specializations in depression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), Trauma, Adjustment/Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ Support, Relationship Concerns, Caregiver Support, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I work with adolescents and adults. I I have spent most of my professional career thus far specializing in supporting adolescents who hold marginalized sexual and/or gender identities and I find great joy and purpose in doing so.
I love supporting clients through journeys of self-discovery of all kinds, and I am passionate about the support I provide. I am working towards specializations in depression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), Trauma, Adjustment/Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ Support, Relationship Concerns, Caregiver Support, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I work with adolescents and adults. I I have spent most of my professional career thus far specializing in supporting adolescents who hold marginalized sexual and/or gender identities and I find great joy and purpose in doing so.
(331) 313-5191 View (331) 313-5191
Photo of Kristina Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
Hello! I'm really glad you are here. It shows you are ready to take a step forward in your healing journey. I believe no two clients are alike therefore each session with me will be a unique experience. During our time together, you are in control and I’m merely a guide assisting you on your journey. I am there to light the way by not only providing support and validation but also to share the tools I’ve picked up along the way.
(331) 258-8652 View (331) 258-8652
Photo of Cloie Mcphail, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cloie Mcphail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
(331) 215-8415 View (331) 215-8415

Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Boillot, LCPC, Counselor
Laura Boillot
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I enjoy integrating creativity and expressive arts as ways to explore and self-reflect.
I have provided therapy for individuals impacted by abuse and complex trauma for over ten years and practice with the intention of creating a safe and affirming space that can support healing and develop trust. I am passionate about embracing how mind, body and emotional wellness are connected in the therapy process. That said, I value transparency and collaboration in finding the right fit or approach so that we can ensure your needs are met. I provide individual services and especially enjoy exploring life transitions, family of origin issues and women's issues.
I enjoy integrating creativity and expressive arts as ways to explore and self-reflect.
I have provided therapy for individuals impacted by abuse and complex trauma for over ten years and practice with the intention of creating a safe and affirming space that can support healing and develop trust. I am passionate about embracing how mind, body and emotional wellness are connected in the therapy process. That said, I value transparency and collaboration in finding the right fit or approach so that we can ensure your needs are met. I provide individual services and especially enjoy exploring life transitions, family of origin issues and women's issues.
(630) 315-0569 View (630) 315-0569
Photo of Amy Graham, LPC, ATR, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist in Chicago, IL. My holistic framework and creative process supports the whole person improving physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well being. Combining Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts therapies and EMDR, I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space to gently explore the underlying causes of symptoms, expand self-awareness, learn valuable coping skills, embrace self-compassion, connect the mind and body, and rewrite your past narrative. All of you is welcome here!
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist in Chicago, IL. My holistic framework and creative process supports the whole person improving physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well being. Combining Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts therapies and EMDR, I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space to gently explore the underlying causes of symptoms, expand self-awareness, learn valuable coping skills, embrace self-compassion, connect the mind and body, and rewrite your past narrative. All of you is welcome here!
(312) 675-4685 View (312) 675-4685
Photo of Julie E Key, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie E Key
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach, and incorporate techniques used in relational, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, expressive arts, mindfulness, and narrative therapies.
It can be difficult to ask for help in today's society, and even more difficult to find the best fit in a therapist. As a trauma-informed queer biracial therapist, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My clinical background includes work with individuals managing co-occurring disorders, difficulties related to identity (e.g. racial, cultural, gender, spirituality), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Autism, Trauma, PTSD, and grief. I work with individuals and couples at any point in their lifespan, though my background has primarily focused on young adults and families.
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach, and incorporate techniques used in relational, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, expressive arts, mindfulness, and narrative therapies.
It can be difficult to ask for help in today's society, and even more difficult to find the best fit in a therapist. As a trauma-informed queer biracial therapist, I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My clinical background includes work with individuals managing co-occurring disorders, difficulties related to identity (e.g. racial, cultural, gender, spirituality), Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Autism, Trauma, PTSD, and grief. I work with individuals and couples at any point in their lifespan, though my background has primarily focused on young adults and families.
(872) 259-6180 View (872) 259-6180
Photo of Lauren Appelson, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Appelson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am a Licensed Social Worker committed to providing care to adults and teenagers. Together, we'll uncover your strengths and set therapeutic goals. I utilize a variety of approaches in therapy, such as exploring attachment, coping skills, mindfulness, and expressive arts, to aid in identity exploration and emotional processing.
I am a Licensed Social Worker committed to providing care to adults and teenagers. Together, we'll uncover your strengths and set therapeutic goals. I utilize a variety of approaches in therapy, such as exploring attachment, coping skills, mindfulness, and expressive arts, to aid in identity exploration and emotional processing.
(773) 692-4286 View (773) 692-4286
Photo of Jill Davis-Kuzmanich - Enriching Wellness LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Enriching Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. At Enriching Wellness, LLC, we promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and adoption of new perspectives and reactions through the process of self-discovery and empowerment. With a team of diverse clinicians, we facilitate communication using a neuroscience approach through individual therapy, family therapy, EMDR therapy, sandtray therapy, and expressive arts therapy. No two sessions will ever be the same as we provide you the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
Whatever your needs may be, we are here to offer support. At Enriching Wellness, LLC, we promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and adoption of new perspectives and reactions through the process of self-discovery and empowerment. With a team of diverse clinicians, we facilitate communication using a neuroscience approach through individual therapy, family therapy, EMDR therapy, sandtray therapy, and expressive arts therapy. No two sessions will ever be the same as we provide you the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
(815) 998-8675 View (815) 998-8675
Photo of Yi Chen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yi Chen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
My practice is multicultural, and I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and expressive arts, to help you find new meanings in live.
Hello! I’m Yi, a bilingual LPC therapist in Chicago. We all face challenges that can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck. During these times, it’s easy to feel like everything is slipping out of control. You don’t have to go through it alone—I’m here to help you navigate those feelings and find your way forward. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and uncover the resources within you to manage life’s ups and downs. My approach is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be yourself, grow, and build the the confidence and resilience you need to thrive.
My practice is multicultural, and I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities, including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and expressive arts, to help you find new meanings in live.
Hello! I’m Yi, a bilingual LPC therapist in Chicago. We all face challenges that can leave us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck. During these times, it’s easy to feel like everything is slipping out of control. You don’t have to go through it alone—I’m here to help you navigate those feelings and find your way forward. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and uncover the resources within you to manage life’s ups and downs. My approach is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can be yourself, grow, and build the the confidence and resilience you need to thrive.
(773) 300-4930 View (773) 300-4930
Photo of Cinthia Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cinthia Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
I specialize in Latino mental health and provide a trauma-informed approach through talk, play, and expressive arts-based therapies.
Hello, I’m Cinthia, a bilingual, first-generation Mexican American therapist and proud Chicago native. My practice is dedicated to helping youth, young adults, and their families navigate childhood trauma, behavioral challenges, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I deeply understand the unique experiences of Latino families and offer strengths-based, collaborative, and culturally affirming therapy that respects and honors your values.
I specialize in Latino mental health and provide a trauma-informed approach through talk, play, and expressive arts-based therapies.
Hello, I’m Cinthia, a bilingual, first-generation Mexican American therapist and proud Chicago native. My practice is dedicated to helping youth, young adults, and their families navigate childhood trauma, behavioral challenges, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I deeply understand the unique experiences of Latino families and offer strengths-based, collaborative, and culturally affirming therapy that respects and honors your values.
(773) 232-0376 View (773) 232-0376
Photo of Meridith Oliver, MA, LCPC, RDT, LCAT, Counselor
Meridith Oliver
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RDT, LCAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based, incorporating expressive arts therapies.
Are you struggling to manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or stress? Are you experiencing increased stressors due to life transitions or relationship concerns? I can help you gain skills to manage your stressors, discover your inner strengths, and support you in making positive changes. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages struggling with managing distressing emotions, stressful life transitions, and challenging interpersonal relationships.
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based, incorporating expressive arts therapies.
Are you struggling to manage feelings of anxiety, depression, anger or stress? Are you experiencing increased stressors due to life transitions or relationship concerns? I can help you gain skills to manage your stressors, discover your inner strengths, and support you in making positive changes. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages struggling with managing distressing emotions, stressful life transitions, and challenging interpersonal relationships.
(312) 376-0389 View (312) 376-0389
Photo of Dee Crowley, LCSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dee Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Along with traditional talk therapy, I teach useful skills via evidence based modalities such as meditation, breath awareness, imagery, expressive arts and physical postures (yoga) to facilitate awareness and personal growth.
If you are motivated to show up for YOURSELF in a new way I am here as your trusted ally on this sacred journey of life! As a Holistic Psychotherapist, it is my passion to accompany you as you invite your full self; body, mind and intuitive/wisdom center into the therapeutic process--creating opportunities for insights into thoughts, emotions and behaviors that support and empower you. I have extensive experience working with individuals seeking healing and peace from issues related to trauma and abuse, mood management, disordered eating, loss and grief, relationship challenges and personal/spiritual fulfillment.
Along with traditional talk therapy, I teach useful skills via evidence based modalities such as meditation, breath awareness, imagery, expressive arts and physical postures (yoga) to facilitate awareness and personal growth.
If you are motivated to show up for YOURSELF in a new way I am here as your trusted ally on this sacred journey of life! As a Holistic Psychotherapist, it is my passion to accompany you as you invite your full self; body, mind and intuitive/wisdom center into the therapeutic process--creating opportunities for insights into thoughts, emotions and behaviors that support and empower you. I have extensive experience working with individuals seeking healing and peace from issues related to trauma and abuse, mood management, disordered eating, loss and grief, relationship challenges and personal/spiritual fulfillment.
(847) 379-1044 View (847) 379-1044
Photo of Shanel Jackson, MA, LPC, REAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanel Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, REAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
As a holistic counselor and expressive arts therapist, my work with clients takes the whole person, mind, body and spirit into consideration.
Perhaps you feel stuck, with no clear sense of purpose and don’t know the next steps to move forward in your life. Or your environment is not supportive, and you feel disconnected, frustrated and unheard in your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or emotional wounds caused by racism, sexism, homophobia or other forms of oppression. And maybe you aren't even sure what the problem is, you just know things aren't working. I am here to support you in creating deep and meaningful change, so you can live the authentic and empowering life that you deserve to have.
As a holistic counselor and expressive arts therapist, my work with clients takes the whole person, mind, body and spirit into consideration.
Perhaps you feel stuck, with no clear sense of purpose and don’t know the next steps to move forward in your life. Or your environment is not supportive, and you feel disconnected, frustrated and unheard in your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or emotional wounds caused by racism, sexism, homophobia or other forms of oppression. And maybe you aren't even sure what the problem is, you just know things aren't working. I am here to support you in creating deep and meaningful change, so you can live the authentic and empowering life that you deserve to have.
(312) 629-4984 View (312) 629-4984
Photo of Dacia Slater, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dacia Slater
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
As a mental health professional I believe strongly in person centered work. I specialize in doing healing work that is centered on the individual. I am a new clinician but have over two years experience working with kids and families, the expressive arts, and diverse populations. I have worked with students k-12 with anxiety, self esteem, identity, and school/ learning environment support.
As a mental health professional I believe strongly in person centered work. I specialize in doing healing work that is centered on the individual. I am a new clinician but have over two years experience working with kids and families, the expressive arts, and diverse populations. I have worked with students k-12 with anxiety, self esteem, identity, and school/ learning environment support.
(872) 313-5460 View (872) 313-5460
Photo of Tanya Virginia Kavicky-Mels - Soul Glue Therapy, LLC, MA, LMFT, REAT, BC-TMH, CIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Soul Glue Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, REAT, BC-TMH, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148  (Online Only)
I bring a unique blend of mind-body-spirit techniques with expressive arts experiences.
Are you looking for something different in your therapy experience? You've been to therapy and gained your self-awareness skills. Yet, you feel deep in your bones that something is missing. You’re looking for a genuine connection to help you transform. You feel stuck and know you want more but can't pinpoint what's wrong. You’ve been doing the 'supposed' right thing and are back at square one. You want to find a way to express yourself, but you’re thinking: “I'm too much, or I can't say what I feel; they might leave” You want to let go of the worry that keeps you from being your real self. You're ready for long-lasting change.
I bring a unique blend of mind-body-spirit techniques with expressive arts experiences.
Are you looking for something different in your therapy experience? You've been to therapy and gained your self-awareness skills. Yet, you feel deep in your bones that something is missing. You’re looking for a genuine connection to help you transform. You feel stuck and know you want more but can't pinpoint what's wrong. You’ve been doing the 'supposed' right thing and are back at square one. You want to find a way to express yourself, but you’re thinking: “I'm too much, or I can't say what I feel; they might leave” You want to let go of the worry that keeps you from being your real self. You're ready for long-lasting change.
(262) 300-8056 View (262) 300-8056
Photo of Salvador Francisco Garza, Pre-Licensed Professional
Salvador Francisco Garza
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
As an expressive arts therapist, I use music, imagery, art making, metaphor, and storytelling to help you tap into these resources as a means to healing and transformation.
Oftentimes, the heaviness of daily life can make us feel stuck and trapped in the same patterns that are no longer working. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, I believe in tuning in to innate creativity for solutions. Every individual possesses the tools for creative expression. When big existential questions and decisions arise, I am here to help facilitate the exploration and imagining of infinite possibilities, with the aim of finding clarity around what authentically serves you.
As an expressive arts therapist, I use music, imagery, art making, metaphor, and storytelling to help you tap into these resources as a means to healing and transformation.
Oftentimes, the heaviness of daily life can make us feel stuck and trapped in the same patterns that are no longer working. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, I believe in tuning in to innate creativity for solutions. Every individual possesses the tools for creative expression. When big existential questions and decisions arise, I am here to help facilitate the exploration and imagining of infinite possibilities, with the aim of finding clarity around what authentically serves you.
(872) 304-5329 View (872) 304-5329
Photo of Neelima D. Prabhala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neelima D. Prabhala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
Therapy is hard work but it’s worth it because it starts with choosing yourself and being intentional about how you want to live your life. While we may come to therapy in a time of hardship, we all have strengths that we can use a foundation for growth. There’s no one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach so I use a blend of approaches including DBT, CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and Play/Narrative therapies. I also understand how systemic forces shape our realities, and I help clients recognize these forces and develop skills to cope.
(630) 793-0942 View (630) 793-0942
Photo of Vanessa Rae De Leon - The Good Life, LCPC, BC-DMT
The Good Life
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
(847) 499-1407 View (847) 499-1407
Photo of Eve Brownstone, MA, LCPC, CP, Counselor
Eve Brownstone
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey Eve's clients prefer a more creative approach using our Expressive Arts Therapy to find their voice and connect with their feelings and emotions.
Unlock Your Inner Creativity and Heal Are you seeking deeper self-awareness, self-love, and acceptance? Whether you're navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or looking to express yourself creatively, therapy can guide you on your journey. Eve Brownstone specializes in helping clients tap into their creative souls through art therapy, dance, guided imagery, and more. Discover how these expressive tools can illuminate your path to healing and empowerment.
Compassionate Guide on Your Healing Journey Eve's clients prefer a more creative approach using our Expressive Arts Therapy to find their voice and connect with their feelings and emotions.
Unlock Your Inner Creativity and Heal Are you seeking deeper self-awareness, self-love, and acceptance? Whether you're navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or looking to express yourself creatively, therapy can guide you on your journey. Eve Brownstone specializes in helping clients tap into their creative souls through art therapy, dance, guided imagery, and more. Discover how these expressive tools can illuminate your path to healing and empowerment.
(773) 300-5802 View (773) 300-5802
Photo of Laura J Wolfe, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Laura J Wolfe
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I offer a strengths-based, integrative approach, which also includes expressive arts therapy and the Gottman method for couples, where appropriate.
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
I offer a strengths-based, integrative approach, which also includes expressive arts therapy and the Gottman method for couples, where appropriate.
An Invitation to come as you are...Sometimes it's easy to forget or move away from who you are and your story. There are many life circumstances that may impact and influence how you feel about and perceive yourself as well as others. Shame, guilt, fear, anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness, illness, grief, loss and broken relationships are a part of many peoples' life stories yet sometimes it can be difficult to accept those parts of one's journey. I invite you to come with all the pieces of who you are and share your story.
(708) 462-4967 View (708) 462-4967
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.