Expressive Arts Therapists in Somerville, MA

Photo of Melissa Nilles, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Nilles
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a person-centered expressive arts therapist and mental health counselor with a kind, reflective ear and evidence-based skills training to offer as well as out of the box creative interventions to match whatever you bring into sessions.
I support men, women, and non-binary and transgender folx with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, or a history of trauma on their journey to build a better relationship with themselves, learn helpful mental health survival skills, and unlock their true potential. I also help artists, musicians, writers, poets, philosophers, and all creative types who are building creative careers or juggling multiple careers to explore interests, hone their path, work with a complicated world, and get out of their own way to enjoy greater creative engagement and personal freedom. I help my clients break down barriers of shame & self-doubt and find their supports.
I am a person-centered expressive arts therapist and mental health counselor with a kind, reflective ear and evidence-based skills training to offer as well as out of the box creative interventions to match whatever you bring into sessions.
I support men, women, and non-binary and transgender folx with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, or a history of trauma on their journey to build a better relationship with themselves, learn helpful mental health survival skills, and unlock their true potential. I also help artists, musicians, writers, poets, philosophers, and all creative types who are building creative careers or juggling multiple careers to explore interests, hone their path, work with a complicated world, and get out of their own way to enjoy greater creative engagement and personal freedom. I help my clients break down barriers of shame & self-doubt and find their supports.
(617) 644-4757 View (617) 644-4757
Photo of Akshita Desore, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Akshita Desore
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Expressive Arts Therapy from Lesley University.
Akshita Desore is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers Tele-therapy. She works with individuals across the lifespan with a focus on young adults. Most of her work involves working with clients facing life transitions, anxiety, grief/loss, and self-doubt. Akshita is particularly passionate about serving students, working professionals, and immigrants.Akshita’s approach is rooted in Expressive Arts Therapy, the use of arts to reconnect with our creativity and use our intuition and imagination. She works with clients to explore ways to become more present, accept and navigate emotions and develop meaningful relationships.
in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Expressive Arts Therapy from Lesley University.
Akshita Desore is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers Tele-therapy. She works with individuals across the lifespan with a focus on young adults. Most of her work involves working with clients facing life transitions, anxiety, grief/loss, and self-doubt. Akshita is particularly passionate about serving students, working professionals, and immigrants.Akshita’s approach is rooted in Expressive Arts Therapy, the use of arts to reconnect with our creativity and use our intuition and imagination. She works with clients to explore ways to become more present, accept and navigate emotions and develop meaningful relationships.
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Photo of Kelly Christian, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Christian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145  (Online Only)
My background focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-based Expressive Arts, Grief and Loss, Substance use Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Adjustment related disorders, Depression, and Mood disorders.
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
My background focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-based Expressive Arts, Grief and Loss, Substance use Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Adjustment related disorders, Depression, and Mood disorders.
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
(617) 546-4869 View (617) 546-4869
Photo of Jordan Kaufman, LMHC, Counselor
Jordan Kaufman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, expressive arts therapist, and certified yoga instructor based out of Cambridge, MA. I believe in collaboratively and consensually building working relationships with clients to make space for untangling, reclaiming, transforming, and navigating the instability of life. I aim to create inclusive spaces, especially for those with intersectional identities, and value culturally competent and trauma-informed practice. I work with children and adults to reclaim their innate resilience through an integrated approach of both feeling AND dealing.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, expressive arts therapist, and certified yoga instructor based out of Cambridge, MA. I believe in collaboratively and consensually building working relationships with clients to make space for untangling, reclaiming, transforming, and navigating the instability of life. I aim to create inclusive spaces, especially for those with intersectional identities, and value culturally competent and trauma-informed practice. I work with children and adults to reclaim their innate resilience through an integrated approach of both feeling AND dealing.
(617) 683-1115 View (617) 683-1115
Photo of Destini Kohnen, LMHC, Counselor
Destini Kohnen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
I offer expressive arts therapy and clinical mental health counseling.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
I offer expressive arts therapy and clinical mental health counseling.
The ideal client is motivated to continue to work with their inner child to become grounded in the present moment. They may have anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders, or they may not be sure what is underlying their experience, which I can help identify as well. The ideal clients are open to trying new methods of healing, including arts and spirituality. They are willing to trust me with their feelings and express them, whether that is verbally, through the expressive arts, or both.
(781) 429-3281 View (781) 429-3281
Photo of Kerlie Merizier, LMHC, Counselor
Kerlie Merizier
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
(617) 644-4607 View (617) 644-4607
Photo of Heather G Daley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather G Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting and guiding women through major life transitions using somatic movement therapy. I have a specific interest in how through supportive, compassionate connection; a person’s nervous system can be re-wired to feel safe and grounded through various forms of expressive arts. My intention is to create a gentle space for you to experience your own voice openly and honestly by assisting the development and expression of your unique strength and resilience within the therapeutic relationship and most importantly within your personal relationships.
I am passionate about supporting and guiding women through major life transitions using somatic movement therapy. I have a specific interest in how through supportive, compassionate connection; a person’s nervous system can be re-wired to feel safe and grounded through various forms of expressive arts. My intention is to create a gentle space for you to experience your own voice openly and honestly by assisting the development and expression of your unique strength and resilience within the therapeutic relationship and most importantly within your personal relationships.
(617) 652-0942 View (617) 652-0942
Photo of Katie Infantine, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Infantine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer strategies in mindfulness, relaxation, expressive arts, and guided imagery.
Are you seeking a deeper connection with the parts of yourself that call for healing? Are you motivated for change and to strengthen your capabilities? I aim to enhance your self-awareness to better understand and accept yourself, ultimately leading to a healthy and balanced life. I hold space for individuals to summon their resilience and uncover a lost connection to Self and others due to trauma or stress. Have you lost touch with your intuition? I will support and facilitate your ability to tune into your inner healing intelligence and by doing so, allow you to gain clarity, new perspectives and reconnection.
I offer strategies in mindfulness, relaxation, expressive arts, and guided imagery.
Are you seeking a deeper connection with the parts of yourself that call for healing? Are you motivated for change and to strengthen your capabilities? I aim to enhance your self-awareness to better understand and accept yourself, ultimately leading to a healthy and balanced life. I hold space for individuals to summon their resilience and uncover a lost connection to Self and others due to trauma or stress. Have you lost touch with your intuition? I will support and facilitate your ability to tune into your inner healing intelligence and by doing so, allow you to gain clarity, new perspectives and reconnection.
(617) 237-0498 View (617) 237-0498
Photo of Katharine Lagreze, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katharine Lagreze
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Katharine utilizes a trauma-informed, dialectical behavioral, and expressive arts-based approach to therapy.
Katharine Lagreze is a Counselor in Residence who specializes in anxiety, life transitions, identity, self-awareness, self-esteem, expressive therapy, and mindfulness. Her past experience has been in a hospital program partnered with adults managing OCD and comorbid disorders. Katharine also continued her effort at a non-profit arts-based day program serving adults with neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition, she has also supported children and adolescents in special education K-12. Katharine has completed a Master of Arts from Lesley University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy.
Katharine utilizes a trauma-informed, dialectical behavioral, and expressive arts-based approach to therapy.
Katharine Lagreze is a Counselor in Residence who specializes in anxiety, life transitions, identity, self-awareness, self-esteem, expressive therapy, and mindfulness. Her past experience has been in a hospital program partnered with adults managing OCD and comorbid disorders. Katharine also continued her effort at a non-profit arts-based day program serving adults with neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition, she has also supported children and adolescents in special education K-12. Katharine has completed a Master of Arts from Lesley University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy.
(617) 231-9637 View (617) 231-9637
Photo of Kimberly Knowles, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Kimberly Knowles
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
Are you feeling stressed, burnt out, and disconnected? I invite you to contact me to start the journey of healing and self expression. I offer a relaxed space to explore past and present obstacles, and a supportive hand to guide you in your therapy process.
Are you feeling stressed, burnt out, and disconnected? I invite you to contact me to start the journey of healing and self expression. I offer a relaxed space to explore past and present obstacles, and a supportive hand to guide you in your therapy process.
(339) 218-4470 View (339) 218-4470
Photo of Jenny Rieke, LMHC, Counselor
Jenny Rieke
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
If you are reading this, you are probably feeling stuck and wondering, where do I start? You may be feeling anxious and isolated after COVID and you want to get back on track. Congratulations on taking this step.
If you are reading this, you are probably feeling stuck and wondering, where do I start? You may be feeling anxious and isolated after COVID and you want to get back on track. Congratulations on taking this step.
(857) 997-9132 View (857) 997-9132
Photo of Helen Ni, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen Ni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Although the road to wellness is not linear, there is hope, and change is possible. Depression and anxiety, worry, stress, and feeling overwhelmed- these are all familiar concerns and normal in the human experience. We've all experienced it. Sometimes they can be difficult to manage and that's when talk therapy can be incredibly useful. But most important: I'm glad you're here. Let's build a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
Although the road to wellness is not linear, there is hope, and change is possible. Depression and anxiety, worry, stress, and feeling overwhelmed- these are all familiar concerns and normal in the human experience. We've all experienced it. Sometimes they can be difficult to manage and that's when talk therapy can be incredibly useful. But most important: I'm glad you're here. Let's build a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(617) 915-2389 View (617) 915-2389
Photo of Dr. Lauren Leone, DAT, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Dr. Lauren Leone
Counselor, DAT, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
In my work as a mental health counselor and art therapist, I help adults who experience anxiety and depression; chronic stress, burnout, and imposter syndrome; LGBTQIA+ issues; dis/ability and chronic illness and the impact of medical conditions on mental health; and intersecting issues related to cultural and social identity. I also support people in exploring how their health is impacted by economic, political, cultural, and historical conditions. I bring a collaborative approach, rooted in liberation and creativity, to guide you in healing and making changes.
In my work as a mental health counselor and art therapist, I help adults who experience anxiety and depression; chronic stress, burnout, and imposter syndrome; LGBTQIA+ issues; dis/ability and chronic illness and the impact of medical conditions on mental health; and intersecting issues related to cultural and social identity. I also support people in exploring how their health is impacted by economic, political, cultural, and historical conditions. I bring a collaborative approach, rooted in liberation and creativity, to guide you in healing and making changes.
(617) 675-5658 View (617) 675-5658
Photo of Jack Holland, Jack Holland, MEd, LCPC-C
Jack Holland
Jack Holland, MEd, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145  (Online Only)
I have 12+ years of clinical experience working with diverse populations across various treatment settings including community mental health centers, inpatient and outpatient programs, and residential care. Across all these contexts, I've helped clients navigate challenges like life changes, relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, career changes, creative growth, substance use, anger management, emotion regulation, identity, and more.
I have 12+ years of clinical experience working with diverse populations across various treatment settings including community mental health centers, inpatient and outpatient programs, and residential care. Across all these contexts, I've helped clients navigate challenges like life changes, relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, career changes, creative growth, substance use, anger management, emotion regulation, identity, and more.
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Photo of Whitney Brooks, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Whitney Brooks
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I work with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I work with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
(617) 863-9572 View (617) 863-9572
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(617) 958-6340 View (617) 958-6340
Photo of Rivkah Lapidus, PhD, LMHC, CGP, Counselor
Rivkah Lapidus
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
YOU are so much more than a diagnosis or category. The challenge we all share is how to make meaning as human beings in a chaotic world. I work with creative people, perfectionists, harsh self-critics and existential thinkers; with singles, couples & especially groups. I have expertise in helping people recognize problematic substance use, with Harm Reduction as a philosophical approach. . I enjoy working with young and early-career adults. I look forward to beginning a group for seniors, to discuss this meaningful chapter of life, and all its challenges. I enjoy learning from the people I see.
YOU are so much more than a diagnosis or category. The challenge we all share is how to make meaning as human beings in a chaotic world. I work with creative people, perfectionists, harsh self-critics and existential thinkers; with singles, couples & especially groups. I have expertise in helping people recognize problematic substance use, with Harm Reduction as a philosophical approach. . I enjoy working with young and early-career adults. I look forward to beginning a group for seniors, to discuss this meaningful chapter of life, and all its challenges. I enjoy learning from the people I see.
(617) 612-5619 View (617) 612-5619
Photo of Amna Mustafic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amna Mustafic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
My ideal client is someone who is ready for therapy and is committed to their own growth and well-being. This person is open to expressing themselves in therapy. This person may be experiencing challenges such as anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. The goals for therapy may be developing coping skills, healing past trauma, and increasing confidence. Needs may include empathy and validation and a need for a safe environment. I am also interested in working with people with a dual diagnosis. I can help people create treatment goals, combine different therapies, and provide community resources to support recovery.
My ideal client is someone who is ready for therapy and is committed to their own growth and well-being. This person is open to expressing themselves in therapy. This person may be experiencing challenges such as anxiety and depression, low self-esteem, and trauma. The goals for therapy may be developing coping skills, healing past trauma, and increasing confidence. Needs may include empathy and validation and a need for a safe environment. I am also interested in working with people with a dual diagnosis. I can help people create treatment goals, combine different therapies, and provide community resources to support recovery.
(617) 609-0181 View (617) 609-0181
Photo of Wildred Rachel Krenis, LMHC, Counselor
Wildred Rachel Krenis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
My ideal client may be struggling with depression or trauma in addition to the main issues listed. I've specialized in working with gastric bypass transitions, law enforcement professionals, people needing pet support services, those benefitting from art therapy, and interior design aesthetic supports, and reiki energy supports.
My ideal client may be struggling with depression or trauma in addition to the main issues listed. I've specialized in working with gastric bypass transitions, law enforcement professionals, people needing pet support services, those benefitting from art therapy, and interior design aesthetic supports, and reiki energy supports.
(617) 765-9257 View (617) 765-9257
Photo of Erica DuFresne, LMHC, Counselor
Erica DuFresne
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
My ideal client has either experienced a past trauma and/or is dealing with anxiety or depression. This client can be someone diagnosed with ASD, as I enjoy working with neurodiverse populations. This client should want guidance and support to develop emotional regulation skills, build positive relationships with others, or process their emotional experiences. I can help support those going through various life transitions, as well as help people develop self-awareness and understanding.
My ideal client has either experienced a past trauma and/or is dealing with anxiety or depression. This client can be someone diagnosed with ASD, as I enjoy working with neurodiverse populations. This client should want guidance and support to develop emotional regulation skills, build positive relationships with others, or process their emotional experiences. I can help support those going through various life transitions, as well as help people develop self-awareness and understanding.
(617) 544-2322 View (617) 544-2322
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Expressive Arts Therapists

What happens in expressive arts therapy?

In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.

How long does expressive arts therapy take?

An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.

How does expressive arts therapy help children?

Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.

What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?

Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.