Expressive Arts Therapists in Ellicott City, MD
![Photo of Olivia Medoff, MS, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bac6f9fc-ba04-4d2e-aee1-ff5f3d4ecd9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia Medoff
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
I use integrative and evidence-based interventions in my approach to therapy; such as, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Now Accepting New Clients Being human is dynamic and complex, and we all need a safe space to explore, reflect, and return to ourselves. I know that honoring our own wants and needs can be challenging and vulnerable at times, and I strive to establish an open, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment, to meet you wherever you are at in your life. I truly believe in the power of self-expression, and am willing to get as creative as possible, within the realms of evidence-based practice, in order to help you achieve your goals.
I use integrative and evidence-based interventions in my approach to therapy; such as, Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Techniques.
Now Accepting New Clients Being human is dynamic and complex, and we all need a safe space to explore, reflect, and return to ourselves. I know that honoring our own wants and needs can be challenging and vulnerable at times, and I strive to establish an open, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment, to meet you wherever you are at in your life. I truly believe in the power of self-expression, and am willing to get as creative as possible, within the realms of evidence-based practice, in order to help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Rebecca Guy, LCPC, NCC, RPT™](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd6d6a33-ab37-48e5-a5d1-65a0b5ff6c01/1/320x400.png)
Rebecca Guy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, RPT™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Utilizing play, expressive arts, and strength-based approaches, I create a safe space for children and their families to process trauma, express emotions, and develop effective tools to manage life’s stressors.
Sometimes the dream of raising children is not what you expected. No matter what you do, it seems nothing works. You worry if your child will be okay and if things will ever get better. You are not alone. It is heartbreaking to see your child struggle socially, academically, emotionally, and behaviorally. Many factors impact behavior. Trauma, sensory overload, and grief, are just a few examples. When children don't know how to communicate their experiences, feelings, and needs, they often communicate through behaviors such as tantrums, acting aggressively, or shutting down.
Utilizing play, expressive arts, and strength-based approaches, I create a safe space for children and their families to process trauma, express emotions, and develop effective tools to manage life’s stressors.
Sometimes the dream of raising children is not what you expected. No matter what you do, it seems nothing works. You worry if your child will be okay and if things will ever get better. You are not alone. It is heartbreaking to see your child struggle socially, academically, emotionally, and behaviorally. Many factors impact behavior. Trauma, sensory overload, and grief, are just a few examples. When children don't know how to communicate their experiences, feelings, and needs, they often communicate through behaviors such as tantrums, acting aggressively, or shutting down.
![Photo of Valerie R McManus, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/685f105e-3f1d-48d7-bc0c-931b8e87d4e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie R McManus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Energy therapies, channeling work, and expressive arts techniques are powerful modalities through which I support clients in creating the authentic lives they most want.
Now Accepting New Clients (2023): The stressors of modern living create noisy interference in the “telephone line” to our highest self (often called the soul, spirit, unified field, universal consciousness, etc.). Through my intuitive psychotherapy practice, I cast my mystical gifts through the lens of my expertise as a licensed clinical social worker. Marrying the two allows for optimum balance between divine clarity and therapeutic processing and integration work. Clients benefit on a soul level while remaining anchored in practical application tools for everyday living.
Energy therapies, channeling work, and expressive arts techniques are powerful modalities through which I support clients in creating the authentic lives they most want.
Now Accepting New Clients (2023): The stressors of modern living create noisy interference in the “telephone line” to our highest self (often called the soul, spirit, unified field, universal consciousness, etc.). Through my intuitive psychotherapy practice, I cast my mystical gifts through the lens of my expertise as a licensed clinical social worker. Marrying the two allows for optimum balance between divine clarity and therapeutic processing and integration work. Clients benefit on a soul level while remaining anchored in practical application tools for everyday living.
![Photo of Shannon Sammis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a35e889-dca4-46e1-8a22-4ef7c7b90652/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Sammis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.
I prefer to take a child-centered approach and utilize developmentally appropriate techniques including play therapy, expressive arts, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My philosophy when working with children and teens is that they need to feel heard, valued, and supported. I believe that they need to understand that their thoughts and feelings matter. I have spent 15+ years working with children, teens, and their caregivers in schools, the community, and in their homes. I am a certified school social worker and have significant experience working with behaviors, navigating the IEP process, and providing parenting support. I have a special interest in working with children and teens who are neurodivergent or have a developmental disability.
![Photo of Kristina R Smith, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/749a80a4-3c7b-461c-aa5e-13cfd273ca79/1/320x400.jpeg)
We will use our relationship as well as mind-body techniques, expressive arts, role play, dream exploration, or Sandplay to increase your self-awareness, make patterns and habits more conscious, develop your coping skills, and improve your communication and attachment with others.
I love to work with people that want to be seen, understood, and feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. People whom have depth and want to live meaningful connected lives. People come to therapy when something is not working and to explore challenges that keep them from being engaged in important areas of life. This may show up as anxiety, depression, anger, or a life lacking fulfillment. Facing yourself is a difficult and brave act; imperative to grow, cope with change, improve relationships, connect with others, understand yourself better, and feel more ALIVE!
We will use our relationship as well as mind-body techniques, expressive arts, role play, dream exploration, or Sandplay to increase your self-awareness, make patterns and habits more conscious, develop your coping skills, and improve your communication and attachment with others.
I love to work with people that want to be seen, understood, and feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. People whom have depth and want to live meaningful connected lives. People come to therapy when something is not working and to explore challenges that keep them from being engaged in important areas of life. This may show up as anxiety, depression, anger, or a life lacking fulfillment. Facing yourself is a difficult and brave act; imperative to grow, cope with change, improve relationships, connect with others, understand yourself better, and feel more ALIVE!
![Photo of Tanory Ateek, LMSW, MA, RYT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5b21a6a-ec21-49e5-8c8a-850770e24350/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tanory Ateek
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21029 (Online Only)
With a background in dance & twenty years as a yoga/meditation instructor, I incorporate expressive arts, body-based, and mindfulness methods where appropriate.
I'm Tanory (she/they) & I am an EMDR and Somatic Experiencing trained therapist. I love working collaboratively with people who want to feel more whole, purposeful & alive in their lives. I work in creative, relational & evidence-based ways to help you transform a variety of issues. I specialize in working with any mental health issue that may be tied to trauma or complex trauma. The therapy techniques used do not require the retelling/re-experiencing of trauma to heal. Your natural inner strength will become more available to support you through whatever life brings, as we work gently and curiously with your unique nervous system.
With a background in dance & twenty years as a yoga/meditation instructor, I incorporate expressive arts, body-based, and mindfulness methods where appropriate.
I'm Tanory (she/they) & I am an EMDR and Somatic Experiencing trained therapist. I love working collaboratively with people who want to feel more whole, purposeful & alive in their lives. I work in creative, relational & evidence-based ways to help you transform a variety of issues. I specialize in working with any mental health issue that may be tied to trauma or complex trauma. The therapy techniques used do not require the retelling/re-experiencing of trauma to heal. Your natural inner strength will become more available to support you through whatever life brings, as we work gently and curiously with your unique nervous system.
![Photo of Jodi Cobb, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459a37b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi Cobb
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
With over 35 years of experience, I bring compassion, humor, and creativity to my work with individuals and families. My professional interests include psychotherapy with parent-child dyads, parent support from an attachment-focused lens, and individual work with adults and teens. I have experience and interest in working with families impacted by attachment issues, adoption, foster care, trauma, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
With over 35 years of experience, I bring compassion, humor, and creativity to my work with individuals and families. My professional interests include psychotherapy with parent-child dyads, parent support from an attachment-focused lens, and individual work with adults and teens. I have experience and interest in working with families impacted by attachment issues, adoption, foster care, trauma, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Madison Harlow, LGPAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76f085d5-83d1-4ee2-a088-c20de18f874c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I’m an art therapist committed to helping children, teens, and young adults learn how to manage emotional dysregulation manifesting as anxiety, anger, and stress. My work focuses on building coping skills to promote self expression and emotional regulation.
Hi there! I’m an art therapist committed to helping children, teens, and young adults learn how to manage emotional dysregulation manifesting as anxiety, anger, and stress. My work focuses on building coping skills to promote self expression and emotional regulation.
![Photo of Rita J Platt, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538aedd6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life events or relational challenges? Do you feel stuck, anxious or invisible? I am here to walk with you on your journey to hope and reconnection to self and others. I am an experienced psychotherapist offering compassionate integrative care, valuing each client as whole person: body, mind, heart and spirit. I find great joy in empowering my clients to move forward in strength and wholeness. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. I'm here to provide support, understanding and validation as we work together to achieve your goals.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life events or relational challenges? Do you feel stuck, anxious or invisible? I am here to walk with you on your journey to hope and reconnection to self and others. I am an experienced psychotherapist offering compassionate integrative care, valuing each client as whole person: body, mind, heart and spirit. I find great joy in empowering my clients to move forward in strength and wholeness. I work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. I'm here to provide support, understanding and validation as we work together to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Sophie Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd6ab6ce-d0cc-42c0-b25e-fd4229b575ec/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Abhik Saha, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1f52438-6a81-4c8a-8e9e-d4b5c36e4731/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a young adult struggling to envision your future? Are you feeling anxious or stuck? Have you been hurt or traumatized? Feel like your full potential is unreachable? Or frustrated with life? Be still. Breathe. Seek deep within, for YOU are the Guru. And you have the power to change things! Are you ready to transform your life, by feeling fulfilled in your passions and relationships? Are you ready to explore and journey into your own unique expression of self? Are you ready to tap into your true potential and gifts? Become a new radiant you with my support and guidance! All of you is welcome.
Are you a young adult struggling to envision your future? Are you feeling anxious or stuck? Have you been hurt or traumatized? Feel like your full potential is unreachable? Or frustrated with life? Be still. Breathe. Seek deep within, for YOU are the Guru. And you have the power to change things! Are you ready to transform your life, by feeling fulfilled in your passions and relationships? Are you ready to explore and journey into your own unique expression of self? Are you ready to tap into your true potential and gifts? Become a new radiant you with my support and guidance! All of you is welcome.
![Photo of Lina Faryal Kotsoeva, LCPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9b778f5-0e5e-4693-8c0a-8a333d04ec0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lina Faryal Kotsoeva
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
It all begins with the desire for change…but as you might realize, change is difficult. And if you’re struggling with things like the desire to stop a negative thought or want to stop using drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. I am here to support you in the changes you want to make in your life, each step of the way.
It all begins with the desire for change…but as you might realize, change is difficult. And if you’re struggling with things like the desire to stop a negative thought or want to stop using drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. I am here to support you in the changes you want to make in your life, each step of the way.
![Photo of Wei Reidy, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adc2f15d-aa2f-4210-b451-e2313da900d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wei Reidy
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Waitlist for new clients
I am a multiracial, multi-ethnic (Chinese, Irish, Taiwanese) queer therapist. I practice from a justice-centered, liberation focused, and nature-informed therapy orientation. I particularly enjoy exploring issues related to climate awareness, disability, chronic illness, gender identity, grief, neurodivergence, racialized trauma, and sexuality. I am currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
I am a multiracial, multi-ethnic (Chinese, Irish, Taiwanese) queer therapist. I practice from a justice-centered, liberation focused, and nature-informed therapy orientation. I particularly enjoy exploring issues related to climate awareness, disability, chronic illness, gender identity, grief, neurodivergence, racialized trauma, and sexuality. I am currently enrolled in EMDR Basic Training with Deany Laliotis of the Center for Excellence in EMDR Therapy.
![Photo of Joselyn Brown, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b7c96b8-8db7-4489-82b8-d5e49927dbaa/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Sonia Kersevich, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a24d1de3-75ce-4374-a73f-3d753abded9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonia Kersevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
Many feel alone and overwhelmed when they are struggling with life challenges or mental health symptoms. Some people try to stuff the “bad feelings” deep down and pretend they are okay, while others shut out family and friends so they don’t hurt them or feel judged by them. It can be hard to have hope when you feel trapped in such a dark place without a light to see the way out.
Many feel alone and overwhelmed when they are struggling with life challenges or mental health symptoms. Some people try to stuff the “bad feelings” deep down and pretend they are okay, while others shut out family and friends so they don’t hurt them or feel judged by them. It can be hard to have hope when you feel trapped in such a dark place without a light to see the way out.
![Photo of Teresa Vaughan, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f4e0a3-43ed-44f8-a78c-fc81c88bd782/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
![Photo of Jane Bisco, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b41e077-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Bisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
In working with families and individuals, I use both traditional psychotherapies such as positive psychology, psychodynamic techniques, and cognitive and behavioral therapies. In addition, I am trained in mind/body techniques such as EMDR and hypnosis. I also believe in the healing connections we make with nature and will often use pet therapy in assisting my clients to reach their goals.
In working with families and individuals, I use both traditional psychotherapies such as positive psychology, psychodynamic techniques, and cognitive and behavioral therapies. In addition, I am trained in mind/body techniques such as EMDR and hypnosis. I also believe in the healing connections we make with nature and will often use pet therapy in assisting my clients to reach their goals.
![Photo of Robin Ann Brown, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5362a776-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Ann Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Waitlist for new clients
Robin Brown, LCSW-C, received her BS in psychology from Towson University and her Master's in Social Work from University of MD, Baltimore in 1995. Robin specializes in using a mindfulness framework to assist clients in finding their strength to flourish while dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, domestic abuse or neurodevelopmental related issues. Drawing from various modalities ranging from cognitive behavioral, to guided imagery and art therapy, Robin works with children and adults to help them find their path to healing in a safe space.
Robin Brown, LCSW-C, received her BS in psychology from Towson University and her Master's in Social Work from University of MD, Baltimore in 1995. Robin specializes in using a mindfulness framework to assist clients in finding their strength to flourish while dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, domestic abuse or neurodevelopmental related issues. Drawing from various modalities ranging from cognitive behavioral, to guided imagery and art therapy, Robin works with children and adults to help them find their path to healing in a safe space.
![Photo of Julie M Kotler, LCPC, ATR-BC, LCPAT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4792cb86-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a person struggling with parenting, transitions, confidence, low self-esteem and overwhelm? Are you dreading another day of shuffling kids, prepping meals and not having any time for yourself? Is being a parent leaving you feeling lonely, empty, and lost? Life can be challenging. We have to balance family, sense of self, work and finding purpose. It is really easy to lose your center. Many people feel stuck. Together we can explore ways to feel better in your own skin. I can offer strategies to help you rediscover joy and connection to the person you used to be.
Are you a person struggling with parenting, transitions, confidence, low self-esteem and overwhelm? Are you dreading another day of shuffling kids, prepping meals and not having any time for yourself? Is being a parent leaving you feeling lonely, empty, and lost? Life can be challenging. We have to balance family, sense of self, work and finding purpose. It is really easy to lose your center. Many people feel stuck. Together we can explore ways to feel better in your own skin. I can offer strategies to help you rediscover joy and connection to the person you used to be.
![Photo of Dr. Joanne Vizzini, PhD, LCPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b874802-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joanne Vizzini
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
I have a dynamic private practice in MD and VA. Virtual ONLY. The most important component of therapy is listening deeply to my clients. I specialize in ANXIETY issues, including GAD, OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder and social anxiety. Other specialties include healing past hurts, such as codependency and addictions for adults; helping families who are separating/divorcing; and, children/adults who struggle with ADD/ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Ages 5 -105 are welcome. I feel privileged to offer support and healing.I'm an out-of-network provider for most insurance companies and can offer some individuals a lowered rate.
I have a dynamic private practice in MD and VA. Virtual ONLY. The most important component of therapy is listening deeply to my clients. I specialize in ANXIETY issues, including GAD, OCD, specific phobias, panic disorder and social anxiety. Other specialties include healing past hurts, such as codependency and addictions for adults; helping families who are separating/divorcing; and, children/adults who struggle with ADD/ADHD and/or learning disabilities. Ages 5 -105 are welcome. I feel privileged to offer support and healing.I'm an out-of-network provider for most insurance companies and can offer some individuals a lowered rate.
See more therapy options for Ellicott City
Nearby Expressive Arts Therapists Searches for Ellicott City
- Baltimore
- Burtonsville
- Catonsville
- Columbia
- Eldersburg
- Laurel
- Olney
- Owings Mills
- Pikesville
- Roland Park
- Severn
- Sykesville
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.