Expressive Arts Therapists in Traverse City, MI
![Photo of Ann DelMariani, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/780613ff-3bae-4cf7-86ed-2065b59d06c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! Are you ready to unburden from ingrained patterns, heal trauma wounds, and welcome joy, connectedness, and wonderment into your life? I can help. I'm an attachment-focused and trauma-informed psychotherapist with a curious mind, open heart, and hearty sense of humor. I believe that therapy should feel nourishing and meaningful - and the effects should be transformative. As a Narrative, Mindfulness, Sandtray, and IFS trained therapist, I helps clients “re-author” their lives — often using experiential and expressive arts activities or guided ‘parts’ exercises in order to make space for new ways of thinking and understanding.
Welcome! Are you ready to unburden from ingrained patterns, heal trauma wounds, and welcome joy, connectedness, and wonderment into your life? I can help. I'm an attachment-focused and trauma-informed psychotherapist with a curious mind, open heart, and hearty sense of humor. I believe that therapy should feel nourishing and meaningful - and the effects should be transformative. As a Narrative, Mindfulness, Sandtray, and IFS trained therapist, I helps clients “re-author” their lives — often using experiential and expressive arts activities or guided ‘parts’ exercises in order to make space for new ways of thinking and understanding.
![Photo of Emily Friske, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64c5bd5d-4210-4891-b82a-247789008d39/2/320x400.jpeg)
I support clients facing a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My specialization lies in working with young adults, and middle-aged adults, as well as individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, pregnancy, and parenting challenges. I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of therapeutic relationships. No one should have to face their challenges alone. My approach is centered on empathy, respect, and collaboration, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can freely explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I support clients facing a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My specialization lies in working with young adults, and middle-aged adults, as well as individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, pregnancy, and parenting challenges. I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of therapeutic relationships. No one should have to face their challenges alone. My approach is centered on empathy, respect, and collaboration, creating a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can freely explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
![Photo of Ashley Rich, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cc511dd-3362-4961-8402-d8f29aadfc96/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Are you being bullied and feel the urge to harm yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety and dissociative issues? Are you a member of the LGBTQIA2-S+ community and feel misunderstood? I can help you improve relationships, overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and gain the self-confidence you need to thrive. My specialties are teens, young adults and LGBTQIA2-S+ individuals struggling with trauma, sexuality or gender identity, as well as those who struggle with dissociation and neurodivergent disorders. I make therapy a safe, comfortable, and productive place to be. No judgment. Just clear communication and understanding.
Are you being bullied and feel the urge to harm yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety and dissociative issues? Are you a member of the LGBTQIA2-S+ community and feel misunderstood? I can help you improve relationships, overcome challenges, cultivate personal growth, and gain the self-confidence you need to thrive. My specialties are teens, young adults and LGBTQIA2-S+ individuals struggling with trauma, sexuality or gender identity, as well as those who struggle with dissociation and neurodivergent disorders. I make therapy a safe, comfortable, and productive place to be. No judgment. Just clear communication and understanding.
![Photo of Tara Carroll, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6fe62c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My intention is to work with you & help you discover your truths, strengths, & the answers you have within you.
Through your willingness to change, it is my hope you can grow, self discover, & release negative patterns that don't serve you. In the context of a safe, supportive, therapeutic relationship you have the opportunity to creatively build and identify coping skills, examine strengths and weaknesses, and enhance your ability to problem solve.
We can use art/talk therapy,or a combination of both. I also integrate music, writing, or mindfulness techniques into sessions when appropriate to further self exploration.
My intention is to work with you & help you discover your truths, strengths, & the answers you have within you.
Through your willingness to change, it is my hope you can grow, self discover, & release negative patterns that don't serve you. In the context of a safe, supportive, therapeutic relationship you have the opportunity to creatively build and identify coping skills, examine strengths and weaknesses, and enhance your ability to problem solve.
We can use art/talk therapy,or a combination of both. I also integrate music, writing, or mindfulness techniques into sessions when appropriate to further self exploration.
![Photo of Linda Smith, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5d9772-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I enjoy counseling children, adolescents & adults in addressing their cognitive, behavioral & emotional challenges. I support my clients through individualized therapeutic approaches to help them understand & express their emotions in developmentally appropriate & healthy ways. I provide therapy for children, adolescents & their families experiencing challenges such as divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, bullying, self-esteem, medical procedures, domestic violence, abuse & neglect, grief & loss, self-harm, trauma and PTSD. I also offer counseling for military families and understand the unique stress they face. I utilize a strengths-based approach to counsel children, teens & adults to help them gain confidence in their abilities to face challenges head on.
I enjoy counseling children, adolescents & adults in addressing their cognitive, behavioral & emotional challenges. I support my clients through individualized therapeutic approaches to help them understand & express their emotions in developmentally appropriate & healthy ways. I provide therapy for children, adolescents & their families experiencing challenges such as divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, bullying, self-esteem, medical procedures, domestic violence, abuse & neglect, grief & loss, self-harm, trauma and PTSD. I also offer counseling for military families and understand the unique stress they face. I utilize a strengths-based approach to counsel children, teens & adults to help them gain confidence in their abilities to face challenges head on.
![Photo of Danielle Portillo, BSW, LMSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5196f833-0ab3-432b-a970-fa82f5844fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Portillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LMSW, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
My work as a therapist is grounded in the core values of human relationships, dignity and worth of the person, human and cultural diversity, social justice and advocacy, and community mental health. I offer goal oriented and person-centered therapy individualized to client's expressive nature. I work with clients who would like to challenge their growth and get to know themselves in order become a better version of who they are. I believe that each of us has a life path and holds the capacity to authentically contribute to our world in a unique & positive manner.
My work as a therapist is grounded in the core values of human relationships, dignity and worth of the person, human and cultural diversity, social justice and advocacy, and community mental health. I offer goal oriented and person-centered therapy individualized to client's expressive nature. I work with clients who would like to challenge their growth and get to know themselves in order become a better version of who they are. I believe that each of us has a life path and holds the capacity to authentically contribute to our world in a unique & positive manner.
![Photo of Kim Manrique, LPC, HBCE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07b85d69-81bd-4834-b8f1-247179d4fab5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Manrique
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, HBCE
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Hi and Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. If you are looking to make a change to your life I can help with that. Whether young, old or in between, we all have the power within us to change our story and welcome healing and wellness into our lives. As Rumi once said, "The dark thought, the shame, the mailce. Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in. Be grateful for whatever comes. Because each has been sent as a guide." I can help assist in this journey, to be a guide for you or your family member in learning the tools to help assist in creating a more peaceful and meaningful life.
Hi and Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. If you are looking to make a change to your life I can help with that. Whether young, old or in between, we all have the power within us to change our story and welcome healing and wellness into our lives. As Rumi once said, "The dark thought, the shame, the mailce. Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in. Be grateful for whatever comes. Because each has been sent as a guide." I can help assist in this journey, to be a guide for you or your family member in learning the tools to help assist in creating a more peaceful and meaningful life.
![Photo of Kari L de Boer, LPC, ATR, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9561e870-888b-4f39-8c00-a83e8d8a8bf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari L de Boer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
Kari is now accepting children ages 6+ for in-person therapy and 15+ for telehealth or in-person. Kari believes that people are innately driven to achieve wholeness. Encouraging clients to actively listen to their minds and bodies, Kari creates a warm atmosphere of safety. She supports clients as they do the transformative work of identifying their growth areas and empowering their curiosities.
Kari is now accepting children ages 6+ for in-person therapy and 15+ for telehealth or in-person. Kari believes that people are innately driven to achieve wholeness. Encouraging clients to actively listen to their minds and bodies, Kari creates a warm atmosphere of safety. She supports clients as they do the transformative work of identifying their growth areas and empowering their curiosities.
![Photo of Renee Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f5a1fe6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Times are challenging. If you're feeling dissatisfied, depressed, unfulfilled, nervous, or disconnected from others, I can offer guidance and support. The therapy I provide is grounded in compassion, non-judgment, and curiosity. Utilizing an integrative approach, we'll find a path that works for you. Some of the issues my clients navigate: grief and loss; depression and anxiety; relationships (friends, family, romantic partners); life transitions (parenting, gender, career, marriage/divorce, menopause/mid-life); finding purpose/meaning; creating healthy boundaries; perfectionism; healing trauma (historical, childhood, etc.).
Times are challenging. If you're feeling dissatisfied, depressed, unfulfilled, nervous, or disconnected from others, I can offer guidance and support. The therapy I provide is grounded in compassion, non-judgment, and curiosity. Utilizing an integrative approach, we'll find a path that works for you. Some of the issues my clients navigate: grief and loss; depression and anxiety; relationships (friends, family, romantic partners); life transitions (parenting, gender, career, marriage/divorce, menopause/mid-life); finding purpose/meaning; creating healthy boundaries; perfectionism; healing trauma (historical, childhood, etc.).
![Photo of Carrie Quisenberry - Gentle Healing Counseling Carrie Quisenberry , MA, LPC, SCL, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfc168b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gentle Healing Counseling Carrie Quisenberry
Counselor, MA, LPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with increased emotional or physical difficulties due to the impact of isolation, covid 19, life transitions? Are you feeling increased Depression and Anxiety? Are you struggling with relationship issues? Has someone you love died or is in the process of dying? Are you struggling with other issues of grief or loss? Do you have medical issues that are impacting your emotional well being? Maybe you are needing help managing responses to past or current trauma? I am here for you. I will listen, support and encourage you. We will explore the difficult issues and create your unique healing plan together.
Are you struggling with increased emotional or physical difficulties due to the impact of isolation, covid 19, life transitions? Are you feeling increased Depression and Anxiety? Are you struggling with relationship issues? Has someone you love died or is in the process of dying? Are you struggling with other issues of grief or loss? Do you have medical issues that are impacting your emotional well being? Maybe you are needing help managing responses to past or current trauma? I am here for you. I will listen, support and encourage you. We will explore the difficult issues and create your unique healing plan together.
![Photo of Jermaine D Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45100c66-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jermaine D Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I partner with individuals and families in the therapeutic process. As a collaborative therapist I believe that judgments are for courtrooms, and that no one has to do it all alone. My therapeutic approach is relationship based and person-centered. This relationship is a partnership with the purpose of engaging in conversations to reach a deeper understanding and encourage growth and change. Maybe you have a difficult child or you're grieving a loss. Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, addictive tendencies, resurfacing childhood trauma, etc., there can be relief.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I partner with individuals and families in the therapeutic process. As a collaborative therapist I believe that judgments are for courtrooms, and that no one has to do it all alone. My therapeutic approach is relationship based and person-centered. This relationship is a partnership with the purpose of engaging in conversations to reach a deeper understanding and encourage growth and change. Maybe you have a difficult child or you're grieving a loss. Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, addictive tendencies, resurfacing childhood trauma, etc., there can be relief.
![Photo of Ann Stromgren, MA, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21147fa1-2845-4319-9623-a77696e4df0b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you want to break old cycles that aren’t working, gain insight into your relationships and behaviors, or build a more positive relationship with yourself, I’m your enthusiastic co-voyager. Through talk therapy and the arts, I support clients in telling their story while harnessing their innate strengths and creativity.
Whether you want to break old cycles that aren’t working, gain insight into your relationships and behaviors, or build a more positive relationship with yourself, I’m your enthusiastic co-voyager. Through talk therapy and the arts, I support clients in telling their story while harnessing their innate strengths and creativity.
![Photo of D.j. Clark, LLMSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e4a0d42-f975-42b9-b31e-0207b801b3c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
D.j. Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
When you’re around others, you wear a mask and pretend everything is okay. Beneath the surface, you feel a churning of discomfort, disconnect, and detachment from the people and the world around you. Sometimes, you feel so internally overwhelmed that you go numb. When you’re alone, the psychic pain sets in and your whole being surges with anxiety. You feel lost and like you’re drowning. The persistent feelings of loneliness and isolation are soul crushing. Life has lost its spark, and you are alone in the dark. You can’t calm down because being calm means you’re too vulnerable. You can’t imagine a different future.
When you’re around others, you wear a mask and pretend everything is okay. Beneath the surface, you feel a churning of discomfort, disconnect, and detachment from the people and the world around you. Sometimes, you feel so internally overwhelmed that you go numb. When you’re alone, the psychic pain sets in and your whole being surges with anxiety. You feel lost and like you’re drowning. The persistent feelings of loneliness and isolation are soul crushing. Life has lost its spark, and you are alone in the dark. You can’t calm down because being calm means you’re too vulnerable. You can’t imagine a different future.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Sarah Cumberland, MA, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f98d1fd-71fa-4f64-b78c-5d8228c29e28/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience using expressive arts, Gestalt, CBT, and other approaches.
Knowing when to ask for help is hard. My ideal client is someone willing to take that step. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma - there is hope. Together, we can start walking towards a healthier you.
I have experience using expressive arts, Gestalt, CBT, and other approaches.
Knowing when to ask for help is hard. My ideal client is someone willing to take that step. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma - there is hope. Together, we can start walking towards a healthier you.
![Photo of Adrienne Shiels, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe836ef0-afcc-44c1-8cdd-ab70fa0a9f59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Shiels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petoskey, MI 49770
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard and sometimes you find yourself struggling with something that you just don’t know how to overcome on your own. That’s where counseling comes in. At Still Space Counseling, I start from the belief that you are whole; that you have everything you need within you right now to heal and thrive in this life. You are not your struggle. Underneath the anxiety, depression, pain, loneliness, anger, insecurity, obsession, addiction...there is an authentic Self, and that is who I will see and help to uncover. I believe that as you find safety and trust within yourself, you will have the power to overcome any challenge.
Life can be hard and sometimes you find yourself struggling with something that you just don’t know how to overcome on your own. That’s where counseling comes in. At Still Space Counseling, I start from the belief that you are whole; that you have everything you need within you right now to heal and thrive in this life. You are not your struggle. Underneath the anxiety, depression, pain, loneliness, anger, insecurity, obsession, addiction...there is an authentic Self, and that is who I will see and help to uncover. I believe that as you find safety and trust within yourself, you will have the power to overcome any challenge.
![Photo of Jill Valliere, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/073a96e5-d731-4726-af80-a8929c098bff/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Pyramid of Hope Counseling, LLC my goal is provide the best mental health services for individuals, couples and families in Northern Michigan. I have been blessed with working with clinicians with similar values and passion that have expertise in working with Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults, Parents & Couples that experience difficulties with; Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Behavioral, Adjustment & Phase of Life Transitions & Career-Related Issues.
At Pyramid of Hope Counseling, LLC my goal is provide the best mental health services for individuals, couples and families in Northern Michigan. I have been blessed with working with clinicians with similar values and passion that have expertise in working with Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults, Parents & Couples that experience difficulties with; Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Trauma, Relationships, Addictions, Behavioral, Adjustment & Phase of Life Transitions & Career-Related Issues.
![Photo of Amber Howard, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16f38d57-a731-480e-8adf-d6cac0569218/3/320x400.jpeg)
We are all unique individuals, with unique problems and unique ways of handling difficulties. Sometimes in life, we all find ourselves stuck. Stuck in a pattern of behavior, stuck in negative thinking, stuck at work or stuck in an unhealthy relationship. Together, we can work through these situations to discover more about yourself and what it is you truly want. I am here to listen without judgment or opinion to help you uncover what is truly best for you in your unique situation. Sometimes just taking the first step will uncover things you never thought possible.
We are all unique individuals, with unique problems and unique ways of handling difficulties. Sometimes in life, we all find ourselves stuck. Stuck in a pattern of behavior, stuck in negative thinking, stuck at work or stuck in an unhealthy relationship. Together, we can work through these situations to discover more about yourself and what it is you truly want. I am here to listen without judgment or opinion to help you uncover what is truly best for you in your unique situation. Sometimes just taking the first step will uncover things you never thought possible.
![Photo of Mary Rottier, LPC, RPTS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686fc1a9-4b1e-4728-a6f6-2a9b620f037e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed counselor and registered play therapist supervisor with 19 years of clinical experience in a variety of different settings. I work with all ages, but specialize in the counseling needs of infants, preschoolers, and adolescents. My specialty areas include diagnosing and treating ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, attachment, and trauma. As a counselor, I strive to create a safe environment conducive to producing change and growth.
I am a licensed counselor and registered play therapist supervisor with 19 years of clinical experience in a variety of different settings. I work with all ages, but specialize in the counseling needs of infants, preschoolers, and adolescents. My specialty areas include diagnosing and treating ADHD, anxiety, eating disorders, attachment, and trauma. As a counselor, I strive to create a safe environment conducive to producing change and growth.
![Photo of Allison Gross, LLMSW, QMHP, QIDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/728c7778-256f-49db-bf43-d386dd9648c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, QMHP, QIDP
Verified Verified
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Life is full of challenges. Any child can benefit from extra support to navigate these. Many children struggle to cope with their mental health. Serving clients under the age of 18, my goal is to help fulfill the goals that you and your child have. I believe that seeking therapy at a young age is the first step in having a positive and fulfilling future. Whether it be the stressors of every day life, behavior concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health related needs, I am here to help you and your child navigate through this.
Life is full of challenges. Any child can benefit from extra support to navigate these. Many children struggle to cope with their mental health. Serving clients under the age of 18, my goal is to help fulfill the goals that you and your child have. I believe that seeking therapy at a young age is the first step in having a positive and fulfilling future. Whether it be the stressors of every day life, behavior concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health related needs, I am here to help you and your child navigate through this.
![Photo of Michele Creech, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/857cbab7-56e5-41de-b2e5-724d566912e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Creech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheboygan, MI 49721 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Maya Angelou once said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Finding a therapist you feel safe telling your story to can be scary; not telling your story can be agony.
Maya Angelou once said, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." Finding a therapist you feel safe telling your story to can be scary; not telling your story can be agony.
See more therapy options for Traverse City
Nearby Searches for Traverse City
- Acme
- Benzonia
- Beulah
- Elk Rapids
- Frankfort
- Glen Arbor
- Interlochen
- Kalkaska
- Kingsley
- Lake Leelanau
- Suttons Bay
- Williamsburg
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.