Art Therapy in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Jocelyn Thoemke, MEd, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jocelyn Thoemke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Art therapy allows for expression and processing of feelings and experiences without having to put things into words, and can make talking about difficult things easier.
Jocelyn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board-Certified Art Therapist with 13 years of experience supporting clients through talk and art therapy. Her practice is focused on working with individuals who identify as neurodivergent and seek support exploring this as well as those seeking support with challenges like sensory processing differences, self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and difficulty with social relationships. Jocelyn will support you in harnessing your creativity to feel more empowered, confident, to find more ease in life.
Art therapy allows for expression and processing of feelings and experiences without having to put things into words, and can make talking about difficult things easier.
Jocelyn is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board-Certified Art Therapist with 13 years of experience supporting clients through talk and art therapy. Her practice is focused on working with individuals who identify as neurodivergent and seek support exploring this as well as those seeking support with challenges like sensory processing differences, self-esteem, general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and difficulty with social relationships. Jocelyn will support you in harnessing your creativity to feel more empowered, confident, to find more ease in life.
(612) 255-9526 View (612) 255-9526
Photo of Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga, MA, ATR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
My specialty is art psychotherapy.
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience. The beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
My specialty is art psychotherapy.
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience. The beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
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Photo of Annikki Hockert - Väki Holistic Healing, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Väki Holistic Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Mental Health Therapy/Psychotherapy; Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART); Ecotherapy (Walk & Talk in Nature); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT); Creative Art; Somatic; Psychoeducation; Meditation & Mindfulness; Healing Workshops; & Retreats.
Väki Holistic Healing offers Mental Health Therapy for individuals, families, & groups in person, virtually, & outside in nature. With the whole self approach, together we focus on mind, body, & soul rejuvenation. In therapy, you will find that it is a comfortable, calm, safe, & brave space to help you soothe as we work through life’s moments; all while finding your authentic self through this dance called life. Väki also offers healing workshops & retreats. Väki is the Finnish ancient word for life force energy; similar to chi, mana, aka, prana.
Mental Health Therapy/Psychotherapy; Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART); Ecotherapy (Walk & Talk in Nature); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT); Creative Art; Somatic; Psychoeducation; Meditation & Mindfulness; Healing Workshops; & Retreats.
Väki Holistic Healing offers Mental Health Therapy for individuals, families, & groups in person, virtually, & outside in nature. With the whole self approach, together we focus on mind, body, & soul rejuvenation. In therapy, you will find that it is a comfortable, calm, safe, & brave space to help you soothe as we work through life’s moments; all while finding your authentic self through this dance called life. Väki also offers healing workshops & retreats. Väki is the Finnish ancient word for life force energy; similar to chi, mana, aka, prana.
(651) 371-0035 View (651) 371-0035
Photo of Auden O'Connell, MPS, LPCC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Auden O'Connell
Counselor, MPS, LPCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55413
I'm currently taking new clients for in-person sessions utilizing art therapy, EMDR, and/or Brainspotting.
I'm Auden O’Connell (she/her) and I’m a therapist, EMDR trained, board certified and registered art therapist. Collaboration, play, humor, and creativity are all central to my therapeutic process with my clients. I am enthusiastic about creatively collaborating with my clients. My practice is guided through a feminist and body neutral lens. I'm LGBTQIA+ and auDHD. I believe that the client is the expert and I am a guide to assist in the client's journey.
I'm currently taking new clients for in-person sessions utilizing art therapy, EMDR, and/or Brainspotting.
I'm Auden O’Connell (she/her) and I’m a therapist, EMDR trained, board certified and registered art therapist. Collaboration, play, humor, and creativity are all central to my therapeutic process with my clients. I am enthusiastic about creatively collaborating with my clients. My practice is guided through a feminist and body neutral lens. I'm LGBTQIA+ and auDHD. I believe that the client is the expert and I am a guide to assist in the client's journey.
(651) 467-5095 View (651) 467-5095
Photo of Jessica Hansen, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Reach out if you are curious about using art therapy to cultivate a fuller life.
When working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or young adult clients, I do not shy away from those who struggle with traditional power dynamics and authority. I embrace clients’ need for their autonomy to be respected and honored in our sessions. I have genuine curiosity to learn about others’ experiences, and a desire to co-create with my clients what our sessions will look and feel like. I enjoy working with both young adults and adults who are struggling to find their identity, those who have experienced trauma or attachment disruptions, and autistic clients- particularly those with PDA traits.
Reach out if you are curious about using art therapy to cultivate a fuller life.
When working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or young adult clients, I do not shy away from those who struggle with traditional power dynamics and authority. I embrace clients’ need for their autonomy to be respected and honored in our sessions. I have genuine curiosity to learn about others’ experiences, and a desire to co-create with my clients what our sessions will look and feel like. I enjoy working with both young adults and adults who are struggling to find their identity, those who have experienced trauma or attachment disruptions, and autistic clients- particularly those with PDA traits.
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Photo of Deb Goggins, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deb Goggins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55454  (Online Only)
I have a BA in Psychology and Studio Art Double Majors from Augsburg College and an MA in Clinical Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler Graduate School.
Do you need help managing stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, toxic behavior, focus/cognitive function, emotions, goal setting, motivation, achievement, career, grief, trauma, self-identity, work-life balance, or finding calm and happiness? I provide encouragement and guidance toward joy and hope with a focus on mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. I collaborate with you, and help you focus on yourself, so you find solutions that work for you. You will learn how to enrich yourself with positivity and purpose, and learn how to empower yourself to live authentically in peace.
I have a BA in Psychology and Studio Art Double Majors from Augsburg College and an MA in Clinical Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler Graduate School.
Do you need help managing stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, toxic behavior, focus/cognitive function, emotions, goal setting, motivation, achievement, career, grief, trauma, self-identity, work-life balance, or finding calm and happiness? I provide encouragement and guidance toward joy and hope with a focus on mind, body, and spirit to achieve wellness. I collaborate with you, and help you focus on yourself, so you find solutions that work for you. You will learn how to enrich yourself with positivity and purpose, and learn how to empower yourself to live authentically in peace.
(763) 292-3539 View (763) 292-3539
Photo of Pam McGowan, RN, BSN, BFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Pam McGowan
Pre-Licensed Professional, RN, BSN, BFA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55428
While I love using art therapy, we can do talk therapy only or a combo of the two—this is about creating the therapy recipe that speaks to you!.
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to st art on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
While I love using art therapy, we can do talk therapy only or a combo of the two—this is about creating the therapy recipe that speaks to you!.
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to st art on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
(763) 888-8358 View (763) 888-8358
Photo of Jessica Bruehling Cleberg, LPCC, Counselor
Jessica Bruehling Cleberg
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55405  (Online Only)
I offer a safe space to explore, express, and overcome obstacles while guiding you to live authentically and focus on your priorities. Through eclectic, person-centered approaches I can help you build trust and patience with yourself, others, and the world we live in. I offer both traditional talk therapy and Art Therapy. I have specialized experience with people who have emotional and cognitive struggles, autism, and those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or serious and persistent mental illnesses.
I offer a safe space to explore, express, and overcome obstacles while guiding you to live authentically and focus on your priorities. Through eclectic, person-centered approaches I can help you build trust and patience with yourself, others, and the world we live in. I offer both traditional talk therapy and Art Therapy. I have specialized experience with people who have emotional and cognitive struggles, autism, and those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or serious and persistent mental illnesses.
(800) 336-5973 x724 View (800) 336-5973 x724
Photo of Francesca M Bernardi, Pre-Licensed Professional
Francesca M Bernardi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I am a pre-licensed professional and completed my Masters of Art's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Naropa University. I have a foundation in mindfulness and meditation techniques, and I employ elements of art therapy and Gestalt therapy while utilizing a Transpersonal lens. In my therapy practice, I seek to encourage each individual on their unique journey towards wellness. I am also a passionate member and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a pre-licensed professional and completed my Masters of Art's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Naropa University. I have a foundation in mindfulness and meditation techniques, and I employ elements of art therapy and Gestalt therapy while utilizing a Transpersonal lens. In my therapy practice, I seek to encourage each individual on their unique journey towards wellness. I am also a passionate member and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
(612) 662-5511 x753 View (612) 662-5511 x753
Photo of Taquoia Hammick, LPCC, Counselor
Taquoia Hammick
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55412  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to the unique needs of each client and I utilize tools from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, play therapy and art therapy to give each client the best possible care.
Welcome! I’m so happy you’ve found your way here. My name is TaQuoia (they/them) but folks can also call me Tee. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I have six years of experience helping children and families from diverse backgrounds navigate challenges and develop the skills they need to achieve their goals. As a Black, Queer and Non-Binary therapist I know how important it is to validate the intersectional identities of my clients and create a space that is inclusive and affirming to all.
I tailor my approach to the unique needs of each client and I utilize tools from CBT, DBT, mindfulness, play therapy and art therapy to give each client the best possible care.
Welcome! I’m so happy you’ve found your way here. My name is TaQuoia (they/them) but folks can also call me Tee. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I have six years of experience helping children and families from diverse backgrounds navigate challenges and develop the skills they need to achieve their goals. As a Black, Queer and Non-Binary therapist I know how important it is to validate the intersectional identities of my clients and create a space that is inclusive and affirming to all.
(763) 343-6758 View (763) 343-6758
Photo of Maggie Evans, LPCC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Maggie Evans
Counselor, LPCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Life presents inevitable challenges. Problems are problems. People are not problems. I will work alongside you to be curious and draw out your innate knowing and expertise. You share in my belief in the power of metaphor and meaning-making as a healing medium. This may include creative processes with art materials or it can be through "talk therapy" as well. We will work as collaborators to achieve greater self-awareness that allows you to move forward with confidence, less fear, self judgement and criticism.
Life presents inevitable challenges. Problems are problems. People are not problems. I will work alongside you to be curious and draw out your innate knowing and expertise. You share in my belief in the power of metaphor and meaning-making as a healing medium. This may include creative processes with art materials or it can be through "talk therapy" as well. We will work as collaborators to achieve greater self-awareness that allows you to move forward with confidence, less fear, self judgement and criticism.
(612) 979-2833 View (612) 979-2833
Photo of Rj Cullen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rj Cullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Some additional pathways include: Emotion Focused, Art and Play, Narrative, and TFT.
If you (or people you love), are facing the same issue(s) in your life that you have been trying to change for years, or if something you’ve previously managed well is now becoming unmanageable, or if you’ve been “blind-sided” by a serious issue you could never have predicted, therapy can serve as a powerful ally or “touchstone” through it all. Wherever you are right now, therapy needs to “meet you there.” The most important aspect of working together, is that everything flows from your uniqueness as an individual. I believe the therapeutic process works best as a collaboration between client and therapist.
Some additional pathways include: Emotion Focused, Art and Play, Narrative, and TFT.
If you (or people you love), are facing the same issue(s) in your life that you have been trying to change for years, or if something you’ve previously managed well is now becoming unmanageable, or if you’ve been “blind-sided” by a serious issue you could never have predicted, therapy can serve as a powerful ally or “touchstone” through it all. Wherever you are right now, therapy needs to “meet you there.” The most important aspect of working together, is that everything flows from your uniqueness as an individual. I believe the therapeutic process works best as a collaboration between client and therapist.
(952) 592-7654 View (952) 592-7654
Photo of Kim M Grantier, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim M Grantier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Using art we will uncover your strengths and passions for you to live your life with joy and purpose. The answers are already within. Let's find them together.
Using art we will uncover your strengths and passions for you to live your life with joy and purpose. The answers are already within. Let's find them together.
(612) 482-7376 View (612) 482-7376
Photo of Emily Taylor, MA, ATR-BC, LPCC
Emily Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I also offer strengths-focused, art-based supervision for art therapists.
I work with clients who want to heal from PTSD using creativity to explore and tell their story in an empowered way using neuro-based art therapy in a cozy art studio or online. My clients usually have done some talk therapy or self discovery work in the p art and are ready to dig deeper to heal and build wholeness and meaning. In art therapy sessions I give my clients opportunities to explore and find what art and crafting materials they like to work with. I will follow your lead on subject matter, as we tell your story in a new way, exploring what feels important to you at this time and discovering what needs re-working.
I also offer strengths-focused, art-based supervision for art therapists.
I work with clients who want to heal from PTSD using creativity to explore and tell their story in an empowered way using neuro-based art therapy in a cozy art studio or online. My clients usually have done some talk therapy or self discovery work in the p art and are ready to dig deeper to heal and build wholeness and meaning. In art therapy sessions I give my clients opportunities to explore and find what art and crafting materials they like to work with. I will follow your lead on subject matter, as we tell your story in a new way, exploring what feels important to you at this time and discovering what needs re-working.
(651) 504-3274 View (651) 504-3274
Photo of Trisha Hartmann, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trisha Hartmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
**CONTACT VIA WWW.THROUGHTHERAPY.COM FOR REFERRAL OPTIONS-- SOME OF OUR THERAPISTS HAVE OPENINGS** Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART). My experience includes helping people with depressed mood, anxious feelings, life transitions, self-esteem, women's issues, family concerns, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative; I enjoy helping people understand their needs, strengths, and how to pave the path towards feeling their best. I support ALL relationship types and orientations.
**CONTACT VIA WWW.THROUGHTHERAPY.COM FOR REFERRAL OPTIONS-- SOME OF OUR THERAPISTS HAVE OPENINGS** Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy ( ART). My experience includes helping people with depressed mood, anxious feelings, life transitions, self-esteem, women's issues, family concerns, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative; I enjoy helping people understand their needs, strengths, and how to pave the path towards feeling their best. I support ALL relationship types and orientations.
(612) 509-8629 View (612) 509-8629
Photo of Kurt Pope, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kurt Pope
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55409
Clients and I utilize expressive therapeutic techniques such as art, metaphor, and dream work to move from intellectual analysis to a richer, more direct experience.
Distress provides us an opportunity to examine the purposefulness of our cognitive, emotional, and relational patterns in a meaningful way. If we better understand what shaped us, where we are in the present, and what we want to integrate in the future, we can take fruitful action to instill change in our lives. Different approaches to our distress are at times necessary in order to reconcile new stages of development and new parts of our selves.
Clients and I utilize expressive therapeutic techniques such as art, metaphor, and dream work to move from intellectual analysis to a richer, more direct experience.
Distress provides us an opportunity to examine the purposefulness of our cognitive, emotional, and relational patterns in a meaningful way. If we better understand what shaped us, where we are in the present, and what we want to integrate in the future, we can take fruitful action to instill change in our lives. Different approaches to our distress are at times necessary in order to reconcile new stages of development and new parts of our selves.
(612) 294-7420 View (612) 294-7420
Photo of Maris Gilbert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maris Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years experience working with individuals and families. Creativity/ art therapy is an option to support healing, insights, experiences and growth and to address issues including emotional regulation, developmental concerns, depression, anxiety, anger, parenting, attachment, family transitions, trauma, and grief.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years experience working with individuals and families. Creativity/ art therapy is an option to support healing, insights, experiences and growth and to address issues including emotional regulation, developmental concerns, depression, anxiety, anger, parenting, attachment, family transitions, trauma, and grief.
(612) 360-2486 View (612) 360-2486
Photo of Nicole Jane Gornowicz - Nicole Gornowicz, MA, LPCC, ATR, Counselor
Nicole Gornowicz
Counselor, MA, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413
I encourage healing through mindfulness, art making, trauma therapies, yoga and body work, and family systems techniques.
Hello! I am Nicole (she/her/hers) a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist. I've worked in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area for 7 years; primarily with adolescents, children, their families, and their support networks. I'm passionate about encouraging teens, young adults, families, and individuals to keep going. I aim to provide an environment that is conducive to growth through honoring who you are, what you need in the moment, and how you will get to where you'd like to be. I do this through providing a safe, comfortable, authentic, and supportive place you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I encourage healing through mindfulness, art making, trauma therapies, yoga and body work, and family systems techniques.
Hello! I am Nicole (she/her/hers) a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist. I've worked in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area for 7 years; primarily with adolescents, children, their families, and their support networks. I'm passionate about encouraging teens, young adults, families, and individuals to keep going. I aim to provide an environment that is conducive to growth through honoring who you are, what you need in the moment, and how you will get to where you'd like to be. I do this through providing a safe, comfortable, authentic, and supportive place you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(651) 372-1130 View (651) 372-1130
Photo of Patricia Jean Welch, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Jean Welch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
I help people find their voice and true selves, whose lives have been impacted by trauma and various forms of abuse in their childhood. By engaging in deep meaningful conversation and exploring with art materials in sessions, we can choose to move from survival and reactions to owning and living our lives fully. Much of traumatic experiences reside in the non-verbal p art of the brain. The use of creative art therapy allows the individual to express feelings in a visual and sensory way, allowing for a better understanding of the feeling which allows us to find our own buried truths.
I help people find their voice and true selves, whose lives have been impacted by trauma and various forms of abuse in their childhood. By engaging in deep meaningful conversation and exploring with art materials in sessions, we can choose to move from survival and reactions to owning and living our lives fully. Much of traumatic experiences reside in the non-verbal p art of the brain. The use of creative art therapy allows the individual to express feelings in a visual and sensory way, allowing for a better understanding of the feeling which allows us to find our own buried truths.
(612) 778-4313 View (612) 778-4313
Photo of Nicholas Bennett, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicholas Bennett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Whether we engage in talk therapy, experiential sessions, or creative outlets like art or music, I aim to help you leave each session feeling more empowered, hopeful, and connected to the person you want to be.
Life can often feel overwhelming and exhausting, with relentless pressures and uncertainties leading to mental, emotional, and physical strain. Having personally faced homelessness, addiction, and redemption, I understand these struggles deeply and am committed to guiding others from despair to healing and renewal. As a therapist, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my journey and 13 years of sobriety. I believe in keeping things real and value honest, direct communication. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to helping you find your path forward. I work with individuals 13+, couples and families.
Whether we engage in talk therapy, experiential sessions, or creative outlets like art or music, I aim to help you leave each session feeling more empowered, hopeful, and connected to the person you want to be.
Life can often feel overwhelming and exhausting, with relentless pressures and uncertainties leading to mental, emotional, and physical strain. Having personally faced homelessness, addiction, and redemption, I understand these struggles deeply and am committed to guiding others from despair to healing and renewal. As a therapist, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my journey and 13 years of sobriety. I believe in keeping things real and value honest, direct communication. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to helping you find your path forward. I work with individuals 13+, couples and families.
(651) 467-4015 View (651) 467-4015
1

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.