Art Therapy in Saint Cloud, MN

Photo of Brenda J. Arnold, NCC, LPCC, FMCHC, Counselor
Brenda J. Arnold
Counselor, NCC, LPCC, FMCHC
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301  (Online Only)
I combine a health and wellness approach to counseling while integrating innovative technology, art, music/movement with a mindfulness-based approach.
Uncertainty and stress are a part of everyone’s life, but when these stressors impact your mind and body to the point of interfering with daily life, it is important to address those negative thought patterns, problem behaviors or past trauma that continue to get in the way of becoming your best self. It is my goal to offer non-judgmental support as you learn to develop positive coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts/behaviors and let go of old patterns that keep you stuck. Explore the benefits of blending integrative counseling techniques with health & wellness coaching to help you achieve lasting lifestyle change.
I combine a health and wellness approach to counseling while integrating innovative technology, art, music/movement with a mindfulness-based approach.
Uncertainty and stress are a part of everyone’s life, but when these stressors impact your mind and body to the point of interfering with daily life, it is important to address those negative thought patterns, problem behaviors or past trauma that continue to get in the way of becoming your best self. It is my goal to offer non-judgmental support as you learn to develop positive coping skills, challenge unhelpful thoughts/behaviors and let go of old patterns that keep you stuck. Explore the benefits of blending integrative counseling techniques with health & wellness coaching to help you achieve lasting lifestyle change.
(320) 295-1948 View (320) 295-1948
Photo of Elizabeth Douglas - Yellow Wallpaper Therapy, MA, LADC, LPCC, Counselor
Yellow Wallpaper Therapy
Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56302  (Online Only)
Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy indulging in creating art and being in the artistic community, spending time with my adult children and our cats, and volunteering with Pride and GPS.
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I'm Elizabeth, and over my last 18 years of helping others I've put my warm, gentle and quirky personality into creating a safe place for therapy. I have put my focus on working with depression, PTSD & trauma, anxiety, BPD and those on the Autism spectrum. I enjoy working with neuro divergent adults and folx in the LGBTQ+ community. Book with me now by emailing me or clicking on my website to schedule a Free 15 min consult! I would love to connect and begin your journey to self-improvement.
Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy indulging in creating art and being in the artistic community, spending time with my adult children and our cats, and volunteering with Pride and GPS.
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I'm Elizabeth, and over my last 18 years of helping others I've put my warm, gentle and quirky personality into creating a safe place for therapy. I have put my focus on working with depression, PTSD & trauma, anxiety, BPD and those on the Autism spectrum. I enjoy working with neuro divergent adults and folx in the LGBTQ+ community. Book with me now by emailing me or clicking on my website to schedule a Free 15 min consult! I would love to connect and begin your journey to self-improvement.
(763) 363-3679 View (763) 363-3679
Photo of Kayla M Ward, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayla M Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
It's normal to get stuck and it's normal to struggle and it's not a place we want to stay in for long. Are you tired of struggling and ready to start being healthy and happy? Imagine your ideal life: you have insight, you know how to manage daily struggles in a healthy way, you make sound decisions, your relationships are warm, and your thoughts are positive! I will help you realize the solutions you already hold inside. I'll also help you develop skills that will help you be who you most want to be regardless of what life throws your way.
It's normal to get stuck and it's normal to struggle and it's not a place we want to stay in for long. Are you tired of struggling and ready to start being healthy and happy? Imagine your ideal life: you have insight, you know how to manage daily struggles in a healthy way, you make sound decisions, your relationships are warm, and your thoughts are positive! I will help you realize the solutions you already hold inside. I'll also help you develop skills that will help you be who you most want to be regardless of what life throws your way.
(320) 227-3284 View (320) 227-3284
Photo of Leslie Russell-Martin - True Balance Counseling, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S, Psychologist
True Balance Counseling
Psychologist, MS, LMFT, PhD, LP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
Anxiety? Depression? Just sick and tired of being sick and tired? We get it. Life can be a pain in the .....well.... a pain. Sometimes we just have to let it all out. Our team of experienced therapists get it. Trauma? YEP! ADHD? YEP! Military and public service? YEP! Let us help. We can offer you an alternative, non- doctory, take of your shoes and be comfy, place to let it all start to heal. We work with children, adults, couples, and families. Let us help you, help yourself.
(320) 632-5524 View (320) 632-5524
Photo of Elina Saakova, LGSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elina Saakova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Cloud, MN 56301  (Online Only)
I love working with a variety of age groups and value diversity, culture, and individualism. My approach is culturally sensitive and person-centered. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and caring. I believe that the differences we have is what makes this world beautiful.
I love working with a variety of age groups and value diversity, culture, and individualism. My approach is culturally sensitive and person-centered. I am compassionate, non-judgmental, and caring. I believe that the differences we have is what makes this world beautiful.
(651) 867-4245 View (651) 867-4245
Photo of Erin Simonson, MSW, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Simonson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Looking for a genuine and down-to-earth therapist to offer professional mental health services and support as you walk on your journey into the great unknown of life? I can be there as you combat life's challenges with issues such as Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Addiction Recovery, Parenting and any emotional/behavioral concerns. With 18 years of experience as a counselor I can help you identify the underlying issues that are contributing to the strife in your life while empowering you to identify the strengths that will help you reach your highest potential.
Looking for a genuine and down-to-earth therapist to offer professional mental health services and support as you walk on your journey into the great unknown of life? I can be there as you combat life's challenges with issues such as Stress, Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Addiction Recovery, Parenting and any emotional/behavioral concerns. With 18 years of experience as a counselor I can help you identify the underlying issues that are contributing to the strife in your life while empowering you to identify the strengths that will help you reach your highest potential.
(320) 238-9586 View (320) 238-9586
Photo of Claudia Petcu, MSW, LPsy, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
(612) 712-5203 View (612) 712-5203
Photo of Katelyn Norwood, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Katelyn Norwood
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56303
Welcome, I’m so happy you’re here! I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. Being a recent college graduate myself (in 2022), I know how challenging it can be to try to find your place in the world. It can be overwhelming and confusing which is why my goal is to work alongside you to help establish & accomplish your desired goals/personal growth. I aim to find the right balance between challenging you to achieve your full potential & just meeting you where you’re at. I work with ages 10+, teens, and adults.
Welcome, I’m so happy you’re here! I enjoy working with individuals struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. Being a recent college graduate myself (in 2022), I know how challenging it can be to try to find your place in the world. It can be overwhelming and confusing which is why my goal is to work alongside you to help establish & accomplish your desired goals/personal growth. I aim to find the right balance between challenging you to achieve your full potential & just meeting you where you’re at. I work with ages 10+, teens, and adults.
(320) 238-9568 View (320) 238-9568
Photo of Hannah Rogak, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Rogak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Saint Cloud, MN 56301
Not accepting new clients
As my profile states, I am unable to start with new clients at this time- Sometimes people miss that when they message me and I want to be clear! The people I enjoy working with most are the ones who aren't sure therapy is for them, or haven't had great experiences in the past. I get what it's like for therapy not to go well. Maybe they're nervous I'll side with their spouse. Maybe they're worried it'll be too much too fast. The best part of my job is discovering the unique stories of each person who comes into my office, then developing a relationship to support their progress towards a more comfortable, resilient way of living.
As my profile states, I am unable to start with new clients at this time- Sometimes people miss that when they message me and I want to be clear! The people I enjoy working with most are the ones who aren't sure therapy is for them, or haven't had great experiences in the past. I get what it's like for therapy not to go well. Maybe they're nervous I'll side with their spouse. Maybe they're worried it'll be too much too fast. The best part of my job is discovering the unique stories of each person who comes into my office, then developing a relationship to support their progress towards a more comfortable, resilient way of living.
(320) 348-7513 View (320) 348-7513

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Gustafson, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Gustafson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Waite Park, MN 56387
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist, and owner of Eagle’s Nest Counseling.
Hello! I'm Emily Gustafson, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe strongly in clients' innate wisdom, and I use a creative, encouraging approach to support clients to reconnect with their truth to find healing. I value authenticity, and work in a non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering style. I've worked as a therapist for 6 years. My experiences include working with children in foster care primarily focusing on trauma therapy, in an outpatient setting, within a residential chemical dependency treatment center, as well as in a partial hospitalization mental health program.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Registered Art Therapist, and owner of Eagle’s Nest Counseling.
Hello! I'm Emily Gustafson, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe strongly in clients' innate wisdom, and I use a creative, encouraging approach to support clients to reconnect with their truth to find healing. I value authenticity, and work in a non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering style. I've worked as a therapist for 6 years. My experiences include working with children in foster care primarily focusing on trauma therapy, in an outpatient setting, within a residential chemical dependency treatment center, as well as in a partial hospitalization mental health program.
(320) 200-7894 View (320) 200-7894

Online Therapists

Photo of Natasha A Green, MA, ATR, LPCC
Natasha A Green
MA, ATR, LPCC
Verified Verified
Anoka, MN 55303
Through art making, creative expression, and verbal processing, I will help you work through daily and life challenges. I will help you decrease and manage anxiety and depression through education and learning coping skills and grounding techniques. I believe that gaining insight through introspection and vulnerability increase self-worth and resiliency. I strive to provide a comforting, judgement-free environment for all, because I truly believe a successful therapy journey relies on the therapeutic relationship. As a biracial woman (Black and Japanese), I aim to be a source of support and healing for the BIPOC community.
Through art making, creative expression, and verbal processing, I will help you work through daily and life challenges. I will help you decrease and manage anxiety and depression through education and learning coping skills and grounding techniques. I believe that gaining insight through introspection and vulnerability increase self-worth and resiliency. I strive to provide a comforting, judgement-free environment for all, because I truly believe a successful therapy journey relies on the therapeutic relationship. As a biracial woman (Black and Japanese), I aim to be a source of support and healing for the BIPOC community.
View
Photo of Melissa Erickson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Erickson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayzata, MN 55391
Treatment modalities/ techniques utilized are: ART Therapy (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Discernment Counseling, Person Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Art & Play Therapy for children.
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
Treatment modalities/ techniques utilized are: ART Therapy (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Discernment Counseling, Person Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Art & Play Therapy for children.
I specialize in working with clients 9 - 65+ years old. Clinical expertise includes 20+ years of experience working with clients who have concerns related to: grief & bereavement, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic abuse, relationship conflict, family conflict due to: separation or divorce, parenting issues, boundaries, unemployment & financial problems, illness or disability of a family member, taking on a caretaker role for a child, and/or parent, or both. Sudden death, long term illness of a family member, and dealing with mental illness within the family system.
(763) 284-8698 View (763) 284-8698
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 Jessee Daley, MA, LPCC, CIMHP, Counselor
Jessee Daley
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407  (Online Only)
(3) Advanced training in: trauma therapy, grief therapy, art therapy, spiritual therapies, and energy psychology (Reiki Master certification).
Accepting New Clients. Integrative, holistic, intuitive, and customized therapy approach for those who seek a greater understanding of themselves and their relationships. I specialize in Integrative Therapy and have advanced training in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy integration. My overall therapeutic approach is to explore emotions and behaviors, understand experiences and hurts, and assist in identifying and utilizing natural strengths to increase ability to deal with the stressors unique to you. I also specialize in working with Highly Sensitive people, entrepreneurs, writers, creatives, and caregivers.
(3) Advanced training in: trauma therapy, grief therapy, art therapy, spiritual therapies, and energy psychology (Reiki Master certification).
Accepting New Clients. Integrative, holistic, intuitive, and customized therapy approach for those who seek a greater understanding of themselves and their relationships. I specialize in Integrative Therapy and have advanced training in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy integration. My overall therapeutic approach is to explore emotions and behaviors, understand experiences and hurts, and assist in identifying and utilizing natural strengths to increase ability to deal with the stressors unique to you. I also specialize in working with Highly Sensitive people, entrepreneurs, writers, creatives, and caregivers.
(763) 400-8937 View (763) 400-8937
Photo of Michelle Finley, MA, LMFT, DMFTABD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Finley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, DMFTABD
Verified Verified
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
I also incorporate experiential exercises such as art, journaling, and mindfulness into sessions when it is requested and beneficial to clients.
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships difficult? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
I also incorporate experiential exercises such as art, journaling, and mindfulness into sessions when it is requested and beneficial to clients.
Have you lost someone or something that is important to you? Is life presenting you with changes that are difficult to navigate? Are relationships difficult? Has your past created difficulties that you just can't seem to separate from? Do you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to raise perfect kids and meet the needs of everyone around you?  Does your family need help? Are you a helper or therapist and need your own support? I am here, to connect with you and help you feel better.
(763) 600-1315 View (763) 600-1315
Photo of Amber Rosier, MSW, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Rosier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brainerd, MN 56401
Waitlist for new clients
I have 4+ years of experience in working with trauma in all ages and genders. I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and it is helping so many people in a short amount of time! Contact me for a consultation regarding ART. I also work with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other diagnoses.
I have 4+ years of experience in working with trauma in all ages and genders. I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and it is helping so many people in a short amount of time! Contact me for a consultation regarding ART. I also work with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other diagnoses.
(218) 357-4567 View (218) 357-4567
Photo of Kari Vacinek, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Vacinek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chanhassen, MN 55317
I see clients of all ages, including individuals and families. My areas of interest include; anxiety and depression, ADD and ADHD, adjustment disorders, recovery from trauma, grief and loss, and disenfranchised grief. I have training in various modalities of therapy such a play therapy, art therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, Adaptive Internal Relational (AIR) Network, and trauma systems therapy.
I see clients of all ages, including individuals and families. My areas of interest include; anxiety and depression, ADD and ADHD, adjustment disorders, recovery from trauma, grief and loss, and disenfranchised grief. I have training in various modalities of therapy such a play therapy, art therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, Adaptive Internal Relational (AIR) Network, and trauma systems therapy.
(952) 800-7346 View (952) 800-7346
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 Clare Beardsley, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clare Beardsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
I offer both traditional talk therapy and also art therapy for adults, adolescents, and couples.
I focus on meeting clients where they are at, offering a safe and supported space to express the past and present challenges that can disrupt and occupy areas of their lives. I also highlight accountability and appropriately challenging clients to apply the things processed and discovered in therapy into their daily lives. I work with clients using a strength based, client-centered, and collaborative approach. I also assist individuals in creating and maintaining lifelong skills to better manage challenges and current symptoms.
I offer both traditional talk therapy and also art therapy for adults, adolescents, and couples.
I focus on meeting clients where they are at, offering a safe and supported space to express the past and present challenges that can disrupt and occupy areas of their lives. I also highlight accountability and appropriately challenging clients to apply the things processed and discovered in therapy into their daily lives. I work with clients using a strength based, client-centered, and collaborative approach. I also assist individuals in creating and maintaining lifelong skills to better manage challenges and current symptoms.
(651) 877-6479 View (651) 877-6479
Photo of Kaitlin Rooney, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlin Rooney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hutchinson, MN 55350
I am a certified ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) Therapist.
Hello! Are you seeking some support but feel unclear about what you need right now? Are you encountering challenges coping with all the changes taking place in your life, in your relationships, and within yourself? Are you feeling or suppressing emotions that you do not want to feel? If any of these questions resonate with you, I may be able to help. Seeking help is the first courageous step toward the healing process & overall wellness. Sometimes we all need a bit of extra support. Therapy can be the key to increasing insight into relationships you have with yourself and others.
I am a certified ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) Therapist.
Hello! Are you seeking some support but feel unclear about what you need right now? Are you encountering challenges coping with all the changes taking place in your life, in your relationships, and within yourself? Are you feeling or suppressing emotions that you do not want to feel? If any of these questions resonate with you, I may be able to help. Seeking help is the first courageous step toward the healing process & overall wellness. Sometimes we all need a bit of extra support. Therapy can be the key to increasing insight into relationships you have with yourself and others.
(320) 383-8367 View (320) 383-8367

Nearby Art Therapy Searches for Saint Cloud

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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.