Art Therapy in Montclair, NJ

Photo of Rebecca Dennis, LPC, ATR-BC, LCADC, LCAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Dennis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, LCADC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Along with my License as a Professional Counselor (LPC) I am also a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years experience located in Montclair, New Jersey. I offer a range of therapeutic approaches depending on your needs. Together we will target the issues that bring you into therapy and seek solutions in a timely manner.
Along with my License as a Professional Counselor (LPC) I am also a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years experience located in Montclair, New Jersey. I offer a range of therapeutic approaches depending on your needs. Together we will target the issues that bring you into therapy and seek solutions in a timely manner.
(973) 874-1844 View (973) 874-1844
Photo of Molly Grimes - Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness, LLC, PsyD, LCSW, CED-S, Psychologist
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, CED-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Our integrative approach to treatment includes evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy, alongside innovative treatments like art therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy.
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice focused on helping people of all ages struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Additionally, we have particularly expertise working with adolescents dealing with a host of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship/ social problems, ADHD, generalized trauma, and other mental health concerns.
Our integrative approach to treatment includes evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy, alongside innovative treatments like art therapy, play therapy, and sand tray therapy.
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice focused on helping people of all ages struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Additionally, we have particularly expertise working with adolescents dealing with a host of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship/ social problems, ADHD, generalized trauma, and other mental health concerns.
(973) 221-4788 View (973) 221-4788
Photo of Monica M. Wright, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica M. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043  (Online Only)
I utilize a blend of talk therapy, art therapy, and a solution-focused approach to help meet your goals while creating a supportive and compassionate environment.
Starting therapy can feel daunting and at times can seem more like a leap than a step. There is value in having a safe and nonjudgmental space to process and navigate overwhelming thoughts and emotions. My name is Monica Wright (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist who seeks to create the therapeutic space you need to address anxiety, maladaptive behaviors, and life's many stressors.
I utilize a blend of talk therapy, art therapy, and a solution-focused approach to help meet your goals while creating a supportive and compassionate environment.
Starting therapy can feel daunting and at times can seem more like a leap than a step. There is value in having a safe and nonjudgmental space to process and navigate overwhelming thoughts and emotions. My name is Monica Wright (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist who seeks to create the therapeutic space you need to address anxiety, maladaptive behaviors, and life's many stressors.
(862) 378-2993 View (862) 378-2993
Photo of Ashley Wilson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I specialize in working with female clients facing challenges ranging from Stress, Anxiety, Divorce, Confidence, Relationships, Depression, Career Challenges, and other life changes. My clients come to me knowing they are ready for a change. I use CBT, mindfulness, dance movement therapy, motivational interviewing, spirituality, confidence building, ecotherapy, and art therapy. Every client is unique and I believe that the therapeutic experience should be as well. If you have been doubting your abilities I am here to empower you and listen.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with female clients facing challenges ranging from Stress, Anxiety, Divorce, Confidence, Relationships, Depression, Career Challenges, and other life changes. My clients come to me knowing they are ready for a change. I use CBT, mindfulness, dance movement therapy, motivational interviewing, spirituality, confidence building, ecotherapy, and art therapy. Every client is unique and I believe that the therapeutic experience should be as well. If you have been doubting your abilities I am here to empower you and listen.
(973) 510-0098 View (973) 510-0098
Photo of Laura Holland, LPC, ATR, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
My goal is to support you in finding meaning and being more present in your life, utilizing a holistic approach that fits your unique strengths, needs, and culture. I am passionate about supporting teens, adults, and couples through this client-lead, goal-oriented approach. I am a counselor, art therapist, and certified in EMDR. These approaches allow me to meet a wide array of client needs, from day-to-day stress and anxiety, to the healing of deep trauma wounds or other stuck points as we expand toward your new areas of growth. Together, we will focus on your strengths to create a plan that feels supportive and achievable for you.
My goal is to support you in finding meaning and being more present in your life, utilizing a holistic approach that fits your unique strengths, needs, and culture. I am passionate about supporting teens, adults, and couples through this client-lead, goal-oriented approach. I am a counselor, art therapist, and certified in EMDR. These approaches allow me to meet a wide array of client needs, from day-to-day stress and anxiety, to the healing of deep trauma wounds or other stuck points as we expand toward your new areas of growth. Together, we will focus on your strengths to create a plan that feels supportive and achievable for you.
(973) 791-8508 View (973) 791-8508
Photo of Samantha Commarato, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, ATCS, Art Therapist
Samantha Commarato
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Art making is especially effective in exploring emotional experiences and thought patterns.
I am a board certified and licensed art therapist with 20 years of experience working with youth/teens, adults, and families. I use a creative approach to support individuals in exploring interpersonal, emotional, and behavioral needs, and believe that every person has the resources within themselves to achieve any goal. I aim to work collaboratively with others and to create a comfortable, relaxed, and safe environment that supports creative expression and personal growth.
Art making is especially effective in exploring emotional experiences and thought patterns.
I am a board certified and licensed art therapist with 20 years of experience working with youth/teens, adults, and families. I use a creative approach to support individuals in exploring interpersonal, emotional, and behavioral needs, and believe that every person has the resources within themselves to achieve any goal. I aim to work collaboratively with others and to create a comfortable, relaxed, and safe environment that supports creative expression and personal growth.
(973) 419-5310 View (973) 419-5310
Photo of Pooja Bakri - Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Pooja Bakri Creative Arts Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
The art therapy process can offer clients the opportunity to communicate and express themselves through nonverbal methods such as (but not limited to) painting, expressive writing and sensory based techniques.
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
The art therapy process can offer clients the opportunity to communicate and express themselves through nonverbal methods such as (but not limited to) painting, expressive writing and sensory based techniques.
I specialize in providing creative art therapy services to individuals of all ages and am dedicated to helping my clients discover their own unique path to happiness and wellbeing. Words alone often cannot express the emotions experienced for many people who are struggling to overcome trauma or challenges in life. By combining traditional psychotherapy with the creative process, art therapy can provide opportunities to explore behaviors, emotions, and experiences. Each session can provide a wonderful outlet to relieve anxiety and stress. No previous experience in art making is needed to benefit from this therapeutic method.
(201) 429-0789 View (201) 429-0789
Photo of Jackie Tassiello, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, ATCS, LPAT, Art Therapist
Jackie Tassiello
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, ATCS, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
No prior art or creative experience is required to benefit – just curiosity and motivation to grow and heal.
I specialize in utilizing art therapy with individuals of all ages who are struggling with anxiety. When you are experiencing stress, overwhelm, grief, or times of change, it often affects every aspect of life. Art therapy is an engaging, collaborative form of therapy that combines traditional talk therapy approaches with the creative process. My adult clients often want to uncover new insights and explore themselves deeply to grow and heal, and my child and teenage clients are excited to use therapeutic art, writing, and play to process their experiences and learn new coping strategies.
No prior art or creative experience is required to benefit – just curiosity and motivation to grow and heal.
I specialize in utilizing art therapy with individuals of all ages who are struggling with anxiety. When you are experiencing stress, overwhelm, grief, or times of change, it often affects every aspect of life. Art therapy is an engaging, collaborative form of therapy that combines traditional talk therapy approaches with the creative process. My adult clients often want to uncover new insights and explore themselves deeply to grow and heal, and my child and teenage clients are excited to use therapeutic art, writing, and play to process their experiences and learn new coping strategies.
(201) 298-4449 View (201) 298-4449
Photo of Adam Daniel - Ellie Mental Health- Montclair, NJ, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health- Montclair, NJ
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
We have staff members who additionally have specialties in working with substance abuse and LGBTQ+, as well as the use of modalities like CBT, DBT, and Art Therapy.
No one’s mental health is amazing all the time. Between life events out of your control, your unique brain chemistry, and individual perspectives and tendencies, there are many reasons you might need extra support right now. We’re here to help! Let’s work together to explore strategies and resources that can support your mental health and develop a personalized plan so you can start feeling better! Our Services Include: Individual Therapy, Couples Counseling, and Family Therapy In-Person and Virtual Sessions! We work with all ages 5 and older!
We have staff members who additionally have specialties in working with substance abuse and LGBTQ+, as well as the use of modalities like CBT, DBT, and Art Therapy.
No one’s mental health is amazing all the time. Between life events out of your control, your unique brain chemistry, and individual perspectives and tendencies, there are many reasons you might need extra support right now. We’re here to help! Let’s work together to explore strategies and resources that can support your mental health and develop a personalized plan so you can start feeling better! Our Services Include: Individual Therapy, Couples Counseling, and Family Therapy In-Person and Virtual Sessions! We work with all ages 5 and older!
(973) 576-5572 View (973) 576-5572
Photo of Bobbie-Angela Wong, LSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie-Angela Wong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
As a licensed psychotherapist experienced in working with children, teens, and young adults, my passion is to provide a safe space for you to help you achieve your goals and overcome challenges. I use an eclectic approach tailored to meet your unique individual needs. I integrate strategies and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and art therapy as well as my love for yoga and mindfulness-based practice. My dual role as the lead point-person for mental health counseling in an area school affords me a unique perspective in supporting any school-related needs which may be present.
As a licensed psychotherapist experienced in working with children, teens, and young adults, my passion is to provide a safe space for you to help you achieve your goals and overcome challenges. I use an eclectic approach tailored to meet your unique individual needs. I integrate strategies and techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and art therapy as well as my love for yoga and mindfulness-based practice. My dual role as the lead point-person for mental health counseling in an area school affords me a unique perspective in supporting any school-related needs which may be present.
(201) 500-3844 View (201) 500-3844
Photo of Leslie A Trawin, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie A Trawin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also have a background in art and art therapy.
Couples in crisis,or quietly losing their way, have come to me for help in strengthening their relationships in a neutral, supportive atmosphere. I also have extensive experience with individuals (adult and children) and families. In crisis, short term or long term therapy, I am quite familiar with issues of depression, anxiety, work, or family stress. Many clients contact me regarding concerns about isolation, sexual identity, mood swings,and interpersonal relationships . Men, who often seek out therapy less readily than women, are well represented in my practice. People in the arts also occupy a large part of my work.
I also have a background in art and art therapy.
Couples in crisis,or quietly losing their way, have come to me for help in strengthening their relationships in a neutral, supportive atmosphere. I also have extensive experience with individuals (adult and children) and families. In crisis, short term or long term therapy, I am quite familiar with issues of depression, anxiety, work, or family stress. Many clients contact me regarding concerns about isolation, sexual identity, mood swings,and interpersonal relationships . Men, who often seek out therapy less readily than women, are well represented in my practice. People in the arts also occupy a large part of my work.
(201) 638-4013 View (201) 638-4013
Photo of Jessica E. Heller, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT, Art Therapist
Jessica E. Heller
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My approach is diverse, including not only visual art making, but also writing, breath work, and traditional verbal therapies to support my clients' needs through the ebb and flow of life.
There are many ways to process experiences and feelings, not simply limited to talking. Integrating psychotherapy and creative expression can provide a refreshing, insightful, and effective experience in therapy. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, anxiety and depression, stress, loss and life transitions, as well as family and relationship difficulties, among others.
My approach is diverse, including not only visual art making, but also writing, breath work, and traditional verbal therapies to support my clients' needs through the ebb and flow of life.
There are many ways to process experiences and feelings, not simply limited to talking. Integrating psychotherapy and creative expression can provide a refreshing, insightful, and effective experience in therapy. Some of my areas of focus include trauma, anxiety and depression, stress, loss and life transitions, as well as family and relationship difficulties, among others.
(646) 679-7853 View (646) 679-7853
Photo of Catherine Codella, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, ACS, Counselor
Catherine Codella
Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, ACS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My art therapy studio is a private, meditative and creative sanctuary where my clients will find a calming, confidential and safe therapy space conducive to art making, creative expression, communication and personal improvement.
I believe the creative process, inherent in everyone, can be used as a meaningful tool to help individuals develop personal insight and self- awareness. My clients are guided and supported to use art materials and the creative process to develop symbols and metaphors in their resulting art work which produces the vehicle for expression and communication. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness are also used in treatment.
My art therapy studio is a private, meditative and creative sanctuary where my clients will find a calming, confidential and safe therapy space conducive to art making, creative expression, communication and personal improvement.
I believe the creative process, inherent in everyone, can be used as a meaningful tool to help individuals develop personal insight and self- awareness. My clients are guided and supported to use art materials and the creative process to develop symbols and metaphors in their resulting art work which produces the vehicle for expression and communication. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness are also used in treatment.
(201) 355-4433 View (201) 355-4433
Photo of Suzanne Seligson, LPAT, ATR-BC, MPS, Art Therapist
Suzanne Seligson
Art Therapist, LPAT, ATR-BC, MPS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
Art psychotherapy provides deeper experiences than traditional therapy, as the unconscious is addressed through non-verbal expression.
My practice is a psychodynamic approach utilizing verbal therapy, art psychotherapy, and mindfulness. As each client has their own individual and unique experience, backgrounds, and personalities as does the treatment I provide. I work together with my clients to determine their goals and what approaches work best for them. I specialize in working with children/adults/families experiencing grief, teenagers who are transitioning from high school to college, youth and adults feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
Art psychotherapy provides deeper experiences than traditional therapy, as the unconscious is addressed through non-verbal expression.
My practice is a psychodynamic approach utilizing verbal therapy, art psychotherapy, and mindfulness. As each client has their own individual and unique experience, backgrounds, and personalities as does the treatment I provide. I work together with my clients to determine their goals and what approaches work best for them. I specialize in working with children/adults/families experiencing grief, teenagers who are transitioning from high school to college, youth and adults feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
(201) 581-1611 View (201) 581-1611
Barbara Holton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
(973) 797-9228 View (973) 797-9228
Photo of Rachel Jaslow - Creative Drive LLC - Art Therapy & Expressive Arts, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS, Art Therapist
Creative Drive LLC - Art Therapy & Expressive Arts
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
As an artist and a therapist, I see creativity as a way of thinking and my person-centered lens paired with the therapeutic benefits of art-making serve as a springboard toward recovering a sense of personal strength.
You might be wondering how Art Therapy can make a difference in your life and how it can help to overcome personal challenges. Creative interventions provide a safe space for you to gradually explore, identify, and move through feelings in productive and insightful directions. I will listen to you and together we will take a creative journey toward healing and restoration. Building trust, strengthening relationships and avoiding destructive patterns can be so hard to manage. Accessing your creative process will reduce the fears that hold you back from experiencing the joys of everyday life. I welcome the chance to work with you.
As an artist and a therapist, I see creativity as a way of thinking and my person-centered lens paired with the therapeutic benefits of art-making serve as a springboard toward recovering a sense of personal strength.
You might be wondering how Art Therapy can make a difference in your life and how it can help to overcome personal challenges. Creative interventions provide a safe space for you to gradually explore, identify, and move through feelings in productive and insightful directions. I will listen to you and together we will take a creative journey toward healing and restoration. Building trust, strengthening relationships and avoiding destructive patterns can be so hard to manage. Accessing your creative process will reduce the fears that hold you back from experiencing the joys of everyday life. I welcome the chance to work with you.
(862) 256-5610 View (862) 256-5610
Photo of Marie Caruso-Teresi, LPAT, MPS, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Marie Caruso-Teresi
Art Therapist, LPAT, MPS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
As a trauma-informed, board-certified art therapist, I have helped many clients challenged by ptsd, anxiety, depression & other mental health concerns.
When talking is not enough! It is my belief that the creative process has great transformative healing powers. No art experience needed. Offering a non-judgmental, client centered, safe environment; I facilitate individuals and groups in a journey of creativity and self-discovery to gain personal insights and new coping skills.
As a trauma-informed, board-certified art therapist, I have helped many clients challenged by ptsd, anxiety, depression & other mental health concerns.
When talking is not enough! It is my belief that the creative process has great transformative healing powers. No art experience needed. Offering a non-judgmental, client centered, safe environment; I facilitate individuals and groups in a journey of creativity and self-discovery to gain personal insights and new coping skills.
(201) 552-4853 View (201) 552-4853
Photo of Brittany Wolfson - Prismatic Counseling Services , LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prismatic Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
In addition, I provide clinical supervision for interns and counseling/ art therapy professionals.
Hi! My name is Brittany Wolfson (she/her/hers), I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and founder of Prismatic Counseling Services (PCS). I use a blend of talk therapy, art therapy and DBT skills to meet your needs in therapy. I value creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients who are struggling with anxiety, negative self-talk and maladaptive behaviors. I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ clients exploring self and/or gender identity, who want to incorporate DBT skills and want to start working in a creative environment for further exploration.
In addition, I provide clinical supervision for interns and counseling/ art therapy professionals.
Hi! My name is Brittany Wolfson (she/her/hers), I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and founder of Prismatic Counseling Services (PCS). I use a blend of talk therapy, art therapy and DBT skills to meet your needs in therapy. I value creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients who are struggling with anxiety, negative self-talk and maladaptive behaviors. I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ clients exploring self and/or gender identity, who want to incorporate DBT skills and want to start working in a creative environment for further exploration.
(201) 298-3190 View (201) 298-3190
Photo of John J Della Penna - Better Days Therapy, LLC, MA, LPC, CBHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Better Days Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CBHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Better Days Therapy is a mental health service that provides counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I work with individuals, groups and communities to improve mental health. I examine issues including substance abuse, aging, bullying, anger management, careers, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, self-image, stress and suicide. I help clients define goals, plan action and gain insight into their thought process. I develop therapeutic processes and take a holistic (mind, body, and spirit) approach to mental health care. I will perform crisis intervention and crisis counseling when needed.
Better Days Therapy is a mental health service that provides counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I work with individuals, groups and communities to improve mental health. I examine issues including substance abuse, aging, bullying, anger management, careers, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, self-image, stress and suicide. I help clients define goals, plan action and gain insight into their thought process. I develop therapeutic processes and take a holistic (mind, body, and spirit) approach to mental health care. I will perform crisis intervention and crisis counseling when needed.
(862) 772-8855 View (862) 772-8855
Photo of Sally Pitanga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Pitanga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Old patterns holding you back? Stress and anxiety gripping you? Do you just want to feel happier? Suffering from grief; or dealing with remembered trauma from childhood such as physical or sexual abuse? Problems in your relationships, with a partner/your child?
Old patterns holding you back? Stress and anxiety gripping you? Do you just want to feel happier? Suffering from grief; or dealing with remembered trauma from childhood such as physical or sexual abuse? Problems in your relationships, with a partner/your child?
(973) 657-5636 View (973) 657-5636
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.