Art Therapy in Ashland, OR

Photo of Lacey Renae Corbett, MA, QMHP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacey Renae Corbett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
The art making process is a healing activity that allows people to create new realities, practice new ideas, and symbolically heal emotional wounds from the past and present.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a licensed therapist in Southern Oregon, providing in-person and telehealth sessions. I have over 13 years of experience utilizing mindfulness-based practices and Art Therapy, along with traditional counseling services (primarily CBT), for individuals ages 11+. I obtained a Bachelor of Science at Southern Oregon University and a Master of Arts from Naropa University in Boulder, CO. Naropa is known for their contemplative-based (Buddhist inspired) education model.
The art making process is a healing activity that allows people to create new realities, practice new ideas, and symbolically heal emotional wounds from the past and present.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am a licensed therapist in Southern Oregon, providing in-person and telehealth sessions. I have over 13 years of experience utilizing mindfulness-based practices and Art Therapy, along with traditional counseling services (primarily CBT), for individuals ages 11+. I obtained a Bachelor of Science at Southern Oregon University and a Master of Arts from Naropa University in Boulder, CO. Naropa is known for their contemplative-based (Buddhist inspired) education model.
(541) 982-3194 View (541) 982-3194
Photo of Kasey Hayden, MA, MEd, QMHP, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kasey Hayden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, QMHP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
My diverse training allows me to help clients using CBT, Somatic EMDR, yoga/mindfulness, attachment based, somatic therapy, art/play therapy, family systems and extended training in SPACE: Supportive Parenting of Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I am passionate about being there for others helping them discover their strengths, build their resilience and increase their joy. My approach is client-centered and focuses on empathy, compassion, and being there for others so they feel truly seen. My hope is to meet clients where they are in each moment and help them find their inner strength to be their truest self. I am a wife, mother, and survivor of infertility that can relate to the struggles and joys of parenting and navigating relationships. I love to support parents, children, women and couples as they try to find their way during challenging times.
My diverse training allows me to help clients using CBT, Somatic EMDR, yoga/mindfulness, attachment based, somatic therapy, art/play therapy, family systems and extended training in SPACE: Supportive Parenting of Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I am passionate about being there for others helping them discover their strengths, build their resilience and increase their joy. My approach is client-centered and focuses on empathy, compassion, and being there for others so they feel truly seen. My hope is to meet clients where they are in each moment and help them find their inner strength to be their truest self. I am a wife, mother, and survivor of infertility that can relate to the struggles and joys of parenting and navigating relationships. I love to support parents, children, women and couples as they try to find their way during challenging times.
(458) 203-8755 View (458) 203-8755
Photo of Rochelle De Forrest, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rochelle De Forrest
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
I use art, play and other forms of creative techniques to help clients connect with and express thoughts, feelings and needs.
I believe that everyone can heal, and my goal is to facilitate healing for clients through the therapeutic process. People tend to heal and thrive in a therapeutic environment in which they fell listened to and understood, and that provides them with genuineness, sincerity, openness, acceptance and unconditional positive regard. I hope to match my approach to each client, specifically to their needs. At my office, I have 2 counseling rooms - one for children and one for teens and adults.
I use art, play and other forms of creative techniques to help clients connect with and express thoughts, feelings and needs.
I believe that everyone can heal, and my goal is to facilitate healing for clients through the therapeutic process. People tend to heal and thrive in a therapeutic environment in which they fell listened to and understood, and that provides them with genuineness, sincerity, openness, acceptance and unconditional positive regard. I hope to match my approach to each client, specifically to their needs. At my office, I have 2 counseling rooms - one for children and one for teens and adults.
(541) 920-1656 View (541) 920-1656
Photo of Anne Beaufort Art Therapist, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne Beaufort Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I also offer EMDR for trauma healing, & art therapy, which combines talk therapy with self-expression through art.
If you are looking for a nurturing therapeutic relationship for processing difficult situations or troubling emotions, I think you will find that my therapeutic style is welcoming & encouraging. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor & a Board-Certified Art Therapist with 8 years of post-graduate counseling experience & lots of life experience. I do this work out of a passion for helping others to heal from emotional wounds and to thrive. I will offer you the space to be heard, practical wisdom, & mindfulness practices for daily living that can bring moments of peace or pleasure even in difficult times.
I also offer EMDR for trauma healing, & art therapy, which combines talk therapy with self-expression through art.
If you are looking for a nurturing therapeutic relationship for processing difficult situations or troubling emotions, I think you will find that my therapeutic style is welcoming & encouraging. I am a Licensed Profession Counselor & a Board-Certified Art Therapist with 8 years of post-graduate counseling experience & lots of life experience. I do this work out of a passion for helping others to heal from emotional wounds and to thrive. I will offer you the space to be heard, practical wisdom, & mindfulness practices for daily living that can bring moments of peace or pleasure even in difficult times.
(541) 204-3099 View (541) 204-3099
Photo of Lisa B Izadpanah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa B Izadpanah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 25 years and have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years. In my private practice, I specialize in Trauma Play Therapy with children 2 yrs-10 yrs, EMDR, Ego State Therapy/Structural Dissociation, high conflict custody cases, and foster/adoption cases. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapist, Register Play Therapist, Certified Experiential Play Therapist, Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Therapist, and Ego State Therapy . I also have extensive training in Art and Sand Tray Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Pet Assisted Therapy.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 25 years and have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years. In my private practice, I specialize in Trauma Play Therapy with children 2 yrs-10 yrs, EMDR, Ego State Therapy/Structural Dissociation, high conflict custody cases, and foster/adoption cases. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapist, Register Play Therapist, Certified Experiential Play Therapist, Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Therapist, and Ego State Therapy . I also have extensive training in Art and Sand Tray Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Pet Assisted Therapy.
(541) 275-6062 View (541) 275-6062
Photo of Rachel Amy Abel - Heart Space Counseling, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heart Space Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Art therapy techniques are utilized as well.
Therapy can be a bridge to get you from where you are to where you want to be. Help is on the way! Let's work together to assist you to develop awareness of feelings and thoughts and learn how to manage and cope as well as thrive. I meet you where you are. If you are feeling anxiety, depression, or having issues related to trauma exposure we can work together on your journey to wellness and improved mental health. I treat clients 18 and up. Special areas of interest include self esteem, self expression, self compassion and acceptance as well as managing life transitions.
Art therapy techniques are utilized as well.
Therapy can be a bridge to get you from where you are to where you want to be. Help is on the way! Let's work together to assist you to develop awareness of feelings and thoughts and learn how to manage and cope as well as thrive. I meet you where you are. If you are feeling anxiety, depression, or having issues related to trauma exposure we can work together on your journey to wellness and improved mental health. I treat clients 18 and up. Special areas of interest include self esteem, self expression, self compassion and acceptance as well as managing life transitions.
(541) 293-6787 View (541) 293-6787
Photo of Desiree Coutinho, MSW
Desiree Coutinho
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
My approach includes somatic, art, mindfulness, and eco-therapy techniques, engaging clients with tools for self regulation, exploration, and awareness.
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I believe as we restore connection to our soul and purpose, we gain access to greater wisdom, self-love, authenticity, creativity, and ultimately, more meaningful relationships.
My approach includes somatic, art, mindfulness, and eco-therapy techniques, engaging clients with tools for self regulation, exploration, and awareness.
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I believe as we restore connection to our soul and purpose, we gain access to greater wisdom, self-love, authenticity, creativity, and ultimately, more meaningful relationships.
(541) 834-9165 View (541) 834-9165
Photo of Jennifer Watkins - Authentic Healing, PsyD, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Authentic Healing
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, CBT, MI, parenting, family issues, special needs families, mood disorders, eating disorders, recovery, chronic pain, Brainspotting (similar to EMDR), mindfulness, anger management, depth work, and art & music therapy.
Stress levels are rising, yet we have less time to focus on our needs. Most cannot take time off work for therapy. Mothers struggling with childcare need support. Mobility issues can be a barrier to counseling. I believe that the solution is Telehealth. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to navigate life's challenges. I create a safe and supportive environment to explore thoughts and emotions authentically without judgement. Therapy and trauma work do not have to be exhausting. Together we will do small steps: identify patterns, symptom management, discover healthy ways to cope, and problem-solve.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, CBT, MI, parenting, family issues, special needs families, mood disorders, eating disorders, recovery, chronic pain, Brainspotting (similar to EMDR), mindfulness, anger management, depth work, and art & music therapy.
Stress levels are rising, yet we have less time to focus on our needs. Most cannot take time off work for therapy. Mothers struggling with childcare need support. Mobility issues can be a barrier to counseling. I believe that the solution is Telehealth. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to navigate life's challenges. I create a safe and supportive environment to explore thoughts and emotions authentically without judgement. Therapy and trauma work do not have to be exhausting. Together we will do small steps: identify patterns, symptom management, discover healthy ways to cope, and problem-solve.
(458) 227-3049 View (458) 227-3049
Photo of Galeet Gollan-Farrow (Spiritual Development), MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Galeet Gollan-Farrow (Spiritual Development)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Mindfulness, meditation, sound, art and dreamwork are all modalities I utilize along with traditional therapies such as attachment.
Hi and thanks for looking at my profile! What is different about my work is that I help people explore their struggles from a spiritual perspective. As humans we have an essential need to understand the meaning of the difficult experiences we’ve had, doing so can help release pain and shift our entire life perspective. Everyone can raise their consciousness which brings greater love, hope, joy and peace. You do not need to be stuck in negative symptoms. The best therapist is the one you feel most comfortable with, research says this is the most important factor, so trust your gut! Now offering Ketamine-Assisted Therapy!
Mindfulness, meditation, sound, art and dreamwork are all modalities I utilize along with traditional therapies such as attachment.
Hi and thanks for looking at my profile! What is different about my work is that I help people explore their struggles from a spiritual perspective. As humans we have an essential need to understand the meaning of the difficult experiences we’ve had, doing so can help release pain and shift our entire life perspective. Everyone can raise their consciousness which brings greater love, hope, joy and peace. You do not need to be stuck in negative symptoms. The best therapist is the one you feel most comfortable with, research says this is the most important factor, so trust your gut! Now offering Ketamine-Assisted Therapy!
(971) 290-1710 View (971) 290-1710
Photo of Teresa J. Connell, LPC-S, ATR-BC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teresa J. Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Neurodiverse/HSP Ally, Art Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness.
Is anger or anxiety affecting your peace and motivation? Offering current openings to virtual clients in Oregon and Texas who want to create a sense of peace and wholeness in their lives. We can work together to problem-solve some coping strategies for you. We'll discover what is in the way of your growth or motivation, dig deep into the here and now, or look for the patterns from the past. You decide where to go, and I will follow. In our time, you'll focus on taking small achievable steps that foster change, and I’ll keep you accountable and motivated.
Neurodiverse/HSP Ally, Art Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness.
Is anger or anxiety affecting your peace and motivation? Offering current openings to virtual clients in Oregon and Texas who want to create a sense of peace and wholeness in their lives. We can work together to problem-solve some coping strategies for you. We'll discover what is in the way of your growth or motivation, dig deep into the here and now, or look for the patterns from the past. You decide where to go, and I will follow. In our time, you'll focus on taking small achievable steps that foster change, and I’ll keep you accountable and motivated.
(512) 213-0575 View (512) 213-0575
Photo of Jennifer Henderson, DBH, LPC, NCC, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Waitlist for new clients
For this reason I facilitate Sandplay, Animal-assisted, Art and Play modalities that are applied through a neurodevelopmental lens.
My therapy practice has focused on interventions for complex family systems including co-parenting after divorce, raising special needs children or supporting patients with navigating agency involvement (child welfare, corrections, education). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) whose career was founded in Pediatrics. I have a strong commitment to helping families develop secure relationships and additionally offer attachment couples counseling using PACT, EFT and IFS models.
For this reason I facilitate Sandplay, Animal-assisted, Art and Play modalities that are applied through a neurodevelopmental lens.
My therapy practice has focused on interventions for complex family systems including co-parenting after divorce, raising special needs children or supporting patients with navigating agency involvement (child welfare, corrections, education). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) whose career was founded in Pediatrics. I have a strong commitment to helping families develop secure relationships and additionally offer attachment couples counseling using PACT, EFT and IFS models.
(541) 397-0961 View (541) 397-0961
Photo of Morgan Tepper, MPS, LPCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Tepper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in the use of art creation as a means to enhance self-discovery, build self-esteem, encourage self-expression, process trauma and heal from shame.
Art therapy is an effective way to process life experiences that feel unspeakable. Creative Arts Therapy may also assist individuals experiencing creative blocks. Note: One does not need to be a fine artist to engage in Art Therapy; all creative levels are welcome!
My practice specializes in the use of art creation as a means to enhance self-discovery, build self-esteem, encourage self-expression, process trauma and heal from shame.
Art therapy is an effective way to process life experiences that feel unspeakable. Creative Arts Therapy may also assist individuals experiencing creative blocks. Note: One does not need to be a fine artist to engage in Art Therapy; all creative levels are welcome!
(971) 272-8657 View (971) 272-8657
Photo of Lauren Pollock, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Pollock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced a loss that has deeply impacted your life and functioning? Have you or a loved one received a difficult diagnosis? Are you looking for tools and coping strategies to assist you in taking an active role in your grieving process? I provide compassionate and practical support as you navigate the challenges and transitions of life. I specialize in grief, bereavement, and life transitions. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, and elderly populations in both individual and group settings.
Have you experienced a loss that has deeply impacted your life and functioning? Have you or a loved one received a difficult diagnosis? Are you looking for tools and coping strategies to assist you in taking an active role in your grieving process? I provide compassionate and practical support as you navigate the challenges and transitions of life. I specialize in grief, bereavement, and life transitions. I have experience working with children, teens, adults, and elderly populations in both individual and group settings.
(541) 305-7872 View (541) 305-7872
Photo of Toni Richmond, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toni Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
I have been working with children, teens, families and couples for almost 33 years. I provide a safe environment, creating a space for you to feel heard, work on issues brought to the session and manage whatever life lessons need to be learned. I work with clients who have experienced physical & sexual abuse ,grief, loss, separation & divorce, reunification, parenting issues, anger, PTSD, self injurious behaviors, ADHD, domestic violence, depression, critical incidence response, suicide and veterans issues.
(541) 663-4860 View (541) 663-4860
Photo of Michael J. Mesmer, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael J. Mesmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
Alternatives increase our choices in life. Alternative psychotherapy considers all aspects of living, including work, lifestyle and spiritual practice, as well as thoughts and feelings, in healing our mind, body and spirit.
(458) 231-8560 View (458) 231-8560
Photo of Nikki Day, MSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikki Day
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Existing in the world today is challenging on its own, now add depression, anxiety, panic attacks, interpersonal and family relationship concerns, money and health issues, etc. This can make daily functioning seem like an impossible task. It is within my personal belief that every individual has the ability to manage these symptoms on their own and thrive in the world, we just sometimes need additional support. This is where therapy comes in. I provide a nonjudgemental approach to helping my clients achieve overall wellness so that happiness and joy don't just feel like a distant thought.
Existing in the world today is challenging on its own, now add depression, anxiety, panic attacks, interpersonal and family relationship concerns, money and health issues, etc. This can make daily functioning seem like an impossible task. It is within my personal belief that every individual has the ability to manage these symptoms on their own and thrive in the world, we just sometimes need additional support. This is where therapy comes in. I provide a nonjudgemental approach to helping my clients achieve overall wellness so that happiness and joy don't just feel like a distant thought.
(541) 537-8848 View (541) 537-8848
Photo of Sarah Grubbs, MS, NCC
Sarah Grubbs
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
Therapy is an invitation to explore life experiences in a safe and supportive environment; an opportunity to gain insight into what drives your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. My goal is to help clients liberate stuck consciousness and help them re-member their true selves. I provide a neutral ground to clients and my primary focus is working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression and impacts of trauma. I see my clients as the expert in their own lives and therapy as a chance to reconnect with their inner resources, and what gives them purpose and meaning.
Therapy is an invitation to explore life experiences in a safe and supportive environment; an opportunity to gain insight into what drives your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. My goal is to help clients liberate stuck consciousness and help them re-member their true selves. I provide a neutral ground to clients and my primary focus is working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression and impacts of trauma. I see my clients as the expert in their own lives and therapy as a chance to reconnect with their inner resources, and what gives them purpose and meaning.
(541) 275-6390 View (541) 275-6390
Photo of Mary Breton, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Breton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Do you need guidance navigating difficult emotions, past trauma, family and life transitions. Are you someone who struggles with depression or anxiety, connection to others, or could use a neutral perspective and someone to talk to? Everyone wants to feel safe and supported while going through challenges. I work with a range of age groups, from teens, to emerging adults and older, and help clients to explore different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving to increase self-awareness and improve functioning.
Do you need guidance navigating difficult emotions, past trauma, family and life transitions. Are you someone who struggles with depression or anxiety, connection to others, or could use a neutral perspective and someone to talk to? Everyone wants to feel safe and supported while going through challenges. I work with a range of age groups, from teens, to emerging adults and older, and help clients to explore different ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving to increase self-awareness and improve functioning.
(541) 256-4378 View (541) 256-4378
Photo of Fern L Snogren, LCSW, MA, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fern L Snogren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
I believe we each have a special part to play in the dance of life and that sometimes we need to put to rest old patterns or fears so we can respond to life in the most authentic way possible. If you find yourself stuck in limiting relational patterns, disconnected from yourself, depressed, anxious, fearful, confused, angry or in chronic physical pain, I can offer my 27 years of clinical experience, the safe space and carefully facilitated, deep, mindful, body-based exploration that will help you find your way home and engaging with your world more authentically and effectively.
I believe we each have a special part to play in the dance of life and that sometimes we need to put to rest old patterns or fears so we can respond to life in the most authentic way possible. If you find yourself stuck in limiting relational patterns, disconnected from yourself, depressed, anxious, fearful, confused, angry or in chronic physical pain, I can offer my 27 years of clinical experience, the safe space and carefully facilitated, deep, mindful, body-based exploration that will help you find your way home and engaging with your world more authentically and effectively.
(541) 526-7971 View (541) 526-7971
Photo of Autumn Stoutenburgh - Neurodivergence Affirming, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn Stoutenburgh - Neurodivergence Affirming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Come as you are to this space and be accepted. While the goals of therapy for each individual vary, a common goal is to be able to experience a range of emotions and have the tools and skills to cope with them. I am here to support you in this journey, regardless of what place you are starting from. I work with two main groups of people. The first being children aged 1-10 and their families, usually on the topics of neurodivergence (specifically ADHD and OCD), attachment and relationship, foster care and adoption. The second group being adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic health challenges, and parenting.
Come as you are to this space and be accepted. While the goals of therapy for each individual vary, a common goal is to be able to experience a range of emotions and have the tools and skills to cope with them. I am here to support you in this journey, regardless of what place you are starting from. I work with two main groups of people. The first being children aged 1-10 and their families, usually on the topics of neurodivergence (specifically ADHD and OCD), attachment and relationship, foster care and adoption. The second group being adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, chronic health challenges, and parenting.
(541) 845-8094 View (541) 845-8094
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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.