Art Therapy in Hillsboro, OR

Photo of Jill Walsh, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Jill Walsh
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
I focus mainly on individual work by utilizing Strengths-Based Narratives, Cognitive-Behavioral modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques and Art Therapy.
Hello, my name is Jill and I am accepting new clients in Oregon. As a clinician, I derive my philosophy of care from a deep value of service, honoring diversity, empowerment, social justice, ethical practice and the importance of interpersonal relationships. My primary goal in the therapeutic process is to assist clients in building the lives they want by promoting their inherent strengths, skills and community supports. My approach to therapy is one of collaboration.
I focus mainly on individual work by utilizing Strengths-Based Narratives, Cognitive-Behavioral modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques and Art Therapy.
Hello, my name is Jill and I am accepting new clients in Oregon. As a clinician, I derive my philosophy of care from a deep value of service, honoring diversity, empowerment, social justice, ethical practice and the importance of interpersonal relationships. My primary goal in the therapeutic process is to assist clients in building the lives they want by promoting their inherent strengths, skills and community supports. My approach to therapy is one of collaboration.
(971) 395-4015 View (971) 395-4015
Photo of Elizabeth Leah Downs, LCSW, CHT, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Leah Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ DBT, Hypnotherapy, Family & Couples Therapy, Expressive Arts/ Play & Art Therapy, Addictions Counseling, NLP, Gestalt & Life Coaching, as well as Jungian Therapy.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ DBT, Hypnotherapy, Family & Couples Therapy, Expressive Arts/ Play & Art Therapy, Addictions Counseling, NLP, Gestalt & Life Coaching, as well as Jungian Therapy.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
(503) 444-9712 View (503) 444-9712
Photo of Saya Doucet, LPC, ATR, LAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Saya Doucet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, LAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124
As a trained art therapist, I not only utilize and incorporate art as another form of communication, but as a process that can assist you in developing greater self-awareness and understanding.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them”, Maya Angelou. Life is complex. Events can happen that are out of our control and it becomes difficult to navigate these storms alone. It is important to know that you are not alone. There is help and support through these storms and situations. It is okay to reach out for help. I am committed to creating the opportunity for you to have a non-judgmental, trauma-informed, inclusive & affirming space to empower your life.
As a trained art therapist, I not only utilize and incorporate art as another form of communication, but as a process that can assist you in developing greater self-awareness and understanding.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them”, Maya Angelou. Life is complex. Events can happen that are out of our control and it becomes difficult to navigate these storms alone. It is important to know that you are not alone. There is help and support through these storms and situations. It is okay to reach out for help. I am committed to creating the opportunity for you to have a non-judgmental, trauma-informed, inclusive & affirming space to empower your life.
(503) 400-3781 View (503) 400-3781
Photo of Jamie Krahulec
Jamie Krahulec
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97006
I draw on interpersonal neurobiology to explore connections between emotions and human development and incorporate sensory experiences such as sand and art into sessions.
I help people living with depression, self-identity struggles, grief, trauma and have experience working within LGBTQIA+ and ethical non-monogamous communities. The children I see have/are experiencing abuse, behavior concerns, and life stressors. My role as a therapist is to offer authentic and genuine reflections and to help strengthen your mental capacity and confidence to handle internal and external stressors. I believe we all have a story to tell, some intertwined with tragedy and challenges, and that our time together is for you to tell yours. Note: I don't work with insurance companies; only out of pocket.
I draw on interpersonal neurobiology to explore connections between emotions and human development and incorporate sensory experiences such as sand and art into sessions.
I help people living with depression, self-identity struggles, grief, trauma and have experience working within LGBTQIA+ and ethical non-monogamous communities. The children I see have/are experiencing abuse, behavior concerns, and life stressors. My role as a therapist is to offer authentic and genuine reflections and to help strengthen your mental capacity and confidence to handle internal and external stressors. I believe we all have a story to tell, some intertwined with tragedy and challenges, and that our time together is for you to tell yours. Note: I don't work with insurance companies; only out of pocket.
(503) 386-0143 View (503) 386-0143
Photo of Christine Vea, CSWA
Christine Vea
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
I believe in empowering my clients to recognize their strengths and to find healing. I seek to create safe spaces for clients to feel accepted and understood. My experience in various clinical mental health settings has allowed me the honor to work with people from all walks of life and to learn from them. I seek to continually educate myself on the impact I have in society as an educated white woman with privilege. I am a lifelong learner searching for ways to use my power and privilege as a social worker to advocate for others and fight for justice on behalf of those marginalized by society. I am here to listen and learn from you.
I believe in empowering my clients to recognize their strengths and to find healing. I seek to create safe spaces for clients to feel accepted and understood. My experience in various clinical mental health settings has allowed me the honor to work with people from all walks of life and to learn from them. I seek to continually educate myself on the impact I have in society as an educated white woman with privilege. I am a lifelong learner searching for ways to use my power and privilege as a social worker to advocate for others and fight for justice on behalf of those marginalized by society. I am here to listen and learn from you.
(541) 818-0009 x1 View (541) 818-0009 x1
Photo of Ally Ridling - Ally Ridling-Agency Has Immediate Openings!, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ally Ridling-Agency Has Immediate Openings!
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
My Practice Is Available For New Clients Immediately believe that everyone can change and grow at any time in their lives. I don't believe that there is a limit to human capacity. A person's mental health and many common mental disorders are shaped by various social, economic, and physical environments operating at different stages of life. Good mental health is integral to human health and well-being. Risk factors for many common mental disorders are heavily associated with social inequalities. I don't discriminate against anyone, and I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
My Practice Is Available For New Clients Immediately believe that everyone can change and grow at any time in their lives. I don't believe that there is a limit to human capacity. A person's mental health and many common mental disorders are shaped by various social, economic, and physical environments operating at different stages of life. Good mental health is integral to human health and well-being. Risk factors for many common mental disorders are heavily associated with social inequalities. I don't discriminate against anyone, and I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
(971) 260-4223 View (971) 260-4223
Photo of Lisa Burnell, MEd, CADCII, CAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lisa Burnell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, CADCII, CAP
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123
FIRST session by Donation (limited quantity). I believe healing from the Inside Out is essential. At Inner Journey Healing Arts we offer a safe place for adults and children to heal from addiction, domestic violence, trauma, and stressful life situations. We focus on treatment areas such as Family of Origin issues, Grief & Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and similar areas of distress related to addictions. We use a variety of Wholistic therapies to empower clients to heal and recover. Expressive Arts, Counseling, Aromatherapy, and evidence-based modalities.
FIRST session by Donation (limited quantity). I believe healing from the Inside Out is essential. At Inner Journey Healing Arts we offer a safe place for adults and children to heal from addiction, domestic violence, trauma, and stressful life situations. We focus on treatment areas such as Family of Origin issues, Grief & Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and similar areas of distress related to addictions. We use a variety of Wholistic therapies to empower clients to heal and recover. Expressive Arts, Counseling, Aromatherapy, and evidence-based modalities.
(561) 788-7637 View (561) 788-7637
Photo of Maribel Aheran - Neupathway (Maribel Aheran), Eed, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neupathway (Maribel Aheran)
Licensed Professional Counselor, Eed, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(971) 257-1057 View (971) 257-1057
Photo of Marley Small, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marley Small
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
Accepting Kaiser of Oregon. Life can sometimes be overwhelming and bumpy at times often resulting in layers of difficulties with adjusting to changes, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and much more. An ideal client for me would be an individual who is ready to become unstuck and motivated to make impactful shifts in their life. Someone who is looking for support processing life stressors and is wanting to take steps toward their goals.
Accepting Kaiser of Oregon. Life can sometimes be overwhelming and bumpy at times often resulting in layers of difficulties with adjusting to changes, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and much more. An ideal client for me would be an individual who is ready to become unstuck and motivated to make impactful shifts in their life. Someone who is looking for support processing life stressors and is wanting to take steps toward their goals.
(503) 868-2986 View (503) 868-2986
Photo of Anthony Mark Darmiento, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anthony Mark Darmiento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I work with a diverse client base, ranging from children to adult, using evidence-based therapies in person or via telehealth. I specifically am focused on clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or familial/romantic relationship themes. I have spent time working internationally with the most vulnerable of populations and am excellent at drawing out those not familiar with the talk therapy model. I am happy to use a clients existing coping strategies such as spiritual beliefs and practices or help create new ones.
I work with a diverse client base, ranging from children to adult, using evidence-based therapies in person or via telehealth. I specifically am focused on clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or familial/romantic relationship themes. I have spent time working internationally with the most vulnerable of populations and am excellent at drawing out those not familiar with the talk therapy model. I am happy to use a clients existing coping strategies such as spiritual beliefs and practices or help create new ones.
(971) 272-8921 View (971) 272-8921
Photo of Brandalyn Sprinkle, LCSW, MSW, RPT™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandalyn Sprinkle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients across the lifespan and provide parent consultations when working with children/adolescents. I provide support for anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, family conflict, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, school issues, and trauma. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for any work we will do together. When you feel safe within the therapeutic relationship, that is when real healing or progress can occur. I work with individuals and family systems from a relational-cultural perspective and with a trauma-informed lens.
I work with clients across the lifespan and provide parent consultations when working with children/adolescents. I provide support for anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, family conflict, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, school issues, and trauma. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for any work we will do together. When you feel safe within the therapeutic relationship, that is when real healing or progress can occur. I work with individuals and family systems from a relational-cultural perspective and with a trauma-informed lens.
(503) 272-6213 View (503) 272-6213
Photo of Teresa Northy, MSW, CSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Northy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I welcome clients of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds. Diversity, equity, cultural humility, and empathy are foundational to my work. Seeking therapy can be scary and talking about the hard stuff requires vulnerability and bravery. In this nurturing space, I'm here to support you every step of the way on your journey to self-discovery, personal growth, and a brighter, more empowered future. I offer both virtual and in-person therapy sessions, providing a client-centered, strength-based and trauma informed approach.
I welcome clients of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds. Diversity, equity, cultural humility, and empathy are foundational to my work. Seeking therapy can be scary and talking about the hard stuff requires vulnerability and bravery. In this nurturing space, I'm here to support you every step of the way on your journey to self-discovery, personal growth, and a brighter, more empowered future. I offer both virtual and in-person therapy sessions, providing a client-centered, strength-based and trauma informed approach.
(503) 386-1216 View (503) 386-1216
Photo of Gemma Escale-Presague - Barcelona Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barcelona Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
(503) 308-7483 View (503) 308-7483
Photo of Ángela Vásquez, MS, LPC Intern
Ángela Vásquez
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
I work with adults and adolescents over 15 years old. The foundation of my practice is rooted in a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and liberation frame work. While I work with clients from all walks of life, I have a focus on serving the BIPOC, Latinx and Hispanic communities. I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma and live with anxiety. I provide therapy in English, Spanish (or Spanglish!) and my priority is for clients to feel like they can be their most authentic selves. Further, I foster an environment that is culturally responsive, non-jugmental, and sometimes sprinkled with a little humor.
I work with adults and adolescents over 15 years old. The foundation of my practice is rooted in a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and liberation frame work. While I work with clients from all walks of life, I have a focus on serving the BIPOC, Latinx and Hispanic communities. I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma and live with anxiety. I provide therapy in English, Spanish (or Spanglish!) and my priority is for clients to feel like they can be their most authentic selves. Further, I foster an environment that is culturally responsive, non-jugmental, and sometimes sprinkled with a little humor.
(971) 228-2657 View (971) 228-2657
Photo of Tabitha Ramos - Grow Your Own Way Therapy-EMDR provider, Tabitha Ramos, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grow Your Own Way Therapy-EMDR provider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Tabitha Ramos, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
Appointment availability includes evenings and weekends. Have you experienced trauma? Have you thought about trying EMDR to improve symptoms of trauma and PTSD? Does it feel like you can't stop thinking about the trauma and it interferes with your life? What if I told you that you have the potential to start feeling better sooner with the use of EMDR? EMDR is often recommended for PTSD. I provide EMDR online for traumatic events including recent traumas or childhood traumas. If you have experienced trauma such as accidents, abuse, sexual assault, health events, or any other trauma you could benefit from EMDR.
Appointment availability includes evenings and weekends. Have you experienced trauma? Have you thought about trying EMDR to improve symptoms of trauma and PTSD? Does it feel like you can't stop thinking about the trauma and it interferes with your life? What if I told you that you have the potential to start feeling better sooner with the use of EMDR? EMDR is often recommended for PTSD. I provide EMDR online for traumatic events including recent traumas or childhood traumas. If you have experienced trauma such as accidents, abuse, sexual assault, health events, or any other trauma you could benefit from EMDR.
(971) 328-4116 View (971) 328-4116
Photo of Matt Kidder, LPC, CADC I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Kidder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC I
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97006
Hello! My guess is that you're currently feeling a bit overwhelmed and possibly frustrated by the task of finding a therapist who both resonates with you and, is available. Being overwhelmed by the complexity of our lives, by our relationships, our work-lives and by the financial pressures we sometimes face seems to have become the "new normal" for many of us. Helping clients better manage these challenges while finding new solutions in an open-minded, comfortable and at times humorous environment is at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with youth, adults and couples seeking helpful new life-skills and big picture clarity.
Hello! My guess is that you're currently feeling a bit overwhelmed and possibly frustrated by the task of finding a therapist who both resonates with you and, is available. Being overwhelmed by the complexity of our lives, by our relationships, our work-lives and by the financial pressures we sometimes face seems to have become the "new normal" for many of us. Helping clients better manage these challenges while finding new solutions in an open-minded, comfortable and at times humorous environment is at the core of my practice. I enjoy working with youth, adults and couples seeking helpful new life-skills and big picture clarity.
(971) 290-4212 View (971) 290-4212

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lara Welford, MSW, CSWA, CADC-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Welford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSWA, CADC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97291
Specialty Interventions: Holistic Therapy, Experiential Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, EFT, SFT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Vagus Nerve Release, Mindfulness, Hakomi Therapy, Holotropic Breathwork, Nature Therapy.
Holistic and collaborative therapist with immediate openings. Now accepting OHP and other major insurance. Offering individual, family, and couples therapy for mental health, addiction concerns, identity-affirming care and entheogen integration support. Specialties: LGBTQIA2S, neurodiversity, gentle parenting, early childhood, transition-age youth, I/DD, anxious states, body-mind connection, creativity, non-conformist and alternative spirituality, clients with significant trauma history (complex PTSD, survivors of domestic violence and childhood abuse), bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis (addictions and mental health).
Specialty Interventions: Holistic Therapy, Experiential Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, EFT, SFT, DBT, Non-Violent Communication, Vagus Nerve Release, Mindfulness, Hakomi Therapy, Holotropic Breathwork, Nature Therapy.
Holistic and collaborative therapist with immediate openings. Now accepting OHP and other major insurance. Offering individual, family, and couples therapy for mental health, addiction concerns, identity-affirming care and entheogen integration support. Specialties: LGBTQIA2S, neurodiversity, gentle parenting, early childhood, transition-age youth, I/DD, anxious states, body-mind connection, creativity, non-conformist and alternative spirituality, clients with significant trauma history (complex PTSD, survivors of domestic violence and childhood abuse), bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis (addictions and mental health).
(541) 697-4482 View (541) 697-4482
Photo of Angela Ritacca-Lovenguth, LPC, ATR, MA, BA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Ritacca-Lovenguth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Forest Grove, OR 97116
I offer both verbal and art therapy to interested clients.
Hi there, my name is Angela. I’m a licensed counselor and art therapist. Do you have some things you need to talk over or get help with in a professional setting? Therapy can be a great place to get support and help as you work through challenges. I’m ready to hear whatever you may need help with. I specialize in working with teens, parents, and adults. I am currently offering both telehealth and in person appointments. I have previously worked in outpatient clinics, a school and a hospital. With urgent concerns about yourself or a loved one, please contact the Washington County Crisis Line at (503)291-9111. Thank you!
I offer both verbal and art therapy to interested clients.
Hi there, my name is Angela. I’m a licensed counselor and art therapist. Do you have some things you need to talk over or get help with in a professional setting? Therapy can be a great place to get support and help as you work through challenges. I’m ready to hear whatever you may need help with. I specialize in working with teens, parents, and adults. I am currently offering both telehealth and in person appointments. I have previously worked in outpatient clinics, a school and a hospital. With urgent concerns about yourself or a loved one, please contact the Washington County Crisis Line at (503)291-9111. Thank you!
(503) 746-9293 View (503) 746-9293
Photo of Hannah Oliver, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Oliver
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the daily tasks of life? Do you feel stuck in patterns of thinking or being? Are you wanting to heal from distressing experiences or traumas that impact on relationships, employment, health, and wellness? Know that you are not alone. We will work together utilizing a variety of techniques tailored to your unique needs and goals. These techniques might include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), art therapies, or somatic therapies.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the daily tasks of life? Do you feel stuck in patterns of thinking or being? Are you wanting to heal from distressing experiences or traumas that impact on relationships, employment, health, and wellness? Know that you are not alone. We will work together utilizing a variety of techniques tailored to your unique needs and goals. These techniques might include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), art therapies, or somatic therapies.
(971) 306-9256 View (971) 306-9256
Photo of Maria Papa, LPC, LAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Papa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAT
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Though Maria practices Art Therapy, art experience is not needed to participate in art therapy, as creativity is not limited to a specific age, gender, or skill level.
Maria is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist in Oregon. Though initially from the east coast, Maria has worked primarily in SE Alaska and the Willamette Valley with children of all ages and their families and support systems. Her focus both during and after graduate work has been with trauma and difficult life experiences, as well as ADHD, depression and anxiety, developmental delays, foster care and adoption, and behavioral struggles. She has expanded her focus to include intergenerational trauma and families who are part of the LGBTQIA community.
Though Maria practices Art Therapy, art experience is not needed to participate in art therapy, as creativity is not limited to a specific age, gender, or skill level.
Maria is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Art Therapist in Oregon. Though initially from the east coast, Maria has worked primarily in SE Alaska and the Willamette Valley with children of all ages and their families and support systems. Her focus both during and after graduate work has been with trauma and difficult life experiences, as well as ADHD, depression and anxiety, developmental delays, foster care and adoption, and behavioral struggles. She has expanded her focus to include intergenerational trauma and families who are part of the LGBTQIA community.
(503) 751-8510 View (503) 751-8510
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.