Art Therapy in Milwaukie, OR

Photo of Eileen Masover, MFA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Masover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Art and theatre have been life-long interests for me, and as a result I believe in the importance of tapping into our creativity for healing, and I bring that spirit of creativity into my therapy practice.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile page. My focus as a therapist is to help individuals improve the quality of their lives. Each one of us has our own life path, and I am here to help you explore your path and make positive changes. I envision our work as empowering and leading you to a healthier and more fulfilling life. We all experience times in our lives that feel difficult, perhaps even impossible. During those times, we may feel that we have no one we can talk to or who understands how we are feeling, and it is then we choose to seek out therapy.
Art and theatre have been life-long interests for me, and as a result I believe in the importance of tapping into our creativity for healing, and I bring that spirit of creativity into my therapy practice.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile page. My focus as a therapist is to help individuals improve the quality of their lives. Each one of us has our own life path, and I am here to help you explore your path and make positive changes. I envision our work as empowering and leading you to a healthier and more fulfilling life. We all experience times in our lives that feel difficult, perhaps even impossible. During those times, we may feel that we have no one we can talk to or who understands how we are feeling, and it is then we choose to seek out therapy.
(503) 496-7822 View (503) 496-7822
Photo of Chrissy Zimmerman, ATR, LPC, I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chrissy Zimmerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC, I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Not accepting new clients
I offer art therapy; the area of focus in which I earned my Master's degree.
I am looking forward to working with adults, couples, families, adolescents and/or children (in no particular order) that are interested in art therapy and counseling. I have had 5 years experience in a residential setting with adolescents who struggle with both addictions and mental health concerns. And for another 7 years I worked with children and families in need of significant services at a non-profit organization downtown. I am now primarily working with Clients (like you!) at my private practice in SE Portland and am truly enjoying the experience.
I offer art therapy; the area of focus in which I earned my Master's degree.
I am looking forward to working with adults, couples, families, adolescents and/or children (in no particular order) that are interested in art therapy and counseling. I have had 5 years experience in a residential setting with adolescents who struggle with both addictions and mental health concerns. And for another 7 years I worked with children and families in need of significant services at a non-profit organization downtown. I am now primarily working with Clients (like you!) at my private practice in SE Portland and am truly enjoying the experience.
(971) 333-0578 View (971) 333-0578
Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Haven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
(971) 253-7923 View (971) 253-7923
Photo of Nicole Craig - NW Creative Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
NW Creative Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Not accepting new clients
****PRACTICE FULL****Talking helps! I am a skilled and caring therapist, and work to help others navigate hardship, find ease, and nurture inner wisdom. My work is strongly founded in establishing a safe and secure therapeutic relationship. I provide non-judgmental support for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity concerns, PTSD/trauma, mood disorders, and chronic illnesses.
****PRACTICE FULL****Talking helps! I am a skilled and caring therapist, and work to help others navigate hardship, find ease, and nurture inner wisdom. My work is strongly founded in establishing a safe and secure therapeutic relationship. I provide non-judgmental support for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity concerns, PTSD/trauma, mood disorders, and chronic illnesses.
(503) 406-1589 View (503) 406-1589
Photo of Karen Harris, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukie, OR 97222
Accepting new clients both in person and via telehealth. Are you a deeply emotional person? Do you get sensory overload? Are you experiencing burnout, body pains or illness that doctors think is not medically explained? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work. Somatic helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming. Parts work is about understanding yourself in a way that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I love to help clients know and accept themselves through gaining deeper awareness of their internal systems.
Accepting new clients both in person and via telehealth. Are you a deeply emotional person? Do you get sensory overload? Are you experiencing burnout, body pains or illness that doctors think is not medically explained? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work. Somatic helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming. Parts work is about understanding yourself in a way that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I love to help clients know and accept themselves through gaining deeper awareness of their internal systems.
(971) 270-1549 View (971) 270-1549

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Turner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
With children and adolescents art therapy approaches help to establish freedom of expression and a sense of trust.
In my practice I often work with people who are experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression due to stress, relationship difficulties, important transitions in their lives, trauma, grief and loss. Individuals, couples and families who are experiencing overwhelming emotions can benefit from my supportive approach as they work on their concerns and develop goals. When verbal communication is not enough, I offer clients of all ages creative means to express themselves. My approach is collaborative with clients as they empower themselves within the therapeutic relationship and move towards making positive changes in their lives.
With children and adolescents art therapy approaches help to establish freedom of expression and a sense of trust.
In my practice I often work with people who are experiencing feelings of anxiety and depression due to stress, relationship difficulties, important transitions in their lives, trauma, grief and loss. Individuals, couples and families who are experiencing overwhelming emotions can benefit from my supportive approach as they work on their concerns and develop goals. When verbal communication is not enough, I offer clients of all ages creative means to express themselves. My approach is collaborative with clients as they empower themselves within the therapeutic relationship and move towards making positive changes in their lives.
(971) 421-9373 View (971) 421-9373
Photo of Brittany Oxford Professional Counseling Associate, ATR-P, MA, Art Therapist
Brittany Oxford Professional Counseling Associate
Art Therapist, ATR-P, MA
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Art can show a path.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or intimate partner violence? Maybe you are learning to navigate a new neurodivergence diagnosis or exploring your identity. On our journey through life, sometimes our path can seem to disappear in front of us. Our usual skills no longer hold and guide us through the experiences and systems we are navigating. In these trying times, a helping hand can make all the difference, and that is where art therapy comes in.
Art can show a path.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or intimate partner violence? Maybe you are learning to navigate a new neurodivergence diagnosis or exploring your identity. On our journey through life, sometimes our path can seem to disappear in front of us. Our usual skills no longer hold and guide us through the experiences and systems we are navigating. In these trying times, a helping hand can make all the difference, and that is where art therapy comes in.
(503) 994-1273 View (503) 994-1273
Photo of Renee Mahin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Mahin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
Using their personal interests, art, games, and play, I quickly develop a working relationship.
As a therapist, I know there are times when we feel lost or lack confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although we often have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family changes or crises, depression, anxiety, or prolonged grief/loss. In therapy, I will facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover new skills, strategies, and resources toward a more healthier approach to life challenges.
Using their personal interests, art, games, and play, I quickly develop a working relationship.
As a therapist, I know there are times when we feel lost or lack confidence to navigate through critical and life-changing circumstances. Although we often have many strengths and skills, we have difficulty accessing these during periods of family changes or crises, depression, anxiety, or prolonged grief/loss. In therapy, I will facilitate the process of helping you reconnect with your strengths and discover new skills, strategies, and resources toward a more healthier approach to life challenges.
(503) 376-8529 View (503) 376-8529
Photo of Sarah Weber, MA, LMHC, LPC, AT-P, Counselor
Sarah Weber
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, AT-P
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Both evidence-based practices and expressive therapies are used in my approach: Art Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention and Inference-Based CBT.
Starting therapy for the first time, or with someone new, can bring up feelings of vulnerability. There’s no right or wrong way to start, or reasons needed to begin. I believe all people can benefit from therapy. After all, being a human is hard enough. With me, the process of coming to therapy is made simple through co-creating safety and trust. I provide space where people can be human, share their truth, explore identities and practice new learning. I’m accepting clients ages 5+ for in-person and ages 13+ for telehealth or in-person. Clients under 13 unable to do in-person are encouraged to start parent sessions to foster change.
Both evidence-based practices and expressive therapies are used in my approach: Art Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention and Inference-Based CBT.
Starting therapy for the first time, or with someone new, can bring up feelings of vulnerability. There’s no right or wrong way to start, or reasons needed to begin. I believe all people can benefit from therapy. After all, being a human is hard enough. With me, the process of coming to therapy is made simple through co-creating safety and trust. I provide space where people can be human, share their truth, explore identities and practice new learning. I’m accepting clients ages 5+ for in-person and ages 13+ for telehealth or in-person. Clients under 13 unable to do in-person are encouraged to start parent sessions to foster change.
(425) 961-6718 View (425) 961-6718
Photo of Sally Foster Rudolph, LCAT, ART-BC, Art Therapist
Sally Foster Rudolph
Art Therapist, LCAT, ART-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I combine the use of art therapy with regular talk therapy, writing, meditation, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and somatic awareness.
Do you seek emotional healing, spiritual transformation, or support through your grief? Perhaps you feel stuck in sadness, anger or anxiety, and need a way to express yourself and integrate your experiences. Perhaps you have lost a loved one, or your health, or a job, or an important relationship. Maybe the past is not allowing you to move forward. As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, genuine, creative, and hands-on way to process confusion, loss and trauma. I offer individual therapy, as well as grief groups.
I combine the use of art therapy with regular talk therapy, writing, meditation, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and somatic awareness.
Do you seek emotional healing, spiritual transformation, or support through your grief? Perhaps you feel stuck in sadness, anger or anxiety, and need a way to express yourself and integrate your experiences. Perhaps you have lost a loved one, or your health, or a job, or an important relationship. Maybe the past is not allowing you to move forward. As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, genuine, creative, and hands-on way to process confusion, loss and trauma. I offer individual therapy, as well as grief groups.
(503) 832-5061 View (503) 832-5061
Photo of Glynis 'glee' Lumb, ATR-LAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glynis 'glee' Lumb
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of struggling to thrive in relationships with friends, family, and lovers? Are your emotions running your life? Interacting with others can be overwhelming when you have experienced trauma, grief, depression or anxiety. This can lead to coping through addictions or harmful behaviors. I believe we all have the capacity to change and that focusing on strengths can give clients a new outlook on life. Together, we can practice mindfulness, reflection, and positive coping skills. I collaborate with clients to build positive experiences in a caring therapeutic relationship through talking, playing (children), and art.
Are you tired of struggling to thrive in relationships with friends, family, and lovers? Are your emotions running your life? Interacting with others can be overwhelming when you have experienced trauma, grief, depression or anxiety. This can lead to coping through addictions or harmful behaviors. I believe we all have the capacity to change and that focusing on strengths can give clients a new outlook on life. Together, we can practice mindfulness, reflection, and positive coping skills. I collaborate with clients to build positive experiences in a caring therapeutic relationship through talking, playing (children), and art.
(458) 218-8822 View (458) 218-8822
Photo of Erica Ochsenreither, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Ochsenreither
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97222  (Online Only)
I am a mental health counselor specializing in art therapy.
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
I am a mental health counselor specializing in art therapy.
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
(503) 468-4589 View (503) 468-4589
Photo of Tiffany Kettermann, Counselor
Tiffany Kettermann
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Each team member brings unique experience and skills to these issues - from using somatic solutions such as EMDR and art therapy, to individuals trained in parenting, family or child therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
Each team member brings unique experience and skills to these issues - from using somatic solutions such as EMDR and art therapy, to individuals trained in parenting, family or child therapy, CBT, DBT, and more.
Are you struggling to understand a relationship that may be abusive, trying to heal from trauma, or need support with gender, identity, or LGBTQ2SIA+ issues? Health Allies specializes in healing from narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma. We also have many therapist who specialize and identify with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community. If you have struggled with any of the above, we can help you sort out your goals for healing and help you get to a better place.
(503) 831-9909 View (503) 831-9909
Photo of Mountain Crest Counseling - Mountain Crest Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountain Crest Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086
Mountain Crest Counseling Services is focused on providing high-quality service for those seeking growth and change. Our therapists are client-focused and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. Our therapists work with clients to gain greater insight, self-awareness, and self-compassion through a variety of different frameworks to include but not limited to DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Brainspotting and Strength Based approaches.
Mountain Crest Counseling Services is focused on providing high-quality service for those seeking growth and change. Our therapists are client-focused and work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals. Our therapists work with clients to gain greater insight, self-awareness, and self-compassion through a variety of different frameworks to include but not limited to DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, Brainspotting and Strength Based approaches.
(503) 877-1263 View (503) 877-1263
Photo of Jennifer M Besst, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer M Besst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I utilize a custom therapy approach drawing from the cognitive therapies & interpersonal neurobiology while integrating creative approaches as desired from the fields of art therapy, depth & archetypal psychology, personality typology, and existential therapy.
I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy, with a current focus in my practice on treating sexual pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), anxiety about sex, coping with low desire in self or partnership, building sexual & relationship security and confidence, and coping with stress brought on by relationship difficulties including: finding a dating partner, moving in together, managing conflict, balancing household responsibilities fairly, break-ups/divorce, and exploring an open-relationship. Please navigate to my website if you'd like to learn more about my therapeutic style and background.
I utilize a custom therapy approach drawing from the cognitive therapies & interpersonal neurobiology while integrating creative approaches as desired from the fields of art therapy, depth & archetypal psychology, personality typology, and existential therapy.
I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy, with a current focus in my practice on treating sexual pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), anxiety about sex, coping with low desire in self or partnership, building sexual & relationship security and confidence, and coping with stress brought on by relationship difficulties including: finding a dating partner, moving in together, managing conflict, balancing household responsibilities fairly, break-ups/divorce, and exploring an open-relationship. Please navigate to my website if you'd like to learn more about my therapeutic style and background.
(503) 444-8808 View (503) 444-8808
Photo of Sarah Harbin, LPC, LMHC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Harbin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045  (Online Only)
My work is person-centered, where I like to bring in an eclectic mix of Art Therapy, CBT, Narrative therapy, IFS, and EMDR to suit my client’s needs.
Hi I am Sarah, it is nice to meet you. I try to create a therapeutic space where the individuals I see can slow down, take time for non-judgmental reflection, process emotions and find the things that help them to live with authenticity and intention. I work to support and collaborate with adolescents and adults of all backgrounds to find growth, seek change and begin the healing process. I endeavor to make therapy a creative and safe space where we can explore how each person is able to find what works for them. In the first few sessions I like to get a sense of who you are, what you are seeking and to make goals for our work.
My work is person-centered, where I like to bring in an eclectic mix of Art Therapy, CBT, Narrative therapy, IFS, and EMDR to suit my client’s needs.
Hi I am Sarah, it is nice to meet you. I try to create a therapeutic space where the individuals I see can slow down, take time for non-judgmental reflection, process emotions and find the things that help them to live with authenticity and intention. I work to support and collaborate with adolescents and adults of all backgrounds to find growth, seek change and begin the healing process. I endeavor to make therapy a creative and safe space where we can explore how each person is able to find what works for them. In the first few sessions I like to get a sense of who you are, what you are seeking and to make goals for our work.
(503) 843-8096 View (503) 843-8096
Photo of Suzan Anson, PhD, ATR, Psychologist
Suzan Anson
Psychologist, PhD, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I find that my training in psychoanalysis, art therapy, and sports psychology helps clients understand unconscious dynamics and also provides a goal-directed, positive, creative approach.
My focus is to help empower you by helping you enhance your capacities and create meaningful change in your life. Clients want symptom relief, but also want to focus on problems preventing them from achieving their goals. You may want to resolve long-standing relationship or family issues and seek clarity and insight so as not to repeat negative patterns in the future. Many of my clients are suffering from occupational burnout, stress, and work/life imbalance. I work with clients in transition, due to unexpected life changes who are seeking relief and renewal.
I find that my training in psychoanalysis, art therapy, and sports psychology helps clients understand unconscious dynamics and also provides a goal-directed, positive, creative approach.
My focus is to help empower you by helping you enhance your capacities and create meaningful change in your life. Clients want symptom relief, but also want to focus on problems preventing them from achieving their goals. You may want to resolve long-standing relationship or family issues and seek clarity and insight so as not to repeat negative patterns in the future. Many of my clients are suffering from occupational burnout, stress, and work/life imbalance. I work with clients in transition, due to unexpected life changes who are seeking relief and renewal.
(503) 386-0217 View (503) 386-0217
Photo of Liv Siulagi, QMHA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liv Siulagi
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
I am a BIPoC therapist (she/her) with training in art therapy, a solid background in liberation psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem? Life can be hard. On top of that, many of us have internalized messages, and learned relationship skills that make our lives even harder. If you would like change then we should talk.
I am a BIPoC therapist (she/her) with training in art therapy, a solid background in liberation psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem? Life can be hard. On top of that, many of us have internalized messages, and learned relationship skills that make our lives even harder. If you would like change then we should talk.
(971) 293-2823 View (971) 293-2823
Photo of Jill Walsh, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Jill Walsh
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (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 Saya Doucet, LPC, ATR, LAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Saya Doucet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, LAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
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
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.