Expressive Arts Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
Lauren Lazar Stern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
Sydney Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15233 (Online Only)
I use IFS/parts work, Gestalt techniques, yoga, expressive arts, and somatic therapy.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
I use IFS/parts work, Gestalt techniques, yoga, expressive arts, and somatic therapy.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
Jamie Sloan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.
I believe in using a holistic, strength based approach that builds on your current assets to help you achieve your goals. I work collaboratively with you to focus on individual whole health, which includes identifying your aspirations and emphasizing empowerment and self care. I have experience creating a safe and warm environment in which to incorporate evidenced based interventions and coping strategies to help improve focus and manage anxiety, grief, and depression. I also utilize expressive arts to help identify unique, creative approaches to help you improve the quality of your life.
Outside the Lines Creative & Relational Therapies
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MMT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Due to my own lived experiences, I strive to create an affirming space for those who are fat, queer, polyamorous/non-monogamous, in/visibly disabled, gender-expansive, and/or expectant parents. Together, we will 1) gain a deeper understanding of your relationships to Self and others, 2) deconstruct systems & expand your knowledge of your own privileged & marginalized positions, and 3) learn about your attachment style & family systems position. Additionally, creatives who wish to expand our process beyond discussion and into music, poetry, and other expressive arts will find that those mediums can be interwoven into our work.
Due to my own lived experiences, I strive to create an affirming space for those who are fat, queer, polyamorous/non-monogamous, in/visibly disabled, gender-expansive, and/or expectant parents. Together, we will 1) gain a deeper understanding of your relationships to Self and others, 2) deconstruct systems & expand your knowledge of your own privileged & marginalized positions, and 3) learn about your attachment style & family systems position. Additionally, creatives who wish to expand our process beyond discussion and into music, poetry, and other expressive arts will find that those mediums can be interwoven into our work.
Sandhiya Baladhandapani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Depending on developmental age and assessment of needs, I also provide play and expressive arts therapies and parenting support for parents/caregivers in parent consultations as needed.
No one is born fully-formed: it is through self-experience in the world that we become what we are. - Paulo Freire. I view the person, treatment and wellness as a whole, an interconnected system of mind and body only in relation to their environments from the past, present and possibilities of future. I specialize in treating symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety, social anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, challenges with learning disabilities and sensory processing issues, as well as family, relationship, school, transitional, acculturative stressors. I provide individual psychotherapy for ages 4-50.
Depending on developmental age and assessment of needs, I also provide play and expressive arts therapies and parenting support for parents/caregivers in parent consultations as needed.
No one is born fully-formed: it is through self-experience in the world that we become what we are. - Paulo Freire. I view the person, treatment and wellness as a whole, an interconnected system of mind and body only in relation to their environments from the past, present and possibilities of future. I specialize in treating symptoms associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety, social anxiety, self-esteem, grief and loss, challenges with learning disabilities and sensory processing issues, as well as family, relationship, school, transitional, acculturative stressors. I provide individual psychotherapy for ages 4-50.
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment. I regularly incorporate mindfulness, self-compassion, expressive arts, philosophy and pop culture, and self-advocacy skills into my approach.
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment. I regularly incorporate mindfulness, self-compassion, expressive arts, philosophy and pop culture, and self-advocacy skills into my approach.
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
HeART Felt Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Being an adult is hard, especially for women. Having to make difficult decisions about your career, relationships, future, process things about your past, or set boundaries with those around you -- can feel seemingly impossible. Balancing a career, household, and/or a relationship can be taxing, anxiety provoking, draining, and leave you feeling completely depleted. But these aren't impossible things to tackle, and there is hope for a better, more peaceful, balanced you. You are only one step away from beginning a journey to better take care of yourself. And it starts here.
Being an adult is hard, especially for women. Having to make difficult decisions about your career, relationships, future, process things about your past, or set boundaries with those around you -- can feel seemingly impossible. Balancing a career, household, and/or a relationship can be taxing, anxiety provoking, draining, and leave you feeling completely depleted. But these aren't impossible things to tackle, and there is hope for a better, more peaceful, balanced you. You are only one step away from beginning a journey to better take care of yourself. And it starts here.
Sarah Paolino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Accepting New Clients. I believe that therapy is a co-created process meant to bring awareness within ourselves and our relationships to create meaningful change. I believe that everyone has the natural capacity to have a fulfilling and desired quality of life. Healing comes into play to meet life’s obstacles so that growth and integration can happen. I look at relative trauma as well as the impact of larger systems. I use mind-body awareness practices to help bring alignment within authentic self. I work to bring non-judgment and trust as transformation occurs.
Accepting New Clients. I believe that therapy is a co-created process meant to bring awareness within ourselves and our relationships to create meaningful change. I believe that everyone has the natural capacity to have a fulfilling and desired quality of life. Healing comes into play to meet life’s obstacles so that growth and integration can happen. I look at relative trauma as well as the impact of larger systems. I use mind-body awareness practices to help bring alignment within authentic self. I work to bring non-judgment and trust as transformation occurs.
Dani Grace
Associate Professional Counselor, MA, LAPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15208
I utilize eclectic approaches to customize a healing experience for you based on your strengths and growing edges. My practice is founded in a holistic mind-body-soul philosophy of healing and I believe all these components as well as our connections with others, our environment, self, and our Divine are all inextricable linked – in order for deep and lasting healing, all components must be considered and approached with love and grace. I am trauma-competent and I use approaches like EMDR, mindfulness, CBT / DBT skills, somatics, creative expression, movement, and music, to help you find a container of healing that works for you.
I utilize eclectic approaches to customize a healing experience for you based on your strengths and growing edges. My practice is founded in a holistic mind-body-soul philosophy of healing and I believe all these components as well as our connections with others, our environment, self, and our Divine are all inextricable linked – in order for deep and lasting healing, all components must be considered and approached with love and grace. I am trauma-competent and I use approaches like EMDR, mindfulness, CBT / DBT skills, somatics, creative expression, movement, and music, to help you find a container of healing that works for you.
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Seeking counseling is a courageous step in your healing journey. As a therapist, I work to create a safe and affirming space for you to work towards your personal goals and growth. I am trained in art therapy and utilize art to help individuals authentically process and connect to themselves. I am here to work collaboratively with you, providing a non-judgmental space that is both safe and affirming. I believe in the transformative power of art and its ability to help individuals process emotions, connect with their true selves, and foster healing.
Seeking counseling is a courageous step in your healing journey. As a therapist, I work to create a safe and affirming space for you to work towards your personal goals and growth. I am trained in art therapy and utilize art to help individuals authentically process and connect to themselves. I am here to work collaboratively with you, providing a non-judgmental space that is both safe and affirming. I believe in the transformative power of art and its ability to help individuals process emotions, connect with their true selves, and foster healing.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
My ideal client wants something better, has no idea what "better" is or looks like, and has no idea where to start. They are still determining if they are ready to start or commit to that change. What they need is a person and a space to figure it out. Deep down, they know where they are right now can be better, whether in relationships, emotions, daily habits, major life goals, or anything in-between. But, most importantly, they want a space where they can process and grow from that place and build a sustainable life.
My ideal client wants something better, has no idea what "better" is or looks like, and has no idea where to start. They are still determining if they are ready to start or commit to that change. What they need is a person and a space to figure it out. Deep down, they know where they are right now can be better, whether in relationships, emotions, daily habits, major life goals, or anything in-between. But, most importantly, they want a space where they can process and grow from that place and build a sustainable life.
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
Emily Spirk
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MSCP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
If you work with me, you can expect me to show up wholeheartedly and authentically and hold the space for you to do so as well. I aspire to cultivate a trusting relationship with you so that you feel safe to show up as your true and imperfect self. Working in partnership, we will determine your individual goals for therapy and utilize a holistic approach to problem-solve together. Practice makes progress! - Click on my website to learn more.
If you work with me, you can expect me to show up wholeheartedly and authentically and hold the space for you to do so as well. I aspire to cultivate a trusting relationship with you so that you feel safe to show up as your true and imperfect self. Working in partnership, we will determine your individual goals for therapy and utilize a holistic approach to problem-solve together. Practice makes progress! - Click on my website to learn more.
Angela Angiolieri
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (Online Only)
You may be at a crossroads, feeling unsure of what’s next. Perhaps you’re navigating a career shift, experiencing the impact of an empty nest, or finally ready to focus on your own needs after years of caring for others. You’re seeking clarity and purpose, eager to reconnect with your authentic self. You want to break free from limiting patterns, set boundaries that truly honor who you are, and find fulfillment in this new chapter of life. You’re ready to step forward with confidence and create a future that genuinely reflects your values, goals, and sense of self. Let’s take that journey together.
You may be at a crossroads, feeling unsure of what’s next. Perhaps you’re navigating a career shift, experiencing the impact of an empty nest, or finally ready to focus on your own needs after years of caring for others. You’re seeking clarity and purpose, eager to reconnect with your authentic self. You want to break free from limiting patterns, set boundaries that truly honor who you are, and find fulfillment in this new chapter of life. You’re ready to step forward with confidence and create a future that genuinely reflects your values, goals, and sense of self. Let’s take that journey together.
Courtney Pfohlman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15210 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes working with adults and couples. I am an EMDR trained clinician and have a history of working with clients in treatment facilities for substance use disorders, co-occuring disorders including trauma and anxiety, and completing forensic assessments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes working with adults and couples. I am an EMDR trained clinician and have a history of working with clients in treatment facilities for substance use disorders, co-occuring disorders including trauma and anxiety, and completing forensic assessments.
I am pro-you in whatever way you show up–your gender identity, sexual orientation, justice system involvement, relationship style, body size and physical ability, race and ethnicity, and unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world are welcome and celebrated here! I am affirming of neurodiversity and dissociative identities, and I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, dissociative systems, and people who have experienced trauma.
I am pro-you in whatever way you show up–your gender identity, sexual orientation, justice system involvement, relationship style, body size and physical ability, race and ethnicity, and unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world are welcome and celebrated here! I am affirming of neurodiversity and dissociative identities, and I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, dissociative systems, and people who have experienced trauma.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
Welcome to my practice! Here you will find a unique approach and perspective to healing trauma, finding direction, and experiencing a shift in your life. This approach and perspective embodies love, light, creativity, and perfection as YOU! My approach and work is born from years of deep emotional trauma and a process of intricate healing involving body, soul and spirit.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
Nearby Expressive Arts Therapists Searches for Pittsburgh
- Allison Park
- Bethel Park
- Coraopolis
- Imperial
- McMurray
- Monroeville
- Mount Lebanon
- Plum
- Sewickley
- Squirrel Hill
- Upper Saint Clair
- Wexford
Expressive Arts Therapists
What happens in expressive arts therapy?
In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.
How long does expressive arts therapy take?
An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.
How does expressive arts therapy help children?
Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.
What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?
Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.