Therapists in West Chester, PA
![Photo of Lara Krawchuk, MSW, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2fe54d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lara Krawchuk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
Are you a teen, adult or young adult feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, hurt, or alone? Have you experienced a loss or life transition that is difficult to make sense of? Are you looking to try IFS? I understand the suffering and confusion caused by painful life experiences. No matter how big the hurt; I help clients see that healing and growth are always attainable! My team and I are passionate healers! We work collaboratively with you to create an effective healing experience tailored to your unique needs. Clients say we are compassionate, creative, courageous, open-minded and deeply connected. Help is near!
Are you a teen, adult or young adult feeling sad, stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, hurt, or alone? Have you experienced a loss or life transition that is difficult to make sense of? Are you looking to try IFS? I understand the suffering and confusion caused by painful life experiences. No matter how big the hurt; I help clients see that healing and growth are always attainable! My team and I are passionate healers! We work collaboratively with you to create an effective healing experience tailored to your unique needs. Clients say we are compassionate, creative, courageous, open-minded and deeply connected. Help is near!
![Photo of Emilee Duckworth, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a39ef4b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emilee Duckworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
Are you feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have you experienced change, loss, or trauma that is difficult to make sense of? I understand the pain and confusion caused by significant grief, loss, illness, stress, trauma, and transition. I believe that no matter how big the hurt; healing and growth are possible. I use a wide range of techniques, including talk therapy, guided imagery, and EMDR, tailored to your needs to facilitate your growth.
Are you feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have you experienced change, loss, or trauma that is difficult to make sense of? I understand the pain and confusion caused by significant grief, loss, illness, stress, trauma, and transition. I believe that no matter how big the hurt; healing and growth are possible. I use a wide range of techniques, including talk therapy, guided imagery, and EMDR, tailored to your needs to facilitate your growth.
![Photo of Amanda Malcolm, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcb61ac3-68a3-4f95-94d3-2921d97a03e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Keli Laverty, BC-DMT, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4cd6561-3920-44f5-bb10-4aa37347825a/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking for a therapy experience that goes beyond talking and helps you connect to your whole self, Dance/movement therapy could be for you!! If you have tried traditional "talk" therapy and it has not produced the changes you are wanting, a Dance/Movement therapy session will help you make shifts in session (literally!) that you can apply in your everyday life. If you or your child or teen does not like to "talk" about your feelings, DMT is a solution! At my core, I see movement as our path to wellness. Movement connects us to our physiology and psychology to really affect change- we cannot just think our way to change, we need to move it! I use the body, which is never in the past or future, as a tool to help clients become aware of your own physical and emotional states in the present. I strive to connect my clients to your bodies and from there we practice techniques to empower you to embrace living in your bodies and connecting to your whole self.
If you are looking for a therapy experience that goes beyond talking and helps you connect to your whole self, Dance/movement therapy could be for you!! If you have tried traditional "talk" therapy and it has not produced the changes you are wanting, a Dance/Movement therapy session will help you make shifts in session (literally!) that you can apply in your everyday life. If you or your child or teen does not like to "talk" about your feelings, DMT is a solution! At my core, I see movement as our path to wellness. Movement connects us to our physiology and psychology to really affect change- we cannot just think our way to change, we need to move it! I use the body, which is never in the past or future, as a tool to help clients become aware of your own physical and emotional states in the present. I strive to connect my clients to your bodies and from there we practice techniques to empower you to embrace living in your bodies and connecting to your whole self.
![Photo of Cyndie Westrich, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b2d377-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cyndie Westrich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCATP
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
As a woman, life pulls you in many different directions. Pleasing everyone leaves you feeling overwhelmed especially after loss or sudden change. Worry, fear, guilt, & obligation spiral. Life hits a tipping point: You need time to yourself, but you feel guilty & yet continuing to avoid how you feel, only makes things worse. Now you're at a turning point. I specialize in helping women, who feel anxious & depressed from major life challenges, transitions, trauma & losses, move forward with renewed confidence & hope. With 30 years of experience, I collaborate with you to decrease anxiety & help you reach your personal goals.
As a woman, life pulls you in many different directions. Pleasing everyone leaves you feeling overwhelmed especially after loss or sudden change. Worry, fear, guilt, & obligation spiral. Life hits a tipping point: You need time to yourself, but you feel guilty & yet continuing to avoid how you feel, only makes things worse. Now you're at a turning point. I specialize in helping women, who feel anxious & depressed from major life challenges, transitions, trauma & losses, move forward with renewed confidence & hope. With 30 years of experience, I collaborate with you to decrease anxiety & help you reach your personal goals.
![Photo of Omy Golden - Dark Moon Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0074fc1-abe8-4a54-89dd-85f77515b6b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dark Moon Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
Often when we are ready to seek counseling we can find ourselves in a dark place, struggling to see our way forward, but knowing that something needs to change. If that's where you find yourself right now, I want you to know you are not alone. My name is Omy Golden. I help adults create healing in their lives, which frequently means addressing past traumas and relationship hurts that stand in the way of us showing up as our authentic selves. Through curiosity, gentleness, and acceptance, I can help you discover your own unique path towards overcoming life’s challenges.
Often when we are ready to seek counseling we can find ourselves in a dark place, struggling to see our way forward, but knowing that something needs to change. If that's where you find yourself right now, I want you to know you are not alone. My name is Omy Golden. I help adults create healing in their lives, which frequently means addressing past traumas and relationship hurts that stand in the way of us showing up as our authentic selves. Through curiosity, gentleness, and acceptance, I can help you discover your own unique path towards overcoming life’s challenges.
![Photo of Scott Giacomucci - Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, DSW, LCSW, BCD, FAAETS, TEP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a44a243-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy
DSW, LCSW, BCD, FAAETS, TEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19380
While other programs claim to be 'trauma-informed', our practice revolves entirely around trauma therapy. This is what we do best. The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is named after the legendary figure of the phoenix that dies and is reborn from its own ashes – it is a symbol of transformation, resilience, and growth after trauma. While we cannot change the past, we can change how past experiences live within us! Sessions range from $200-125 with our therapists. Low-cost therapy sessions with our graduate interns range from $85-30.
While other programs claim to be 'trauma-informed', our practice revolves entirely around trauma therapy. This is what we do best. The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is named after the legendary figure of the phoenix that dies and is reborn from its own ashes – it is a symbol of transformation, resilience, and growth after trauma. While we cannot change the past, we can change how past experiences live within us! Sessions range from $200-125 with our therapists. Low-cost therapy sessions with our graduate interns range from $85-30.
![Photo of Meghan Weber, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/914fc9dd-bee7-4ac1-8601-6a35af4f41ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Weber
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of ups and downs and sometimes along the way, we get stuck - stuck in negative thought patterns, unhealthy relationships, or maladaptive behaviors. At times it's hard to see a way forward. I wholeheartedly believe you possess the key to unlocking your inner potential. With a client-centered blend of therapeutic art directives and warm, genuine discussion together we can explore what ails you and put you on a path toward self-discovery and self-healing.
Life is full of ups and downs and sometimes along the way, we get stuck - stuck in negative thought patterns, unhealthy relationships, or maladaptive behaviors. At times it's hard to see a way forward. I wholeheartedly believe you possess the key to unlocking your inner potential. With a client-centered blend of therapeutic art directives and warm, genuine discussion together we can explore what ails you and put you on a path toward self-discovery and self-healing.
![Photo of Amy Melissa Stone, MSS, LSW, CET III, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4937eb4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Melissa Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW, CET III
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19380
Not accepting new clients
Asking for help demonstrates bravery and is an action step toward a new experience in life. I have been helping individuals recover from addiction for over twenty years. Now, I assist clients to grow and heal from abuse, neglect, traumas and move through rough patches in life. I recognize the importance of this work, but believe curiosity and laughter can be part of the therapeutic process as well as tears, grief and anger. Transformation and change are often possible and I am honored to witness this daily.
Asking for help demonstrates bravery and is an action step toward a new experience in life. I have been helping individuals recover from addiction for over twenty years. Now, I assist clients to grow and heal from abuse, neglect, traumas and move through rough patches in life. I recognize the importance of this work, but believe curiosity and laughter can be part of the therapeutic process as well as tears, grief and anger. Transformation and change are often possible and I am honored to witness this daily.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Maegon Crader, MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62bb2c58-5e8c-4915-abe8-f00c48071962/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maegon Crader
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exton, PA 19341
Are you or your child going through a challenging time due to a difficult experience? It's not uncommon to feel stuck in intense emotions like anxiety, fear, anger, or sadness. Seeking a bit of extra support can make a significant difference in helping you or your child not just cope but thrive. We all desire a way forward, a path to navigate through these often overwhelming feelings. Whether it's a recent traumatic event or past issues that persistently resurface, various therapeutic approaches are available to guide you on this journey.
Are you or your child going through a challenging time due to a difficult experience? It's not uncommon to feel stuck in intense emotions like anxiety, fear, anger, or sadness. Seeking a bit of extra support can make a significant difference in helping you or your child not just cope but thrive. We all desire a way forward, a path to navigate through these often overwhelming feelings. Whether it's a recent traumatic event or past issues that persistently resurface, various therapeutic approaches are available to guide you on this journey.
![Photo of Stephanie Brooks Pirozzi - Wellbrook Wellness , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549c8dc9-33da-46aa-82b1-41cf66439331/2/320x400.png)
Do you frequently experience feelings of being overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsettled? Do you find yourself avoiding difficult situations, only to end up feeling even more distressed later on? Many people grapple with the sense that life could be more satisfying, joyful, and peaceful. If you’ve ever wondered if there’s a way to achieve a greater sense of fulfillment and contentment, you’re not alone. And now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers, and various aspects of their lives.
Do you frequently experience feelings of being overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsettled? Do you find yourself avoiding difficult situations, only to end up feeling even more distressed later on? Many people grapple with the sense that life could be more satisfying, joyful, and peaceful. If you’ve ever wondered if there’s a way to achieve a greater sense of fulfillment and contentment, you’re not alone. And now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers, and various aspects of their lives.
![Photo of Gabrielle Nerl, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b1779b6-6d28-4548-8bfa-2afd93cb6efe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabrielle Nerl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Though it can seem impossible at times, we are all capable of change with a little help. Therapy provides us with a safe space to vent and heal recent wounds, and encourages personal growth through self awareness and understanding others. I work primarily with adults and teens over 14 years of age who are struggling with issues such as mood disorders, eating disorders, interpersonal relationship struggles, performance anxiety, and adjustment to recent life changes.
Though it can seem impossible at times, we are all capable of change with a little help. Therapy provides us with a safe space to vent and heal recent wounds, and encourages personal growth through self awareness and understanding others. I work primarily with adults and teens over 14 years of age who are struggling with issues such as mood disorders, eating disorders, interpersonal relationship struggles, performance anxiety, and adjustment to recent life changes.
![Photo of Stephanie Pirozzi - Stephanie Brooks Pirozzi | Wellbrook Wellness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06a05f85-054c-42f5-9dbd-1e678dd0d8c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Brooks Pirozzi | Wellbrook Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
“You’ve always had the power, you just had to learn it for yourself.” These famous words echo a universal truth; no matter what your life experience, personal power lies at the heart of who you are. As a holistic, strength-based therapist, I understand how all aspects of self - mind, body and essence - work together to access inner wisdom and inspire the best version of you. I work with adolescents, adults and families in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and relational problems to help identify and dismantle disruptive thought and behavior patterns that get the way of living your best life.
“You’ve always had the power, you just had to learn it for yourself.” These famous words echo a universal truth; no matter what your life experience, personal power lies at the heart of who you are. As a holistic, strength-based therapist, I understand how all aspects of self - mind, body and essence - work together to access inner wisdom and inspire the best version of you. I work with adolescents, adults and families in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and relational problems to help identify and dismantle disruptive thought and behavior patterns that get the way of living your best life.
![Photo of Kini Bryant, LCSW, RSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0e869bc-3966-4586-bfbd-26f60296d85f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandplay Therapy is an effective modality to for children, adolescents and adults. Often, finding the words to express ones' feelings is a challenge. Together the client and the therapist review the creative process to help understand the feelings and experience. The picture created in the sand tray is a way for expressing ones’ internal feelings. Trauma whether it happens to a child, adolescent or an adult can contribute to feeling disorganized and insecure. For a child, adolescent or an adult feeling disorganized is scary. Sandplay Therapy will enhance self- regulation evident in one' behavior.
Sandplay Therapy is an effective modality to for children, adolescents and adults. Often, finding the words to express ones' feelings is a challenge. Together the client and the therapist review the creative process to help understand the feelings and experience. The picture created in the sand tray is a way for expressing ones’ internal feelings. Trauma whether it happens to a child, adolescent or an adult can contribute to feeling disorganized and insecure. For a child, adolescent or an adult feeling disorganized is scary. Sandplay Therapy will enhance self- regulation evident in one' behavior.
![Photo of Rebecca Weidler, MS, LBS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68650812-9066-40e9-a458-54fc72591020/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Weidler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LBS, LPC
Verified Verified
Paoli, PA 19301 (Online Only)
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
No matter what life brings you, treatment can bring you "home." All walks of life and all experiences are unique, so your treatment will be tailored to fit for you. Direction, support, guidance and healing available now.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Dottie Kelly, RN, MA, LPC, CGCS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52053923-da3a-47f1-a7e9-0f044725b761/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dottie Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MA, LPC, CGCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckingham, PA 18912
Through a variety of treatment approaches; IFS, EMDR, ART, Brain Spotting, sandtray therapy, expressive arts and psychotherapy, we will work together to strengthen your mind, body and spirit so that you can continue on your path towards a more fulfilling life.
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in individual and group settings. My specialties include trauma issues, PTSD, anxiety, grief and loss. Trauma is not specific to violence but results from experiences such as death of family members/friends, chronic and acute illness, animal attacks, natural disasters, dealing with suicide, separation from parents, divorce, domestic violence and war. I work with active duty military, veterans and first responders and their families, engaging EMDR, Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) and Brain Spotting.
Through a variety of treatment approaches; IFS, EMDR, ART, Brain Spotting, sandtray therapy, expressive arts and psychotherapy, we will work together to strengthen your mind, body and spirit so that you can continue on your path towards a more fulfilling life.
I am a licensed professional counselor with 20+ years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in individual and group settings. My specialties include trauma issues, PTSD, anxiety, grief and loss. Trauma is not specific to violence but results from experiences such as death of family members/friends, chronic and acute illness, animal attacks, natural disasters, dealing with suicide, separation from parents, divorce, domestic violence and war. I work with active duty military, veterans and first responders and their families, engaging EMDR, Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) and Brain Spotting.
![Photo of Eshay Olene - Sankofa Healing Studio - Eshay Olene, MS, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cd88c62-02ef-4d0f-b94e-a806f6a106d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sankofa Healing Studio - Eshay Olene
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19122
My unique approach incorporates the use of expressive arts, assisting individuals in tapping into their creativity as a medium of exploring & expressing their emotions.
As a dedicated counselor, I envision my ideal clients as individuals who are not merely in search of healing but also aspire to personal growth. These could be individuals or families, particularly those of color, who have weathered various forms of trauma or injustices. The issues they grapple with might span a spectrum from anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem to the aftermath of enduring abuse or addiction. These individuals seek a sanctuary, a place where they can freely express their emotions, analyze their experiences, and most importantly, lay the groundwork for a journey towards holistic healing.
My unique approach incorporates the use of expressive arts, assisting individuals in tapping into their creativity as a medium of exploring & expressing their emotions.
As a dedicated counselor, I envision my ideal clients as individuals who are not merely in search of healing but also aspire to personal growth. These could be individuals or families, particularly those of color, who have weathered various forms of trauma or injustices. The issues they grapple with might span a spectrum from anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem to the aftermath of enduring abuse or addiction. These individuals seek a sanctuary, a place where they can freely express their emotions, analyze their experiences, and most importantly, lay the groundwork for a journey towards holistic healing.
![Photo of Deborah Coulston - The Family Wellness Center, MA, MATS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6097e0eb-0dca-4c89-98c4-9cf18cda07d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109 (Online Only)
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
![Photo of Carrie Powell, MA, EAT, Reiki, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503ca34a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Woven with the use of expressive arts is an integration of nature based and Reiki techniques to support you in your healing journey.
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
Woven with the use of expressive arts is an integration of nature based and Reiki techniques to support you in your healing journey.
We have the capacity to express ourselves beyond just talking about our experiences and feelings. It is in our innate nature to access other ways of processing that utilizes art as a language. Cambridge Dictionary defines "art"- a noun synonymous with expression, as: "the making of objects, images, music, etc. that are beautiful or that express feelings". Still Emerging Expressive Arts Therapy offers an unconventional approach to therapeutic work, utilizing various forms of expression, including: visual art, movement, writing and sound. No skill is necessary, just a deep longing and desire to express yourself free of judgment.
![Photo of Emily M. Easterling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9d1346-c97a-4137-8cae-6308f2ebab9e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily M. Easterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901 (Online Only)
Establishing a trusting relationship and environment that is warm and supportive where clients feel safe and motivated to engage in their therapeutic journey is my essential goal. My approach to therapy is formulated by the uniqueness of the person along with the uniqueness of the environmental and familial systems within which they have developed. Over the past 23 years I have worked with individuals, groups, families, and couples and have treated several mental and emotional health issues. Some of these issues include: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Relationship/Family, and Attachment.
Establishing a trusting relationship and environment that is warm and supportive where clients feel safe and motivated to engage in their therapeutic journey is my essential goal. My approach to therapy is formulated by the uniqueness of the person along with the uniqueness of the environmental and familial systems within which they have developed. Over the past 23 years I have worked with individuals, groups, families, and couples and have treated several mental and emotional health issues. Some of these issues include: Depression, Anxiety, Grief, ADHD, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Relationship/Family, and Attachment.
See more therapy options for West Chester
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.