Art Therapy in Henrico, VA

Photo of LeeLee Sarlo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LeeLee Sarlo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
In our work together, we will use treatment modalities that include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Expressive Art, Play Therapy Techniques, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy.
As a therapist, it is my priority to provide a supportive and caring environment where you can have a non-judgmental space, learn new ways of coping, and ultimately create the changes you want to see in your life. I enjoy working with all ages, but have a passion for working with teenagers and young adults. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, and self-esteem.
In our work together, we will use treatment modalities that include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Expressive Art, Play Therapy Techniques, and Dialectal Behavioral Therapy.
As a therapist, it is my priority to provide a supportive and caring environment where you can have a non-judgmental space, learn new ways of coping, and ultimately create the changes you want to see in your life. I enjoy working with all ages, but have a passion for working with teenagers and young adults. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, and self-esteem.
(804) 889-3046 View (804) 889-3046
Photo of Abigail Starns, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abigail Starns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23075
Interventions are tailored to the individual based on developmental levels, often involving art & play-based activities!.
Are you interested in examining your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to make positive change? I am committed to providing a safe & affirming space to harness strengths, explore current patterns, & see where there could be space for growth. I have worked with individuals on the Autism Spectrum & those with depressive, anxious, & trauma-related symptoms. I acknowledge that treatment of these challenges is not "one size fits all", & pride myself on my experience working with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals in polyamorous relationships, & those with different health conditions & ability statuses.
Interventions are tailored to the individual based on developmental levels, often involving art & play-based activities!.
Are you interested in examining your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to make positive change? I am committed to providing a safe & affirming space to harness strengths, explore current patterns, & see where there could be space for growth. I have worked with individuals on the Autism Spectrum & those with depressive, anxious, & trauma-related symptoms. I acknowledge that treatment of these challenges is not "one size fits all", & pride myself on my experience working with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals in polyamorous relationships, & those with different health conditions & ability statuses.
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Photo of Bethany Masimula, MA, MAT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bethany Masimula
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23294
I specialize in trauma-informed art therapy with a transpersonal approach, willing to integrate faith and spirituality at the discretion of the client.
Beyond any specific diagnosis, I view people and mental health holistically. With a background in education, I provide compassionate understanding of the unique challenges faced throughout the lifespan. I have experience and interest in working with people in high-stress careers, such as legal professionals and military personnel. If you are unsure about seeing a therapist, or if you have not found traditional 'talk therapy' to be beneficial, consider scheduling a consultation with me.
I specialize in trauma-informed art therapy with a transpersonal approach, willing to integrate faith and spirituality at the discretion of the client.
Beyond any specific diagnosis, I view people and mental health holistically. With a background in education, I provide compassionate understanding of the unique challenges faced throughout the lifespan. I have experience and interest in working with people in high-stress careers, such as legal professionals and military personnel. If you are unsure about seeing a therapist, or if you have not found traditional 'talk therapy' to be beneficial, consider scheduling a consultation with me.
(804) 463-5134 View (804) 463-5134
Photo of Andrea Sommer Ryan, MS
Andrea Sommer Ryan
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23075
Resolve trauma with present-focused strategies like Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and expressive art interventions, leave the past behind and st art enjoying the present.
I work with people who have tried everything and are still feeling stuck. Lingering trauma can cast a long shadow over life, causing feelings of dread, shame, and a constant sense that something bad is lurking around the corner, even when everything seems fine. It may lead to a perpetual state of high-alert, distracting the mind with worrying thoughts and exhausting the body through constant tension and anxiety. Others struggle with the isolation that comes from eating disorders and skewed body image, or they might belong to families weighed down by old pain, caught in frustrating cycles of arguments and guilt.
Resolve trauma with present-focused strategies like Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and expressive art interventions, leave the past behind and st art enjoying the present.
I work with people who have tried everything and are still feeling stuck. Lingering trauma can cast a long shadow over life, causing feelings of dread, shame, and a constant sense that something bad is lurking around the corner, even when everything seems fine. It may lead to a perpetual state of high-alert, distracting the mind with worrying thoughts and exhausting the body through constant tension and anxiety. Others struggle with the isolation that comes from eating disorders and skewed body image, or they might belong to families weighed down by old pain, caught in frustrating cycles of arguments and guilt.
(804) 567-8240 View (804) 567-8240
Photo of Myspectrum Counseling Coaching - MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
,), play therapy, art therapy, Autism, life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress management, medical issues impacting mental health, and wellbeing.
MySpectrum is an outpatient therapy practice located at 707 North Courthouse Road in North Chesterfield, Virginia. We offer outpatient counseling and coaching to any person, on any spectrum. We focus on the Autism Spectrum, Mental Health Spectrum, Substance Use Spectrum, and the Whole Life Spectrum. Our philosophy is that any person, regardless of situation, should have access to skilled Therapists who will truly meet you where you are at in your journey. To that end, each Therapist specializes in certain areas so that we can capture the needs of any person. We serve all of Virginia through Teletherapy.
,), play therapy, art therapy, Autism, life transitions, depression, anxiety, stress management, medical issues impacting mental health, and wellbeing.
MySpectrum is an outpatient therapy practice located at 707 North Courthouse Road in North Chesterfield, Virginia. We offer outpatient counseling and coaching to any person, on any spectrum. We focus on the Autism Spectrum, Mental Health Spectrum, Substance Use Spectrum, and the Whole Life Spectrum. Our philosophy is that any person, regardless of situation, should have access to skilled Therapists who will truly meet you where you are at in your journey. To that end, each Therapist specializes in certain areas so that we can capture the needs of any person. We serve all of Virginia through Teletherapy.
(804) 424-5754 View (804) 424-5754
Photo of Amber Golden, MS, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Golden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23233
I have the most training and expertise in art therapy, adolescents & young adults.
Welcome! I'm glad you've found me, and I hope something on my page resonates with you. It is important for me to share that I am a queer therapist - as in I am queer myself and prioritize and adore working with folks in the queer community. I utilize a person-centered, humanistic, strengths-based approach with my clients. My overall desire is to foster and build a safe place where you and I can collaboratively create a trusting therapeutic relationship where tough topics can be processed. Whether implementing “traditional” talk therapy, art therapy, or yoga, I operate from a body-positive, humanistic, trauma-informed perspective.
I have the most training and expertise in art therapy, adolescents & young adults.
Welcome! I'm glad you've found me, and I hope something on my page resonates with you. It is important for me to share that I am a queer therapist - as in I am queer myself and prioritize and adore working with folks in the queer community. I utilize a person-centered, humanistic, strengths-based approach with my clients. My overall desire is to foster and build a safe place where you and I can collaboratively create a trusting therapeutic relationship where tough topics can be processed. Whether implementing “traditional” talk therapy, art therapy, or yoga, I operate from a body-positive, humanistic, trauma-informed perspective.
(804) 361-8313 View (804) 361-8313
Full Circle Grief Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23238
Full Circle Grief Center's mission is to provide comprehensive professional bereavement support to children, adults, families, and communities. Since 2008, we have facilitated support groups and educational programs in Richmond and the surrounding communities. In 2018, our services expanded to include individual counseling for children (ages 3-17) and adults grieving the death of a loved one. During this one-on-one service, our therapists strive to provide a personal approach to grief support, working to understand your current needs and offering a safe place of acceptance to work through these needs.
Full Circle Grief Center's mission is to provide comprehensive professional bereavement support to children, adults, families, and communities. Since 2008, we have facilitated support groups and educational programs in Richmond and the surrounding communities. In 2018, our services expanded to include individual counseling for children (ages 3-17) and adults grieving the death of a loved one. During this one-on-one service, our therapists strive to provide a personal approach to grief support, working to understand your current needs and offering a safe place of acceptance to work through these needs.
(804) 374-9540 View (804) 374-9540
Photo of Emily Tate, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Tate
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23229
Have you ever felt like you wish you knew how to help yourself or your kids with their big feelings? We all need a little help from time to time, and I’m passionate about helping individuals work through their feelings, traumas, and grief in a fun, playful way. Prior to earning my LPC, I was an elementary school counselor for 20+ years and in that time had the privilege of helping many children and their families learn how to navigate developmental issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender identity, traumas, learn about their brains, coping skills, and so much more.
Have you ever felt like you wish you knew how to help yourself or your kids with their big feelings? We all need a little help from time to time, and I’m passionate about helping individuals work through their feelings, traumas, and grief in a fun, playful way. Prior to earning my LPC, I was an elementary school counselor for 20+ years and in that time had the privilege of helping many children and their families learn how to navigate developmental issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender identity, traumas, learn about their brains, coping skills, and so much more.
(804) 570-2048 View (804) 570-2048
Photo of Madison Jones, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23229
I am a Resident in Counseling and my experience includes work in university settings, community-based treatment, and out-patient treatment. I believe individuals innately hold the power to heal themselves and I am dedicated to joining individuals in their healing journey. I have a holistic, person-centered approach, aiming to provide a safe and healing therapeutic environment for all individuals. I am passionate about trauma treatment and its capacity to transform the mind and body. I integrate a variety of approaches including CBT, solution-focused, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems to meet the needs of each client.
I am a Resident in Counseling and my experience includes work in university settings, community-based treatment, and out-patient treatment. I believe individuals innately hold the power to heal themselves and I am dedicated to joining individuals in their healing journey. I have a holistic, person-centered approach, aiming to provide a safe and healing therapeutic environment for all individuals. I am passionate about trauma treatment and its capacity to transform the mind and body. I integrate a variety of approaches including CBT, solution-focused, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems to meet the needs of each client.
(804) 494-4699 View (804) 494-4699
Photo of Sarah Cordova, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Cordova
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23229
I pull from a few different therapeutic approaches such dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients understand their story and gain the confidence to change any p art of the narrative and rediscover themselves to create the life they want and deserve.
Dealing with a breakup can have your he art in a million pieces! Coping with the death of a loved one takes your breath away! Having mood swings and constantly being in conflict with others feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster! Perhaps, you’ve been dealing with depression for a long time but didn’t quite know what it was. For some of my clients, before starting therapy, they were at war with depression, dealing with intrusive thoughts related to past trauma, or trying to tame anxiety attacks. It thrills me to celebrate my clients’ successes and break throughs!
I pull from a few different therapeutic approaches such dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients understand their story and gain the confidence to change any p art of the narrative and rediscover themselves to create the life they want and deserve.
Dealing with a breakup can have your he art in a million pieces! Coping with the death of a loved one takes your breath away! Having mood swings and constantly being in conflict with others feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster! Perhaps, you’ve been dealing with depression for a long time but didn’t quite know what it was. For some of my clients, before starting therapy, they were at war with depression, dealing with intrusive thoughts related to past trauma, or trying to tame anxiety attacks. It thrills me to celebrate my clients’ successes and break throughs!
(804) 259-0624 View (804) 259-0624
Photo of Dreamel Spady - Renewal, Growth, & Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewal, Growth, & Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL sessions are available! Sometimes we face challenging situations that are complex and overwhelming, making it difficult for us to cope, see our options, or truly understand what is going on. Our therapists are able to see issues through a grounded, insight-oriented scope that will allow you to connect the dots about your thoughts, feelings, and actions. We are genuine, nonjudgmental, and compassionate, providing a warm and trusting environment where you can feel at ease exploring difficult issues. Our ultimate goal is to get on a positive path that leads you to real change, personal growth, and a fulfilling life.
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL sessions are available! Sometimes we face challenging situations that are complex and overwhelming, making it difficult for us to cope, see our options, or truly understand what is going on. Our therapists are able to see issues through a grounded, insight-oriented scope that will allow you to connect the dots about your thoughts, feelings, and actions. We are genuine, nonjudgmental, and compassionate, providing a warm and trusting environment where you can feel at ease exploring difficult issues. Our ultimate goal is to get on a positive path that leads you to real change, personal growth, and a fulfilling life.
(804) 808-1187 View (804) 808-1187
Photo of Rachel Melhorn, LCSW, RPT, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Melhorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23238
Accepting new TEEN clients Fall 2024 - The adolescent mental health crisis is real and we must act quickly and with care. As an teen therapist, I my role in working with teens is to support them in gaining the confidence to find their voice and to move from this space with purpose and compassion. I am a space holder, compassionate witness, boundary-lover and hopeful human. I love teenagers and believe they are insightful change-makers who are creative, intuitive, and independent. However, they can also feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, anxious, and alone when trying to understand themselves and how they fit into this world.
Accepting new TEEN clients Fall 2024 - The adolescent mental health crisis is real and we must act quickly and with care. As an teen therapist, I my role in working with teens is to support them in gaining the confidence to find their voice and to move from this space with purpose and compassion. I am a space holder, compassionate witness, boundary-lover and hopeful human. I love teenagers and believe they are insightful change-makers who are creative, intuitive, and independent. However, they can also feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, anxious, and alone when trying to understand themselves and how they fit into this world.
(804) 589-5251 View (804) 589-5251
Photo of Amy R Hammond, MA, Residen, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy R Hammond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, Residen
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23229
I am a trauma-informed resident in counseling working toward my LPC. I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, D.I.D, self-harm, sexual struggles, and some addictions. My approach is rooted in sensorimotor psychotherapy, interpersonal neurobiology, neuroscience, and narrative therapy, among other evidence-based practices, CBT, DBT, IFS, etc. With an understanding of how trauma impacts the brain, mind, and body, I provide a safe space for healing; by listening and understanding your perspective to identify what’s working for you and what you want to change.
I am a trauma-informed resident in counseling working toward my LPC. I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, D.I.D, self-harm, sexual struggles, and some addictions. My approach is rooted in sensorimotor psychotherapy, interpersonal neurobiology, neuroscience, and narrative therapy, among other evidence-based practices, CBT, DBT, IFS, etc. With an understanding of how trauma impacts the brain, mind, and body, I provide a safe space for healing; by listening and understanding your perspective to identify what’s working for you and what you want to change.
(804) 554-3949 View (804) 554-3949
Photo of Maddie Decker, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maddie Decker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
I believe the key for successful therapy is finding someone you can fully trust and feel completely comfortable with. If you are seeking a warm, inclusive and compassionate therapist to help you on your journey, I’d love to meet with you! Most people who come to see me hope to find clarity on relationships, figure out how to set boundaries, give their life a better sense of direction, or find themselves. Whether you are looking for relief from anxiety and worry, or you are trying to regain joy and rhythm of life, I’d be honored to help you on that journey.
I believe the key for successful therapy is finding someone you can fully trust and feel completely comfortable with. If you are seeking a warm, inclusive and compassionate therapist to help you on your journey, I’d love to meet with you! Most people who come to see me hope to find clarity on relationships, figure out how to set boundaries, give their life a better sense of direction, or find themselves. Whether you are looking for relief from anxiety and worry, or you are trying to regain joy and rhythm of life, I’d be honored to help you on that journey.
(804) 594-8042 View (804) 594-8042
Photo of Amy Miller - Lifebridge Counseling, LLC - Central Virginia, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebridge Counseling, LLC - Central Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23228
Outpatient Counseling offers a variety of therapeutic interventions by licensed and skilled providers of mental health services. We offer a warm, welcoming environment where members of our community can receive confidential, quality, client-centered therapeutic services to meet the many numerous emotional and behavioral struggles they may face. We work closely with referral sources and other providers to allow for the most comprehensive and valuable service provision.
Outpatient Counseling offers a variety of therapeutic interventions by licensed and skilled providers of mental health services. We offer a warm, welcoming environment where members of our community can receive confidential, quality, client-centered therapeutic services to meet the many numerous emotional and behavioral struggles they may face. We work closely with referral sources and other providers to allow for the most comprehensive and valuable service provision.
(804) 409-7977 View (804) 409-7977
Photo of Alexis L Johnson, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis L Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23231
With a diverse range of experiences and a genuine passion for both her professional and personal interests, Alexis embodies a therapist who is not only well-equipped to support individuals on their mental health journey but also deeply connected to the beauty and diversity of the human experience.
With a diverse range of experiences and a genuine passion for both her professional and personal interests, Alexis embodies a therapist who is not only well-equipped to support individuals on their mental health journey but also deeply connected to the beauty and diversity of the human experience.
(804) 395-7690 View (804) 395-7690
Photo of Daija Monroe, MA, LPC-R
Daija Monroe
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23231  (Online Only)
Welcome to your well-being journey! I'm Daija, your dedicated outpatient therapist with a Bachelor's in Psychology from Virginia State University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. With extensive experience assisting diverse clients of all ages, I provide tailored, evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and MBSR to empower you on your path to mental and emotional well-being. Let's work collaboratively to create a secure, non-judgmental space for your personal growth and a brighter future.
Welcome to your well-being journey! I'm Daija, your dedicated outpatient therapist with a Bachelor's in Psychology from Virginia State University and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. With extensive experience assisting diverse clients of all ages, I provide tailored, evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and MBSR to empower you on your path to mental and emotional well-being. Let's work collaboratively to create a secure, non-judgmental space for your personal growth and a brighter future.
(804) 294-4347 View (804) 294-4347
Photo of Robin DeHaven-Roberts, LPC, LSATP , Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin DeHaven-Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23233
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling ap art? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a p art of others journeys to become happy and whole.
Are you or someone in your family constantly dealing with depression and anxiety and nothing seems to be working? Does it feel like no matter how hard you try, your relationship is still falling ap art? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If so I can help. I love being a p art of others journeys to become happy and whole.
(804) 395-6433 View (804) 395-6433
Photo of Pamela Willard, MS, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Willard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23294
You are not alone in your journey to feel better, mentally and physically. Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, stress or feelings of fear that are holding you back? Symptoms of PTSD? Feeling depressed, overwhelmed or unmotivated? Do you have unresolved trauma? Have you experienced abuse? Difficult or unfulfilling relationships? I specialize in helping clients identify problem areas in their lives and formulate goals to improve them. We will work to eliminate any self limiting and sabotaging beliefs patterns and you will acquire coping skills, strategies and resources to succeed. Healing and thriving is possible!
You are not alone in your journey to feel better, mentally and physically. Are you experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, stress or feelings of fear that are holding you back? Symptoms of PTSD? Feeling depressed, overwhelmed or unmotivated? Do you have unresolved trauma? Have you experienced abuse? Difficult or unfulfilling relationships? I specialize in helping clients identify problem areas in their lives and formulate goals to improve them. We will work to eliminate any self limiting and sabotaging beliefs patterns and you will acquire coping skills, strategies and resources to succeed. Healing and thriving is possible!
(804) 259-0967 View (804) 259-0967
Photo of Christine Elizabeth Oglesby - Christine Oglesby Family Therapy, PLLC, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Oglesby Family Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
What really sets our practice ap art I think is the trust that Clients speak of in working with us; that they feel they are finally truly being listened to, often for the first time! Change occurs when you break from a trauma based identity to a self-aware, future focused one based on postive, life-affirming goals that create healing & a new life narrative.
I feel a genuine responsibility on my p art to respect the courage it takes to entrust me; to ask for help. In sharing your life story with me, my responsibility is to hear where you are & where you want to be, not to be judgmental but w/mindfulness, dignity & respect. I will work with individuals, couples, co-parents & families reunify & restore healthy interactions. Since 2003, I have extensive experience working w/ trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, LGBTQ+, family pxs. There is hope to resolve difficult problems, move beyond them & create a new life narrative of empowerment. Flex. hrs: Th-Su inc evenings & weekends!
What really sets our practice ap art I think is the trust that Clients speak of in working with us; that they feel they are finally truly being listened to, often for the first time! Change occurs when you break from a trauma based identity to a self-aware, future focused one based on postive, life-affirming goals that create healing & a new life narrative.
I feel a genuine responsibility on my p art to respect the courage it takes to entrust me; to ask for help. In sharing your life story with me, my responsibility is to hear where you are & where you want to be, not to be judgmental but w/mindfulness, dignity & respect. I will work with individuals, couples, co-parents & families reunify & restore healthy interactions. Since 2003, I have extensive experience working w/ trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, LGBTQ+, family pxs. There is hope to resolve difficult problems, move beyond them & create a new life narrative of empowerment. Flex. hrs: Th-Su inc evenings & weekends!
(804) 352-2395 View (804) 352-2395
1
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.