Photo of Abby White, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abby White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
I enjoy working with people experiencing difficulty in all elements of life. I look through the lens of family systems which means I incorporate family dynamics and looking at generational patterns to learn more about what is presently impacting the clients ability to function optimally. I specialize in working with families all together to support change longevity. I particularly enjoy working with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, or facing relationship difficulty. I use many methods to help people process their stress and trauma including art, movement, talk, and practicing alternative ways to navigate the world.
(360) 780-3005 View (360) 780-3005
Photo of Niashay Whitaker, LMHC , MHP, Counselor
Niashay Whitaker
Counselor, LMHC , MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
In my practice I incorporate art, mindfulness, DBT, and offer assessments and screenings.
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
In my practice I incorporate art, mindfulness, DBT, and offer assessments and screenings.
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
(206) 203-9492 View (206) 203-9492
Photo of Amberlyn Casperson, MA, LMHCA
Amberlyn Casperson
MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
Seeking help from others can be very challenging, and in my experience, it is those that seek help that express the utmost courage. As a therapist, most of my experience has been centered around helping children and their families, many of whom have viewed therapy as a last resort. As a therapist, my mission is to help my clients heal and recover from things like depression, anxiety, or trauma in a way that is central to who they are. I utilize both art and play therapy to help understand my clients in expressive ways. I also utilize psychodynamic therapy to gain a bigger perspective of my clients’ past, present and futures.
Seeking help from others can be very challenging, and in my experience, it is those that seek help that express the utmost courage. As a therapist, most of my experience has been centered around helping children and their families, many of whom have viewed therapy as a last resort. As a therapist, my mission is to help my clients heal and recover from things like depression, anxiety, or trauma in a way that is central to who they are. I utilize both art and play therapy to help understand my clients in expressive ways. I also utilize psychodynamic therapy to gain a bigger perspective of my clients’ past, present and futures.
(253) 544-3548 View (253) 544-3548
Photo of Annie Sturtewagen, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Annie Sturtewagen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
She loves working with children in play therapy, music and art therapy.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
She loves working with children in play therapy, music and art therapy.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
(253) 262-0586 View (253) 262-0586
Photo of Karin I Reese, MA, LMHCA, NBC-HWC, Counselor
Karin I Reese
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
As a therapist who uses person-centered, art, and play therapy, I offer a compassionate, collaborative and holistic approach to help navigate life's challenges.
Are you a woman in your 30s or beyond, seeking support, insight, and empowerment through life's challenges and triumphs? Look no further. As a licensed mental health counselor associate specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space for women to explore, heal, and flourish. I am a passionate advocate for women's well-being, with experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of adulthood. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
As a therapist who uses person-centered, art, and play therapy, I offer a compassionate, collaborative and holistic approach to help navigate life's challenges.
Are you a woman in your 30s or beyond, seeking support, insight, and empowerment through life's challenges and triumphs? Look no further. As a licensed mental health counselor associate specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space for women to explore, heal, and flourish. I am a passionate advocate for women's well-being, with experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of adulthood. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and evidence-based practices tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
(253) 364-4346 View (253) 364-4346
Photo of Makael L White, LMFT, ATR, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Makael L White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, ATR, MA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Waitlist for new clients
As a Relational Art Therapist, I lean on both the verbal and non-verbal to process and dance with our natural defenses.
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
As a Relational Art Therapist, I lean on both the verbal and non-verbal to process and dance with our natural defenses.
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
(206) 312-7423 View (206) 312-7423
Photo of Leanne M Perez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanne M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Are you looking for someone who can help you understand the challenges you are facing in your life? Do you want someone who truly listens to you? Artistic Affirmations Counseling offers a unique combination of looking at family relations and implementing creative modalities to help you reach self enlightenment. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families & the LGBTQ community. I am a licensed therapist with professional training in art therapy. Through the family system lens, I combine many theoretical approaches to fit your needs to maximize your journey towards a greater insight into your own well-being.
Are you looking for someone who can help you understand the challenges you are facing in your life? Do you want someone who truly listens to you? Artistic Affirmations Counseling offers a unique combination of looking at family relations and implementing creative modalities to help you reach self enlightenment. I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families & the LGBTQ community. I am a licensed therapist with professional training in art therapy. Through the family system lens, I combine many theoretical approaches to fit your needs to maximize your journey towards a greater insight into your own well-being.
(253) 218-4848 View (253) 218-4848
Photo of Lindsey Moseman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Moseman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98407
Not accepting new clients
I also specialize in utilizing Art Therapy as a means of both understanding and facilitating change in my work with young people as well as adults.
Have you noticed changes within your child's behavior that leave you feeling confused as to what to do or say? Perhaps your child has been struggling with overwhelming anxiety or emotional outbursts. Or perhaps you've noticed your teenager begin to isolate, drop in their grades, and become overly self-critical. Children and teenagers are often communicating their needs through their behaviors, and it is often very difficult as a parent to know what to do. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling within difficult emotional experiences, transitions like divorce, or within relationships.
I also specialize in utilizing Art Therapy as a means of both understanding and facilitating change in my work with young people as well as adults.
Have you noticed changes within your child's behavior that leave you feeling confused as to what to do or say? Perhaps your child has been struggling with overwhelming anxiety or emotional outbursts. Or perhaps you've noticed your teenager begin to isolate, drop in their grades, and become overly self-critical. Children and teenagers are often communicating their needs through their behaviors, and it is often very difficult as a parent to know what to do. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling within difficult emotional experiences, transitions like divorce, or within relationships.
(253) 733-0136 View (253) 733-0136
Photo of Michelle Baker, LMHC, CMHS, MHP, Counselor
Michelle Baker
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
I utilize art therapy believing that we are inherently creative and that we all have the ability to find ways to process deeper emotions and experiences, in a way that language cannot process.
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
I utilize art therapy believing that we are inherently creative and that we all have the ability to find ways to process deeper emotions and experiences, in a way that language cannot process.
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
(253) 527-7789 View (253) 527-7789
Photo of Amee Respicio, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amee Respicio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edgewood, WA 98371
Whether through art, play, or talk, I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and trauma-informed mental health interventions for children and adolescents (ages 3+) who need support with: anxiety, ADHD, executive functioning support needs, depression, trauma/PTSD, and behavioral problems at home/school. I am also certified in providing Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based practice for children who are experiencing emotional and behavioral problems.
Whether through art, play, or talk, I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and trauma-informed mental health interventions for children and adolescents (ages 3+) who need support with: anxiety, ADHD, executive functioning support needs, depression, trauma/PTSD, and behavioral problems at home/school. I am also certified in providing Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based practice for children who are experiencing emotional and behavioral problems.
(253) 352-3847 View (253) 352-3847
Photo of Diana Quinn, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Diana Quinn
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98409
Art therapy is an exploratory process which facilitates a deeper self-discovery and understanding of our own feelings and ideas.
You're probably wondering if therapy can help. You may be feeling unsure how to label what you are going through and don't know yet what you want to get out of therapy. Even if you are unsure about what your goals are, you do know that some of what is going on right now isn't working and you are thinking about getting help. Feel free to call or email to start a conversation to see if we might be a good fit for working together so that you can get closer to being yourself and feeling happier.
Art therapy is an exploratory process which facilitates a deeper self-discovery and understanding of our own feelings and ideas.
You're probably wondering if therapy can help. You may be feeling unsure how to label what you are going through and don't know yet what you want to get out of therapy. Even if you are unsure about what your goals are, you do know that some of what is going on right now isn't working and you are thinking about getting help. Feel free to call or email to start a conversation to see if we might be a good fit for working together so that you can get closer to being yourself and feeling happier.
(253) 242-6619 View (253) 242-6619
Photo of Elizabeth Klein, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Other services: Life Coaching, Reiki Energy Healing, Sacred Plant Facilitation, Biofield Tuning (Sound Healing), Body Movement, Art Therapy.
Current Openings for Private Pay Ketamine-Assisted Therapy... All others: 3-4 month waitlist. I focus on trauma work by creating a safe space for healthy healing. As a holistic practitioner, I believe in treating the body, mind, and spirit as one unit. My approach to healing is compassionate and tailored to each individual's needs. I want to help you achieve optimal growth, health, and wellness in all areas of your life. That's why I offer a range of services that focus on healing the root causes of your health concerns.
Other services: Life Coaching, Reiki Energy Healing, Sacred Plant Facilitation, Biofield Tuning (Sound Healing), Body Movement, Art Therapy.
Current Openings for Private Pay Ketamine-Assisted Therapy... All others: 3-4 month waitlist. I focus on trauma work by creating a safe space for healthy healing. As a holistic practitioner, I believe in treating the body, mind, and spirit as one unit. My approach to healing is compassionate and tailored to each individual's needs. I want to help you achieve optimal growth, health, and wellness in all areas of your life. That's why I offer a range of services that focus on healing the root causes of your health concerns.
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Photo of Tory Booth, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tory Booth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist, I see our work together through a systemic and creative lens.
The first step in the therapy process is building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion. I offer a down to earth approach that recognizes your struggles and your strengths. Growth occurs when we believe that we are truly accepted for who we are right now. When this happens, we are better equipped to see what we may want to hold onto and what we may want to shift. I will think creatively with you as this process unfolds and provide a safe place for you to think, feel and construct meaning of your experiences.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist, I see our work together through a systemic and creative lens.
The first step in the therapy process is building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion. I offer a down to earth approach that recognizes your struggles and your strengths. Growth occurs when we believe that we are truly accepted for who we are right now. When this happens, we are better equipped to see what we may want to hold onto and what we may want to shift. I will think creatively with you as this process unfolds and provide a safe place for you to think, feel and construct meaning of your experiences.
(206) 823-2922 View (206) 823-2922
Photo of Shelby Kanaly, MPS, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Shelby Kanaly
Counselor, MPS, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
Engaging in creative expression, with the help of a trained Art Therapist, has the potential to generate new neural pathways to foster healing.
Hello, I am the owner and Supervisor at Creative Expressions Therapy. We are a small, but slowly growing practice with current availability. We believe the therapeutic relationship is essential for growth. We focus on getting to know the way you experience yourself, your world, and others around you. The systems we exist in perpetuate dispiriting degrees of privilege and oppression, which significantly impact how we relate to our selves and our community. We aim to help navigate these systems and gain insight in order to make meaningful change. We value compassion, equity, creativity, humor, and honesty in our work with clients.
Engaging in creative expression, with the help of a trained Art Therapist, has the potential to generate new neural pathways to foster healing.
Hello, I am the owner and Supervisor at Creative Expressions Therapy. We are a small, but slowly growing practice with current availability. We believe the therapeutic relationship is essential for growth. We focus on getting to know the way you experience yourself, your world, and others around you. The systems we exist in perpetuate dispiriting degrees of privilege and oppression, which significantly impact how we relate to our selves and our community. We aim to help navigate these systems and gain insight in order to make meaningful change. We value compassion, equity, creativity, humor, and honesty in our work with clients.
(206) 430-1435 View (206) 430-1435
Photo of Jennifer R Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Jennifer R Trefonas
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
Waitlist for new clients
I use ASSERTIVENESS training, BUILDING COMMUNICATION & INTERPERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS, art therapy, hypnosis, CBT, MOTIVATIONAL Interviewing, role-playing, and other techniques to help you.
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
I use ASSERTIVENESS training, BUILDING COMMUNICATION & INTERPERSONAL EFFECTIVENESS, art therapy, hypnosis, CBT, MOTIVATIONAL Interviewing, role-playing, and other techniques to help you.
Hello, I am Jennifer R. Trefonas, MS, LMHC, MHP. I was initially licensed in FL in 1992, moved to WA 2002; licensed WA 2001. I ENJOY assisting INDIVIDUALS, FAMILIES, COUPLES, & CHILDREN in overcoming obstacles. I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Contact me for HELP with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction issues, bullying, grief, feeling shamed, taken advantage of, abuse of any kind, trouble at work, getting along with others, HOW TO BE HAPPY and POSITIVE, hypnosis, and most anything! I'm NOT PARANOID, but that is funny,,,:)
(253) 352-3122 View (253) 352-3122
Photo of Marjorie Nelch, Marjorie Nelch, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Marjorie Nelch
Counselor, Marjorie Nelch, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401
I use a mix of Person-Centered therapy, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral, and Art/Music Therapy.
Do you struggle with distressing thoughts, feelings, or relationships? I view these problems as both present and past, meaning what we learn early in life may be unknowingly affecting the way we behave in the present. The counseling process can help to illuminate personal strengths, goals, and solutions to fit your unique story and personal desires.
I use a mix of Person-Centered therapy, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral, and Art/Music Therapy.
Do you struggle with distressing thoughts, feelings, or relationships? I view these problems as both present and past, meaning what we learn early in life may be unknowingly affecting the way we behave in the present. The counseling process can help to illuminate personal strengths, goals, and solutions to fit your unique story and personal desires.
(206) 202-5843 View (206) 202-5843
Photo of Kelly Kaderlik, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Kaderlik
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
I would love to guide you in the process of art making to promote your own personal healing.
Hello, my name is Kelly Kaderlik. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find a counselor and the feelings that come with starting therapy. The fact that you are looking at this page now shows that you are ready and willing to make a change in your life, therapy is hard work, and the progress can feel slow sometimes but I will point out your strengths and accomplishments on our journey together. I would like to provide you some more information about who I am and my professional experience so you can make an informed decision about working together. You can always call me too if you would like to know more.
I would love to guide you in the process of art making to promote your own personal healing.
Hello, my name is Kelly Kaderlik. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find a counselor and the feelings that come with starting therapy. The fact that you are looking at this page now shows that you are ready and willing to make a change in your life, therapy is hard work, and the progress can feel slow sometimes but I will point out your strengths and accomplishments on our journey together. I would like to provide you some more information about who I am and my professional experience so you can make an informed decision about working together. You can always call me too if you would like to know more.
(360) 818-7207 View (360) 818-7207
Photo of Alison Fasolino, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Alison Fasolino
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My roots are in art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT & ACT.
Hi! The first step is acknowledging that you need more support & I am proud of your bravery. Are you looking for a therapist that will treat you with respect, listen with compassion, & always have your back? I will do this for you every time! I offer a safe & non-judgmental space that will allow you to feel secure, heard, & supported. I will not shy away from asking you the tough questions & being honest with what I observe. You deserve to heal & I promise to help you do just that. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and pregnancy but I work with a variety of concerns! I support children, adolescents, and adults.
My roots are in art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT & ACT.
Hi! The first step is acknowledging that you need more support & I am proud of your bravery. Are you looking for a therapist that will treat you with respect, listen with compassion, & always have your back? I will do this for you every time! I offer a safe & non-judgmental space that will allow you to feel secure, heard, & supported. I will not shy away from asking you the tough questions & being honest with what I observe. You deserve to heal & I promise to help you do just that. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and pregnancy but I work with a variety of concerns! I support children, adolescents, and adults.
(425) 541-8575 View (425) 541-8575
Photo of Ivey West, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Ivey West
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98405
Not accepting new clients
Renowned therapist Virginia Satir said: "Life is not what it is supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference." It sums up my philosophy of therapy. Life is hard. Coping is hard. Effective coping strategies can bring peace and satisfaction no matter your history, your current challenges, or your future unknowns. How to cope.
Renowned therapist Virginia Satir said: "Life is not what it is supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference." It sums up my philosophy of therapy. Life is hard. Coping is hard. Effective coping strategies can bring peace and satisfaction no matter your history, your current challenges, or your future unknowns. How to cope.
(253) 655-0947 View (253) 655-0947
Photo of Eleesa Blake, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Eleesa Blake
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Pain and struggle are parts of being human. You are an incredible survivor to have withstood so much, and I believe you don't have to navigate struggle alone. Your authentic you is welcome with me. In therapy we get the chance to explore the human that you are, what's happened to you, what you need, and who you want to be. I support you in the challenges and triumphs unique to you being you. I find diversity beautiful and love the spectrums of race, gender, and sexuality. I am trans-affirming and support transitions. I support the health of traditional and non-traditional intimate relationships. You are my teacher about you.
Pain and struggle are parts of being human. You are an incredible survivor to have withstood so much, and I believe you don't have to navigate struggle alone. Your authentic you is welcome with me. In therapy we get the chance to explore the human that you are, what's happened to you, what you need, and who you want to be. I support you in the challenges and triumphs unique to you being you. I find diversity beautiful and love the spectrums of race, gender, and sexuality. I am trans-affirming and support transitions. I support the health of traditional and non-traditional intimate relationships. You are my teacher about you.
(253) 884-8543 View (253) 884-8543

See more therapy options for Pierce County

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.