Art Therapy in Central District, Seattle, WA

Photo of Jennifer Spektor, MA, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Jennifer Spektor
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Are you seeking your truth? Feeling stuck? Do you want a therapist who really gets you? Perhaps you are part of a relationship or polycule, seeking to work on communication and intimacy in a non-judgemental environment. I am an art therapist and counselor working with individual adults and relationships from a person-centered lense. As an artist, DJ, and Jewish trans woman (free Palestine!) I know how important it can be to have a therapist who has lived experience on the margins. Using a warm and direct approach, I support people in the process of living their truths, creating the life and relationships that are genuine to them.
Are you seeking your truth? Feeling stuck? Do you want a therapist who really gets you? Perhaps you are part of a relationship or polycule, seeking to work on communication and intimacy in a non-judgemental environment. I am an art therapist and counselor working with individual adults and relationships from a person-centered lense. As an artist, DJ, and Jewish trans woman (free Palestine!) I know how important it can be to have a therapist who has lived experience on the margins. Using a warm and direct approach, I support people in the process of living their truths, creating the life and relationships that are genuine to them.
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Photo of Joy Rufener, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Joy Rufener
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
Integrating art making in therapy can help us understand our path to healing and wholeness.
Is life feeling like too much to handle alone lately? Are you feeling stuck or hopeless? Do you struggle to prioritize yourself or even know who you are or what you want? You are not alone. This non-judgmental space has been created for you to unload your burden. You will be listened to, believed in, acknowledged, and seen. You will be welcomed. You are invited to create this space for yourself. Together we will embark on a journey toward emotional healing and wholeness, exploring mind, body, and spirit.
Integrating art making in therapy can help us understand our path to healing and wholeness.
Is life feeling like too much to handle alone lately? Are you feeling stuck or hopeless? Do you struggle to prioritize yourself or even know who you are or what you want? You are not alone. This non-judgmental space has been created for you to unload your burden. You will be listened to, believed in, acknowledged, and seen. You will be welcomed. You are invited to create this space for yourself. Together we will embark on a journey toward emotional healing and wholeness, exploring mind, body, and spirit.
(562) 553-8905 View (562) 553-8905
Photo of Scott Avery Lewis - Scotty Lewis, MA, CHT, AAC, BFA
Scotty Lewis
MA, CHT, AAC, BFA
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
An underlying metaphor and foundation of my Hakomi Psychotherapy work is the concept of Kintsukuroi, meaning, "To Repair With Gold:" The Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold with the understanding that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken.
As a Certified Hakomi Therapist my offering is a Somatic Experiential Psychotherapy modality that is gentle, non-judgmental, and compassionate; a form of assisted self-study where the client studies his or her responses to explorations in a mindful state of consciousness. We become aware and touch upon the very organizing experiences that have been a part of our habitual life - the patterns that no long serve us. We increase clarity, creativity, confidence and awareness and break through obstacles towards ease, connection and vitality. I am available for phone or online sessions.
An underlying metaphor and foundation of my Hakomi Psychotherapy work is the concept of Kintsukuroi, meaning, "To Repair With Gold:" The Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold with the understanding that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken.
As a Certified Hakomi Therapist my offering is a Somatic Experiential Psychotherapy modality that is gentle, non-judgmental, and compassionate; a form of assisted self-study where the client studies his or her responses to explorations in a mindful state of consciousness. We become aware and touch upon the very organizing experiences that have been a part of our habitual life - the patterns that no long serve us. We increase clarity, creativity, confidence and awareness and break through obstacles towards ease, connection and vitality. I am available for phone or online sessions.
(360) 218-0166 View (360) 218-0166
Photo of Laura Weinstein, LMFT, ATR-BC, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Weinstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
You don't have to be an artist or have art experience to work with me.
It's safe to say there is no one-size-fits-all way to come of age during a global pandemic and Youth Mental Health Crisis. As a youth and family art therapist, I am here to help, young adults, teens, and preteens learn to harness their strengths and turn them into coping skills they can use everyday to maintain emotional balance during these exceptionally stressful times. I am experienced in the full range of challenges facing young clients, but have particular expertise with depression / anxiety/ bi-polar disorder, major life transitions and stress, suicidal thoughts, gender exploration, PTSD, and chronic illness/ pain/ disability.
You don't have to be an artist or have art experience to work with me.
It's safe to say there is no one-size-fits-all way to come of age during a global pandemic and Youth Mental Health Crisis. As a youth and family art therapist, I am here to help, young adults, teens, and preteens learn to harness their strengths and turn them into coping skills they can use everyday to maintain emotional balance during these exceptionally stressful times. I am experienced in the full range of challenges facing young clients, but have particular expertise with depression / anxiety/ bi-polar disorder, major life transitions and stress, suicidal thoughts, gender exploration, PTSD, and chronic illness/ pain/ disability.
(425) 584-1785 View (425) 584-1785
Photo of Danielle M Rosa, ATR, LMHC, Counselor
Danielle M Rosa
Counselor, ATR, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
I am a dual trained mental health counselor and art therapist with specialized training for trauma in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR.
Based on 10 years of experience, I am passionate about guiding people on their transformative journeys of self-discovery and healing. With empathy and creativity, we will use the power of expression as a pathway to profound insights and personal growth. In my inclusive space, honoring diversity and fostering a sense of acceptance is key. Let's shed the layers of your past and embark on igniting the spark within you to radiate authenticity and strength. Whether you seek to unravel the depths of your emotions, release past traumas, or simply reconnect with your inner muse, I'm here to walk with you, sculpting joy and authenticity.
I am a dual trained mental health counselor and art therapist with specialized training for trauma in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR.
Based on 10 years of experience, I am passionate about guiding people on their transformative journeys of self-discovery and healing. With empathy and creativity, we will use the power of expression as a pathway to profound insights and personal growth. In my inclusive space, honoring diversity and fostering a sense of acceptance is key. Let's shed the layers of your past and embark on igniting the spark within you to radiate authenticity and strength. Whether you seek to unravel the depths of your emotions, release past traumas, or simply reconnect with your inner muse, I'm here to walk with you, sculpting joy and authenticity.
(206) 569-8208 View (206) 569-8208
Photo of Inge Remesz, Pre-Licensed Professional
Inge Remesz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
My intention is to hold clients in a space of warmth and care, recognizing the inherent worthiness and beauty that lives within each person and reflecting that back to them. If you choose to work with me, I will support you in building the resiliency needed to endure and alchemize life’s pain and discomfort. We will do this by gaining awareness of what is happening below the surface of the mind; in the body and the emotional world, and staying present with your experience. Ultimately, my goal is to help you bring love, compassion, and kindness to the most neglected parts of yourself.
My intention is to hold clients in a space of warmth and care, recognizing the inherent worthiness and beauty that lives within each person and reflecting that back to them. If you choose to work with me, I will support you in building the resiliency needed to endure and alchemize life’s pain and discomfort. We will do this by gaining awareness of what is happening below the surface of the mind; in the body and the emotional world, and staying present with your experience. Ultimately, my goal is to help you bring love, compassion, and kindness to the most neglected parts of yourself.
(253) 525-1503 View (253) 525-1503
Photo of Molly Murphy, MA, LMHCA, NBCC, EEM-AP, Counselor
Molly Murphy
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NBCC, EEM-AP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Are you feeling ungrounded, untethered, or disconnected from yourself? Maybe you need some support closing in on goals that are just a little out of reach? Life's responsibilities and emotions (and the stories that often accompanies them) can be overwhelming. Sometimes old traumas visit and need your attention. Discovering yourself and your path is an ongoing process-I know it well & I'm here for it. . . let's craft a way to support you and help you reach a new version of yourself. Investing in yourself is a worthwhile adventure. Reach out to me (sidebar) or molly at lifetide-wellness .com. I currently have bi-weekly openings.
Are you feeling ungrounded, untethered, or disconnected from yourself? Maybe you need some support closing in on goals that are just a little out of reach? Life's responsibilities and emotions (and the stories that often accompanies them) can be overwhelming. Sometimes old traumas visit and need your attention. Discovering yourself and your path is an ongoing process-I know it well & I'm here for it. . . let's craft a way to support you and help you reach a new version of yourself. Investing in yourself is a worthwhile adventure. Reach out to me (sidebar) or molly at lifetide-wellness .com. I currently have bi-weekly openings.
(253) 881-9854 View (253) 881-9854
Photo of Suenia Villagerardo, LCSW, CEAP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suenia Villagerardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Virtual Sessions Only. I work well with anyone who seeks therapy and is ready to work on themselves. I have worked with about every population, culture and age group. Issues that I am best suited to treating include a wide variety of disorders, childhood trauma, addictions, domestic violence, parenting/bonding/interpersonal relationships. I certified in EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I like to offer different forms of expression to my clients in the healing arts. I also give plenty of skill building tools and homework so clients can maximize their progress outside of the weekly sessions. I speak Spanish fluently.
Virtual Sessions Only. I work well with anyone who seeks therapy and is ready to work on themselves. I have worked with about every population, culture and age group. Issues that I am best suited to treating include a wide variety of disorders, childhood trauma, addictions, domestic violence, parenting/bonding/interpersonal relationships. I certified in EMDR and expressive arts therapy. I like to offer different forms of expression to my clients in the healing arts. I also give plenty of skill building tools and homework so clients can maximize their progress outside of the weekly sessions. I speak Spanish fluently.
(831) 265-5618 View (831) 265-5618
Photo of Kristene Kaim, MA, MHP, LMHC, CCATP, Counselor
Kristene Kaim
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
Hello, I'm psychotherapist working virtually and in Belltown/South Lake Union, Seattle. Therapy is a place where you can talk about how thoughts and feelings affect your sense of self, environment, and relationships. I focus on anxiety. I work with clients who range from just needing a place to explore their thoughts, to focused therapy on specific areas of distress. I specialize in anxiety and mood disorders. I have a special interest and have much experience working with folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LGBTQ+ and relationship issues are another passion.
Hello, I'm psychotherapist working virtually and in Belltown/South Lake Union, Seattle. Therapy is a place where you can talk about how thoughts and feelings affect your sense of self, environment, and relationships. I focus on anxiety. I work with clients who range from just needing a place to explore their thoughts, to focused therapy on specific areas of distress. I specialize in anxiety and mood disorders. I have a special interest and have much experience working with folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LGBTQ+ and relationship issues are another passion.
(206) 207-6161 View (206) 207-6161
Photo of Jennifer Henderson - Racial Identity - Jennifer Henderson, MA, LMHC, ATR, EMMHS, Counselor
Racial Identity - Jennifer Henderson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR, EMMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
My practice has a special focus on the issues specific to Black & BIPOC folx & their relationships with their children, partners and families. I look forward to working with those who are motivated to explore, understand and love themselves while creating positive life changes. Sometimes our past continues to impact our present life. Other times life creates conflict and tension for us and our families. For BLACK & BIPOC folx the stress of navigating racial bias, discrimination and racism in our world, plus intergenerational trauma add challenges to our healing journeys. I feel honored to walk this path with you! Are you ready?
My practice has a special focus on the issues specific to Black & BIPOC folx & their relationships with their children, partners and families. I look forward to working with those who are motivated to explore, understand and love themselves while creating positive life changes. Sometimes our past continues to impact our present life. Other times life creates conflict and tension for us and our families. For BLACK & BIPOC folx the stress of navigating racial bias, discrimination and racism in our world, plus intergenerational trauma add challenges to our healing journeys. I feel honored to walk this path with you! Are you ready?
(206) 966-4353 View (206) 966-4353
Photo of Jennifer Reisberg, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Reisberg
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
I see adults and teenagers who are struggling with social issues, adjusting to new environments, family conflicts, experiencing a crisis, or just going through a tough time. I specialize in helping people explore and work through issues and questions around gender and sexuality. I work with people to help them to heal and gain a better understanding of themselves and their lives.
I see adults and teenagers who are struggling with social issues, adjusting to new environments, family conflicts, experiencing a crisis, or just going through a tough time. I specialize in helping people explore and work through issues and questions around gender and sexuality. I work with people to help them to heal and gain a better understanding of themselves and their lives.
(206) 900-8997 View (206) 900-8997
Photo of Sybil Besheer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sybil Besheer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
I believe strongly that we each have deeply rooted wisdom that helps us survive and grow. By coming to trust our wisdom and intuition we establish a strong foundation of learning to navigate an ever-changing world. My role is to witness and enter into this process with you as a guide into the unknown through healing exploration. When we can be compassionately curious with ourselves, the stored/protected unconscious begins to emerge and we then have the opportunity to practice new ways of being in the world that feel good to us. Healing is the process of creating space for and integrating aspects of ourselves that need honoring.
I believe strongly that we each have deeply rooted wisdom that helps us survive and grow. By coming to trust our wisdom and intuition we establish a strong foundation of learning to navigate an ever-changing world. My role is to witness and enter into this process with you as a guide into the unknown through healing exploration. When we can be compassionately curious with ourselves, the stored/protected unconscious begins to emerge and we then have the opportunity to practice new ways of being in the world that feel good to us. Healing is the process of creating space for and integrating aspects of ourselves that need honoring.
(425) 414-7706 View (425) 414-7706
Photo of Brandon Tripp - Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, Counselor
Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
(425) 230-4099 View (425) 230-4099
Photo of Nhautrey Brown - Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
Why’s Words Therapy is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapeutic services to clients of all ages! With extensive experience in individual, family, and group therapy from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, we are confident we can help. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, battling depression, seeking to understand your traumas, or curious about the benefits of therapy, we are here to support you. If you have a child or teen in need of guidance, or if you want to explore how therapy can enhance your life, we are committed to helping you navigate your journey towards mental wellness!
Why’s Words Therapy is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional therapeutic services to clients of all ages! With extensive experience in individual, family, and group therapy from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, we are confident we can help. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, battling depression, seeking to understand your traumas, or curious about the benefits of therapy, we are here to support you. If you have a child or teen in need of guidance, or if you want to explore how therapy can enhance your life, we are committed to helping you navigate your journey towards mental wellness!
(206) 385-1411 View (206) 385-1411
Photo of Deborah Redmond - Online Therapy With Deborah Redmond, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Therapy With Deborah Redmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Telehealth in California, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Canada. You are warmly invited you to share in the amazing possibilities of psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can be instrumental in recovery from challenges of mind and heart including: depression, anxiety, trauma, finding purpose, life transitions, and many more. It can make heartbreak understandable, tolerable, and even growth-producing. It can provide the foundation for creating new healthier relationships based on respect, trust, compromise, and compassion. It can take an ordinary life and make it extraordinarily rich and purposeful.
Telehealth in California, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Canada. You are warmly invited you to share in the amazing possibilities of psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can be instrumental in recovery from challenges of mind and heart including: depression, anxiety, trauma, finding purpose, life transitions, and many more. It can make heartbreak understandable, tolerable, and even growth-producing. It can provide the foundation for creating new healthier relationships based on respect, trust, compromise, and compassion. It can take an ordinary life and make it extraordinarily rich and purposeful.
(442) 239-1174 View (442) 239-1174
Photo of Frankie John, MA, LMHCA, YTT, Counselor
Frankie John
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, YTT
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
My purpose in life is to have a positive impact on people's lives. It brings me tremendous joy to uplift people around me. As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients on their journey to live their lives to their full potential. I am committed to showing up and supporting my clients to learn about themselves, heal, and grow. Together, we can discover what it is that holds you back and no longer serves you. We will explore how to redirect your energy to harvest more joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
My purpose in life is to have a positive impact on people's lives. It brings me tremendous joy to uplift people around me. As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients on their journey to live their lives to their full potential. I am committed to showing up and supporting my clients to learn about themselves, heal, and grow. Together, we can discover what it is that holds you back and no longer serves you. We will explore how to redirect your energy to harvest more joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
(425) 777-7745 View (425) 777-7745
Photo of Michael Andrew Buchert, MPS, ATR-BC, LMHC, LCAT, Counselor
Michael Andrew Buchert
Counselor, MPS, ATR-BC, LMHC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I believe that our lives are guided by a few simple truths: we all long to be free to play, make things, and be seen by and connected to the world around us. By activating your own, unique creative potential and personal strengths, I believe that you can tap into your innate wisdom to create harmonious, lasting, and fulfilling relationships at home, at work, and with yourself. In our work together, we will utilize an intersectional framework to explore how the many facets of your cultural identity impact you, and use an array of both verbal and non-verbal modalities to help you achieve your goals.
I believe that our lives are guided by a few simple truths: we all long to be free to play, make things, and be seen by and connected to the world around us. By activating your own, unique creative potential and personal strengths, I believe that you can tap into your innate wisdom to create harmonious, lasting, and fulfilling relationships at home, at work, and with yourself. In our work together, we will utilize an intersectional framework to explore how the many facets of your cultural identity impact you, and use an array of both verbal and non-verbal modalities to help you achieve your goals.
(206) 717-8676 View (206) 717-8676
Photo of Michelle Newton - Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP, Counselor
Aspire Behavioral Health, Michelle Newton
Counselor, MA, MFT, LMHC, CMHS, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". With over 18 years in the field, I am an experienced clinician. Challenges in your relationship as a couple, dealing with an explosive child or teenager, depression, anxiety, trauma, and struggling to have a healthier, happier relationship as a couple, family or individual? Here's where you can take your first step. There is hope and things can change. I am a down-to-earth therapist with a warm and caring nature. I provide an empathetic and safe place where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.
(360) 633-2300 View (360) 633-2300
Photo of Jessica Morrison, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Jessica Morrison
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
Not accepting new clients
I use modalities such as play, art, mindfulness, games, identity development, & emotional skills to help your child see their strengths, problem solve challenges while incorporating a variety of coping skills.
I am passionate about helping YA/Adult clients explore ADHD &/or Autisms from a nurodivers affirming lens & the impact of later in life diagnoses (the “ohh that’s why that was so hard for me” moments). If you are experiencing life transitions (heading to college, becoming a parent, loss of a loved one), want to develop coping skills to manage Anxiety/Depression, or process trauma. Using mindfulness, creativity, & a bit of humor I work to support you in connecting to the wide range of feelings life brings while honoring your identity, passions, & strengths! I am trained in Trauma Focused CBT, Satir Family Therapy, & Liberation Psy.
I use modalities such as play, art, mindfulness, games, identity development, & emotional skills to help your child see their strengths, problem solve challenges while incorporating a variety of coping skills.
I am passionate about helping YA/Adult clients explore ADHD &/or Autisms from a nurodivers affirming lens & the impact of later in life diagnoses (the “ohh that’s why that was so hard for me” moments). If you are experiencing life transitions (heading to college, becoming a parent, loss of a loved one), want to develop coping skills to manage Anxiety/Depression, or process trauma. Using mindfulness, creativity, & a bit of humor I work to support you in connecting to the wide range of feelings life brings while honoring your identity, passions, & strengths! I am trained in Trauma Focused CBT, Satir Family Therapy, & Liberation Psy.
(360) 732-8408 View (360) 732-8408
Photo of Laurie Tsutakawa, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Laurie Tsutakawa
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Central District, Seattle, WA 98122
Not accepting new clients
Are you overwhelmed? Struggling with anxiety, depression or grief? That life is too hard? Consistently frustrated that things you want don't happen? I'm here to help you untangle those stressors, so you can move forward into the life you deserve. Together we'll take an in-depth look at causes and triggers to find solutions that are logical and practical.
Are you overwhelmed? Struggling with anxiety, depression or grief? That life is too hard? Consistently frustrated that things you want don't happen? I'm here to help you untangle those stressors, so you can move forward into the life you deserve. Together we'll take an in-depth look at causes and triggers to find solutions that are logical and practical.
(206) 800-7411 View (206) 800-7411

See more therapy options for Central District, Seattle

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.