Art Therapy in West Seattle, Seattle, WA

Photo of Anne W Taylor, LMHC, LPC, ATR, Counselor
Anne W Taylor
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
Recognizing the complexity of each individual’s needs and circumstances I employ an eclectic range of strength based, trauma informed therapy approaches including Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Brainspotting.
I believe that every individual possesses their own unique strengths and knowledge that can be leveraged to overcome challenges and navigate life transitions. I take an integrative, trauma informed mindfulness-based approach, to empower you to be your own change agent for creating sustainable optimum emotional and spiritual well-being.
Recognizing the complexity of each individual’s needs and circumstances I employ an eclectic range of strength based, trauma informed therapy approaches including Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Brainspotting.
I believe that every individual possesses their own unique strengths and knowledge that can be leveraged to overcome challenges and navigate life transitions. I take an integrative, trauma informed mindfulness-based approach, to empower you to be your own change agent for creating sustainable optimum emotional and spiritual well-being.
(206) 445-7988 View (206) 445-7988
Photo of Jasmine Nicole McCarthy, MA, NCC, LMHCA, MHP, Counselor
Jasmine Nicole McCarthy
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with young adults, kids, teens, families, and groups through an eclectic person-centered approach utilizing modalities such as somatic, CBT, art, motivational interviewing, + more.
I work with clients to process trauma, emotions, and life stressors; cope with and ease symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and post-traumatic stress and expand their window of tolerance/what they are able to tolerate; rewire thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and thereby one’s environment to align with their authentic truth and desires; define and draw boundaries; and identify core beliefs. I love to help women create a life in alignment with their menstrual cycle (intentional scheduling, eating, intimacy, and socializing for optimal energy functioning), as well as help all people structure and deepen their spiritual path.
I specialize in working with young adults, kids, teens, families, and groups through an eclectic person-centered approach utilizing modalities such as somatic, CBT, art, motivational interviewing, + more.
I work with clients to process trauma, emotions, and life stressors; cope with and ease symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and post-traumatic stress and expand their window of tolerance/what they are able to tolerate; rewire thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and thereby one’s environment to align with their authentic truth and desires; define and draw boundaries; and identify core beliefs. I love to help women create a life in alignment with their menstrual cycle (intentional scheduling, eating, intimacy, and socializing for optimal energy functioning), as well as help all people structure and deepen their spiritual path.
(206) 759-2244 View (206) 759-2244
Photo of Valorie Johnson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valorie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
I have created a safe space, supplied with art materials, therapeutic games and activities, and a comfortable, private waiting room.
Hello and welcome to my practice! My approach to therapy with you will be a collaborative process to help you frame problems not only in a personal context, but also in a social and cultural context. We all possess resilience and have many resources within us, some not yet realized. There are times in life when you may need a caring professional to walk with you on a journey toward a more peaceful, healthy, integrated self. My office is cozy and conveniently located in the Alaska Junction of West Seattle, with handicap access and 2 hour free parking.
I have created a safe space, supplied with art materials, therapeutic games and activities, and a comfortable, private waiting room.
Hello and welcome to my practice! My approach to therapy with you will be a collaborative process to help you frame problems not only in a personal context, but also in a social and cultural context. We all possess resilience and have many resources within us, some not yet realized. There are times in life when you may need a caring professional to walk with you on a journey toward a more peaceful, healthy, integrated self. My office is cozy and conveniently located in the Alaska Junction of West Seattle, with handicap access and 2 hour free parking.
(206) 489-3811 View (206) 489-3811
Photo of Wendy Nystrom, MA, LMHC, CMHS, SMMHS, Counselor
Wendy Nystrom
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, SMMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
These include Art, Music and Drama Therapies, Poetry and Writing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic (body) work, Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Mindfulness work.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in both individual and family therapy. I work well with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, those facing life transitions or grief and loss. I have recently published an eBook on anxiety for teens, But Breathing Doesn't Help! Unlocking Teen Anxiety by Understanding Your Body, which can be found on Amazon, or for direct purchase at https://wendynystrom.selz.com/
These include Art, Music and Drama Therapies, Poetry and Writing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic (body) work, Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, and Mindfulness work.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in both individual and family therapy. I work well with clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, those facing life transitions or grief and loss. I have recently published an eBook on anxiety for teens, But Breathing Doesn't Help! Unlocking Teen Anxiety by Understanding Your Body, which can be found on Amazon, or for direct purchase at https://wendynystrom.selz.com/
(206) 785-1985 View (206) 785-1985
Photo of Karlie Markendorf, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Karlie Markendorf
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
Waitlist for new clients
Art Therapy involves creating art, often pictures, to describe situations or feelings that may be difficult to verbalize.
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
Art Therapy involves creating art, often pictures, to describe situations or feelings that may be difficult to verbalize.
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(206) 557-6657 View (206) 557-6657
Photo of Maite Andrea Imaz, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maite Andrea Imaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience & training in Mindfulness-Based Practices, Somatic Therapy and Expressive Art Therapy to integrate creative art modalities for embodied transformation.
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
I have extensive experience & training in Mindfulness-Based Practices, Somatic Therapy and Expressive Art Therapy to integrate creative art modalities for embodied transformation.
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
(206) 207-8798 View (206) 207-8798
Photo of Anna Jannack, BFA, MA, LMHC, AT, Counselor
Anna Jannack
Counselor, BFA, MA, LMHC, AT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
The tools I use to help you include: EMDR, talk therapy, Integrative Mental Health, and art.
Have you been searching for a therapist but haven't been able to find one with whom you feel a strong connection? Have you been feeling like your life lacks meaning or direction? Are you being overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, irritability, emptiness or negativity? Are you wondering who that person is staring back at you in the mirror every day? Finding a therapist can be a challenging task. You want to find someone with whom you feel safe and can trust.
The tools I use to help you include: EMDR, talk therapy, Integrative Mental Health, and art.
Have you been searching for a therapist but haven't been able to find one with whom you feel a strong connection? Have you been feeling like your life lacks meaning or direction? Are you being overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, irritability, emptiness or negativity? Are you wondering who that person is staring back at you in the mirror every day? Finding a therapist can be a challenging task. You want to find someone with whom you feel safe and can trust.
(425) 441-3364 View (425) 441-3364
Photo of Sha'ari Garfinkel - Certified Emdr Practitioner, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, FAMI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sha'ari Garfinkel - Certified Emdr Practitioner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, FAMI
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
Towards this end, I use behavioral activation, cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization & reprogramming (certified in EMDR), and music/art therapy.
Underneath the disappointments and pain, you have more strength and wholeness than you may realize. It takes real courage to break out of our old ways of doing things into new thinking and behaving. I admire and respect anyone who has the willingness to start on this journey and am there to support you through that process, even if you don't know what needs to change. Together we will navigate these uncharted waters, bringing you closer to the fullest and most satisfying life possible for you. NOTE: Remote therapy ONLY (including EMDR) in Idaho, North Carolina & Kansas. Remote & in-person therapy available in Washington State.
Towards this end, I use behavioral activation, cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization & reprogramming (certified in EMDR), and music/art therapy.
Underneath the disappointments and pain, you have more strength and wholeness than you may realize. It takes real courage to break out of our old ways of doing things into new thinking and behaving. I admire and respect anyone who has the willingness to start on this journey and am there to support you through that process, even if you don't know what needs to change. Together we will navigate these uncharted waters, bringing you closer to the fullest and most satisfying life possible for you. NOTE: Remote therapy ONLY (including EMDR) in Idaho, North Carolina & Kansas. Remote & in-person therapy available in Washington State.
(206) 900-8567 View (206) 900-8567
Photo of Courtney Corbit, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney Corbit
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
Combining art therapy and evidence based modalities, we will explore your part of the systems in your life and your lived experience.
Your inner thoughts and emotions are causing you to feel at times, hopeless or overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, your partner or those around you. Your sense of self becomes dysregulated and you are off balance. You have low energy, diminished self-confidence, feeling isolated from family and friends. The future, and the positive parts of your life, are hard to see. You know something doesn't feel right and you want to feel better, want to express yourself and get onto the path of healing.
Combining art therapy and evidence based modalities, we will explore your part of the systems in your life and your lived experience.
Your inner thoughts and emotions are causing you to feel at times, hopeless or overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself, your partner or those around you. Your sense of self becomes dysregulated and you are off balance. You have low energy, diminished self-confidence, feeling isolated from family and friends. The future, and the positive parts of your life, are hard to see. You know something doesn't feel right and you want to feel better, want to express yourself and get onto the path of healing.
(253) 215-8863 View (253) 215-8863
Photo of Clare Wheeler, MA, LMHC, ATR-P, Counselor
Clare Wheeler
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
This is why, in addition to regular talk therapy, I also offer Art Therapy and EMDR.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help you find this place. If you're not feeling at home with yourself right now, the question is not "what's wrong with me?", but rather, "what happened to me?". There is a reason you're struggling the way you are, and we'll curiously and compassionately look for these answers together, while developing ways for you to tend to your body and mind. It's not always an easy journey, but it's the most important one.
This is why, in addition to regular talk therapy, I also offer Art Therapy and EMDR.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help you find this place. If you're not feeling at home with yourself right now, the question is not "what's wrong with me?", but rather, "what happened to me?". There is a reason you're struggling the way you are, and we'll curiously and compassionately look for these answers together, while developing ways for you to tend to your body and mind. It's not always an easy journey, but it's the most important one.
(360) 218-7190 View (360) 218-7190
Photo of Laura Stone, LMHC WA, LPC OR, Counselor
Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98126
Welcome to a space where you are empowered to navigate the depths of your experiences and emerge transformed. My clients are artists, writers, adoptees, neurodivergent folx, and others ready to embark on the Work. We co-create tailored therapy to resolve traumatic stress, nurture attachments, and cultivate ways of being that honor Self. Through IFS, EMDR, Safe & Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy & Psychedelic Integration, we develop a comprehensive approach to healing and embodying new ways of being. I also offer adoptive parent support on attachment, trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity, & separation.
Welcome to a space where you are empowered to navigate the depths of your experiences and emerge transformed. My clients are artists, writers, adoptees, neurodivergent folx, and others ready to embark on the Work. We co-create tailored therapy to resolve traumatic stress, nurture attachments, and cultivate ways of being that honor Self. Through IFS, EMDR, Safe & Sound Protocol, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy & Psychedelic Integration, we develop a comprehensive approach to healing and embodying new ways of being. I also offer adoptive parent support on attachment, trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity, & separation.
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895
Photo of Christina Tobie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Tobie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
It takes tremendous courage to work on yourself. Change is hard. While I can’t do this work for you, I will walk beside you. You will have my guidance and support as you learn how to examine your own actions, choices, and relationships. I love helping my clients figure out what they want and how to make it happen. Let’s work together to find, care for, and celebrate you; as you are, have been, and would like to be.
It takes tremendous courage to work on yourself. Change is hard. While I can’t do this work for you, I will walk beside you. You will have my guidance and support as you learn how to examine your own actions, choices, and relationships. I love helping my clients figure out what they want and how to make it happen. Let’s work together to find, care for, and celebrate you; as you are, have been, and would like to be.
(206) 202-1804 View (206) 202-1804
Photo of Kenya McIntyre, CMHC, Intern, LPC Intern
Kenya McIntyre
LPC Intern, CMHC, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
Hi! I am so excited to meet you! I believe that ultimately you know what is best for you. It is my job to help you figure that out. You will soon learn I get excited easily, especially when trying to get to know someone so I will ask you a lot of questions, always stay up to date on your life, and I don't love awkward silence. I bring diverse perspectives to my counseling approach. I believe that when we feel stuck in certain situations, we just need an outside person to see things a different way. That is what I am here for :) One of my favorite things to do is make order out of chaos.
Hi! I am so excited to meet you! I believe that ultimately you know what is best for you. It is my job to help you figure that out. You will soon learn I get excited easily, especially when trying to get to know someone so I will ask you a lot of questions, always stay up to date on your life, and I don't love awkward silence. I bring diverse perspectives to my counseling approach. I believe that when we feel stuck in certain situations, we just need an outside person to see things a different way. That is what I am here for :) One of my favorite things to do is make order out of chaos.
(253) 447-5831 View (253) 447-5831
Photo of Hannah Knapp, MA, LMHC
Hannah Knapp
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
Asking for help demonstrates an incredible amount of bravery & resilience. Many of us are conditioned to believe that we must stuff our pain deep inside and move on. Not only can this be deeply harmful to our psyche, our bodies also hold trauma & pain in such a way that can impact our health at large. My hope is to offer a safe space for you to navigate the story of your life, past and present, and begin experiencing homeostasis of mind, body & soul. I am passionate about body liberation, self-acceptance work, and divesting from carceral mental health systems & methods.
Asking for help demonstrates an incredible amount of bravery & resilience. Many of us are conditioned to believe that we must stuff our pain deep inside and move on. Not only can this be deeply harmful to our psyche, our bodies also hold trauma & pain in such a way that can impact our health at large. My hope is to offer a safe space for you to navigate the story of your life, past and present, and begin experiencing homeostasis of mind, body & soul. I am passionate about body liberation, self-acceptance work, and divesting from carceral mental health systems & methods.
View
Photo of Hanna Maple, Counselor
Hanna Maple
Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
Hi there and welcome! My name is Hanna Maple. I am so excited that you are here! I feel so honored to be a consideration in your mental health journey. :) As we navigate through life's many paths, we often encounter barriers to relationships with others and ourselves. Regardless of the situation, I am here to support you, listen to you, and help you reach your goals. You are not alone!
Hi there and welcome! My name is Hanna Maple. I am so excited that you are here! I feel so honored to be a consideration in your mental health journey. :) As we navigate through life's many paths, we often encounter barriers to relationships with others and ourselves. Regardless of the situation, I am here to support you, listen to you, and help you reach your goals. You are not alone!
(206) 210-2664 View (206) 210-2664
Photo of Stefanie Sorenson - No Stress No Stigma, MSW, LSWAIC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
No Stress No Stigma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
One of Stefanie’s core beliefs is that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are empowered to be the leaders in their own care. She meets clients where they are at, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Stefanie believes in tailoring therapy to each individual's unique needs and goals,and works closely with clients to develop personalized goals. Stefanie offers individual sessions to clients and she is a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and DBT skills
One of Stefanie’s core beliefs is that therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are empowered to be the leaders in their own care. She meets clients where they are at, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Stefanie believes in tailoring therapy to each individual's unique needs and goals,and works closely with clients to develop personalized goals. Stefanie offers individual sessions to clients and she is a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and DBT skills
(206) 752-5793 View (206) 752-5793
Photo of Shuyang Liu, LHMC, MA, Counselor
Shuyang Liu
Counselor, LHMC, MA
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bicultural and a bilingual immigrant therapist with a passion for supporting and empowering people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and other marginalized groups, and my personal and professional goals include disrupting the oppression and creating an equitable and safe world for all. I practice under ACT and Person-Centered framework, and value establishing a therapeutic relationship that's based on trust, which is safe and warm to hold your emotions and experiences--I believe in the uniqueness for every client, and am dedicated to view the development of each client which is reflective of your own goals and values.
I am a bicultural and a bilingual immigrant therapist with a passion for supporting and empowering people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and other marginalized groups, and my personal and professional goals include disrupting the oppression and creating an equitable and safe world for all. I practice under ACT and Person-Centered framework, and value establishing a therapeutic relationship that's based on trust, which is safe and warm to hold your emotions and experiences--I believe in the uniqueness for every client, and am dedicated to view the development of each client which is reflective of your own goals and values.
(206) 752-3522 View (206) 752-3522
Photo of Alice Allen-Redfern, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice Allen-Redfern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98106
I specialize in supporting those affected by chronic and progressive conditions that affect the brain; this can include, but is not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, related Dementias, Parkinson's, Stroke, PPA, Lewy Body, Frontotemporal Degeneration, Huntington's Disease. I work with those diagnosed, as well as their loved ones & caregivers. My support spans the whole journey; from recently diagnosed, into the later stages. Additionally, I offer guidance and navigation for those experiencing aging-related issues. I am available for sessions in-person, virtually, or through home-visits in select instances.
I specialize in supporting those affected by chronic and progressive conditions that affect the brain; this can include, but is not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, related Dementias, Parkinson's, Stroke, PPA, Lewy Body, Frontotemporal Degeneration, Huntington's Disease. I work with those diagnosed, as well as their loved ones & caregivers. My support spans the whole journey; from recently diagnosed, into the later stages. Additionally, I offer guidance and navigation for those experiencing aging-related issues. I am available for sessions in-person, virtually, or through home-visits in select instances.
(206) 627-4525 View (206) 627-4525
Photo of Amanda Rausch - Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Rausch LMFT, PLLC NoStressNoStigma.com
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AAMFT , RYT, BH-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98116
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
No matter what you are going through, know that I am here to listen, support you and help you figure it all out! Welcome to the newest generation of self care and mental health- this is easy, accessible, no-stress, stigma free help for whatever you are going through. Feel free to wear your sweatpants, sit on the couch and have a session on your phone or lap top. Prefer in person? No problem, come visit my office in a charming 1900's Craftsman home near the Junction in West Seattle! Check out www.nostressnostigma.com for details!
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Photo of Hannah Knapp, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Hannah Knapp
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Seattle, Seattle, WA 98136
I have experience serving children, adolescents, and families in varied mental health settings. These have included working at an inpatient behavioral health hospital, supporting adults & youth with eating disorders, and providing individualized therapy in my private practice. Amongst a long list of various jobs, I also have lived experience with an eating disorder, as a full spectrum doula, and as a caregiver of children. I am passionate about helping people find their voice and developing a liberating relationship with themselves.
I have experience serving children, adolescents, and families in varied mental health settings. These have included working at an inpatient behavioral health hospital, supporting adults & youth with eating disorders, and providing individualized therapy in my private practice. Amongst a long list of various jobs, I also have lived experience with an eating disorder, as a full spectrum doula, and as a caregiver of children. I am passionate about helping people find their voice and developing a liberating relationship with themselves.
(206) 202-5296 View (206) 202-5296
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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.