HELP CENTER

WHAT IS ART THERAPY?

Art therapy practices vary depending on the needs of the client and the setting. The basic principle is combining therapeutic techniques and theory with creative expression and exploration.  

“Art Therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. Art Therapy, facilitated by a professional art therapist, effectively supports personal and relational treatment goals as well as community concerns. Art Therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change.”

American Art Therapy Association

There is no artistic talent or skill set required for art therapy, only an openness and willingness to try art materials and processes for self expression, understanding, and exploration. Art processes, facilitated by the art therapist, are used to work towards therapeutic goals, for calming and meditative uses, and to support self -empowerment and agency. Art therapy can be used as a primary or a complimentary form of therapy.

WHAT IS A SESSION LIKE?

An average therapy session will last for 55 minutes. First sessions will be used to discuss what brings you to therapy and determine if I am a good fit for your current needs. Subsequent sessions will use a combination of therapeutic techniques, art processes if applicable, and discussion to work towards collaboratively developed treatment goals. Duration and frequency of treatment will be determined based on client’s needs, goals, and schedule.