Art Therapy

Art therapy is a form of creative expressive used as therapy to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Art therapists are typically trained in both therapy and art, making them uniquely qualified to use the arts for mental health healing. Art therapy helps clients express themselves and can be useful for everything from managing addictions to improving self-esteem. Art therapy is for everyone, but can particularly benefit children facing issues such as learning disabilities or behavioral disorders. Sound interesting? Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s qualified art therapists today. No prior art experience or talent necessary!

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Meet the specialists

 

“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.” — Georgia O’Keefe

— CAROL J. STRAND, Art Therapist in Richfield, MN

Art therapy is the approach in which I have the most training and experience. Art therapy is a way of delivering and processing therapy within the context of creation. I studied at the Drexel Graduate Art Therapy program, and have received my Board Certification.

— Christina Marrero, Licensed Professional Counselor in Flourtown, PA
 

Art is a medium that allows us to express ourselves and more abstract thoughts without the need of words. It's something that I like to integrate into my in-person sessions whenever possible to allow clients the freedom to explore complex thoughts and emotions non-judgementally.

— Peter Lachman, Social Worker in Chicago, IL

I am a licensed creative art therapist so I always offer creative interventions to any client willing to explore art as a method for healing. Art therapy can be used as a non-verbal way to get out thoughts and feelings, in general anxiety reduction just from the process, and in targeting specific challenges to work through. Art therapy is not about creating great master pieces or even being a great artist. Rather, it is the healing benefits you can receive through the process of creating art.

— Nicole Benedict, Creative Art Therapist in Rochester, NY
 

I am a Registered Art Therapist with a Masters degree in art therapy from George Washington University. I have extensive experience as a trauma-focused art therapist and have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, many of whom identify as trauma survivors. I believe that art is innately human and provides a safe space for individuals to initiate growth and change.

— Adrienne Iannazzo, Art Therapist in Arlington, VA

Nationally board-certified art therapist from the ATCB.

— Kerry Jessup, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
 

I believe that when we are able to express ourselves creatively through art/music/dance and more, we are able to begin healing. Art can be a great tool when working with kids and teens as well as it gives us a way to connect and communicate with more than words can provide. I personally create and engage in creative activities in sessions with clients to normalize this as a tool. I have over 5 years experience using creative therapies in practice.

— Kim Lycan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Richland, WA

We specialize in clay art therapy but can incorporate other art therapies as well. Within the realm of art therapy, clay has been seen to awaken creativity, foster socialization, reduce negative mood and anxiety, and aid in healing from trauma. We partner with Chris, our life coach/therapy assistant who is also a professional ceramics artist. We incorporate the pottery wheel and hand-building exercises. No judgment here, just a space for you to be you.

— Colorado Experiential Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
 

Art therapy is beneficial in supporting increased self-esteem, emotional regulation and awareness, and identity exploration. I love to use art materials and art-making in the therapeutic space to support clients in understanding and expressing their emotions. Through art making and creative expression, you can interact with your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a different way than traditional talk-based therapy.

— Steph Tabor, Therapist in Oak Park, IL

Sometimes words aren't enough to convey what you want to say. I've found art therapy to be helpful in allowing clients to express themselves in more authentic ways. Through drawing, sculpting, even playing games (such as Dungeons & Dragons) we can dive deeper past what is just said.

— Lance Madow, Associate Professional Counselor in Decatur, GA
 

I am a licensed and board certified art psychotherapist. My training allows me the ability to conduct talk psychotherapy, but also allows for art therapy additions as well. Even remotely, art making can be part of our session. Some people identify art making in session as soothing, and enjoy sharing their work at the end of session. Some people enjoy working after session with a specific art intervention, to help continue processing. Art making can be a great addition to our work.

— Emily Brenner, Art Therapist in New York, NY

Art holds no judgements. It can give new perspective to discuss difficult or troubling issues.

— Sharon Aguilar, Art Therapist in Dallas, TX
 

I am a Registered Art Therapist with a Masters degree in art therapy from George Washington University. I have extensive experience as a trauma-focused art therapist and have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, many of whom identify as trauma survivors. I believe that art is innately human and provides a safe space for individuals to initiate growth and change.

— Adrienne Iannazzo, Art Therapist in Arlington, VA

I specialized in Art Therapy during my Master's program and I am currently a Registered Art Therapist. Through art therapy, clients can explore their feelings, develop self-awareness, manage stress, and improve communication skills.

— Anna Wolen, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
 

Art Therapy offers a unique avenue to explore and address issues that are sometimes too difficult to verbally articulate. In sessions, we will use art making as a way to explore and view challenges or issues that are impacting you. You don't need to be "artistic" or even have experience with art, to gain healing benefits of art therapy. I will guide you by providing a specific theme or a particular material, that will help us work towards your goals.

— Catherine Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beaverton, OR

Art therapy allows you to access parts of yourself in a creative way, unlocking insights through visual expression. Using modalities like drawing, painting, collaging, sculpture, and sand tray, you can give form to complex emotions, unconscious material, past experiences, relationships, dreams, spiritual aspects of self - bringing them to light through the art process. As your therapist, I help you interpret the themes, symbols and metaphors that emerge, deepening self-understanding.

— Bee Cook, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA
 

My whole life has revolved around art and the potential for creativity to heal. I have an MA in Art Therapy.

— Mariah Dancing, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA

I have completed my Master's degree in Art Therapy from Wayne State University and am near completion of the requirements to be an ATR- Art Therapist Registered.

— Alison Maples, Counselor in Troy, MI