What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a mental health profession in which a Board-Certified, Master’s Level Clinician works with clients using art materials, the creative process, and their creations to explore emotions, reconcile emotional conflicts, develop self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. Art Therapists strive to improve/restore a client’s functioning and his or her sense of personal well-being. Art Therapy practice requires knowledge of visual art (drawing, painting, sculpture, and other art forms) and the creative process, as well as of human development, psychological, and counseling theories and techniques.
Here is a link to a brief video on creativity, the brain, and trauma resolution:
youtu.be/aoMwS_0PXOU
youtu.be/aoMwS_0PXOU
Who is Art Therapy For?
Those who are affected by
(but not limited to) :
-ADHD
-Neurological & Developmental Diversity
-Anxiety & Depression
-Grief & Loss
-Trauma
-Difficult Transitions
-Family Dynamics
-Aging, Dementia, & Life Review
-School/Academics
-Parenting
-Stress -Unresolved Issues
-Limiting Thoughts, Actions & Beliefs
Verbally and non-verbally expressive people benefit.
NO PRIOR ART EXPERIENCE OR “SKILL” IS NEEDED.
Why attend groups? What can I expect?
Groups vary based on age, developmental level, and therapeutic needs. Beginning with mindfulness activities such as breathing techniques, guided relaxation/meditation, aromatherapy, yoga poses, cooperative games, experiential learning activities, and or discussions, participants are offered a variety of materials to build, sculpt, paint, draw, sew, collage, and or write about what needs to be expressed and what's going on inside.
Art is an extension of the self and can be very meaningful, powerful, and a cathartic way to convey what words sometimes can't. Processing and exploring personal metaphors can be pivotal in overcoming challenges, and there is also beauty and sacredness in silence.
In children's groups, we learn, practice, and reinforce skills that are valuable across the lifetime. Neuro-typical, neuro-diverse, and every child in between can benefit because we will always need to cope with difficulty throughout our lives. Art Therapy can help develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and social confidence. This will look different for each individual person.
Every group is unique, ever- changing, dynamic, and alive. Groups can help
Behavior & Emotional Regulation/Management
-Self-Expression
-Coping Skills
-Self-Compassion
-Developmental Support
-Healthy Empowerment
-Social Skills
-Effective Relationship Skills
-Personal Growth & Insight
-Healthy Boundaries
-Hope
Wellness can be a shared journey.
https://nextsteptherapy.ie/groups/group-psychotherapy/yaloms-therapeutic-factors-2/
Groups vary based on age, developmental level, and therapeutic needs. Beginning with mindfulness activities such as breathing techniques, guided relaxation/meditation, aromatherapy, yoga poses, cooperative games, experiential learning activities, and or discussions, participants are offered a variety of materials to build, sculpt, paint, draw, sew, collage, and or write about what needs to be expressed and what's going on inside.
Art is an extension of the self and can be very meaningful, powerful, and a cathartic way to convey what words sometimes can't. Processing and exploring personal metaphors can be pivotal in overcoming challenges, and there is also beauty and sacredness in silence.
In children's groups, we learn, practice, and reinforce skills that are valuable across the lifetime. Neuro-typical, neuro-diverse, and every child in between can benefit because we will always need to cope with difficulty throughout our lives. Art Therapy can help develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and social confidence. This will look different for each individual person.
Every group is unique, ever- changing, dynamic, and alive. Groups can help
Behavior & Emotional Regulation/Management
-Self-Expression
-Coping Skills
-Self-Compassion
-Developmental Support
-Healthy Empowerment
-Social Skills
-Effective Relationship Skills
-Personal Growth & Insight
-Healthy Boundaries
-Hope
Wellness can be a shared journey.
https://nextsteptherapy.ie/groups/group-psychotherapy/yaloms-therapeutic-factors-2/
Private Sessions
Private 60 minute therapy sessions are available for more in-depth exploration. I currently am accepting new 1:1 clients and work as a primary or adjunctive therapist. Treatment is tailored to meet individual needs and I use a variety of approaches, not limited to behavioral, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-focused, object relations, psycho-dynamic, developmental, and more. Sessions are available weekly, bi-monthly, or as an occasional visit to explore goals and action plans to supplement group attendance. Parents of children attending group sessions are encouraged to schedule a 30 or 60 minute private session approximately every 6 weeks to review progress, develop wellness plans, and to discuss questions and concerns. Private family sessions are available to help strengthen family bonds, work through difficult issues, increase communication, and to explore dynamics.
Art Therapy in Schools, nursing homes, developmental & day treatment centers, hospitals, and other facilities:
Contracted Art Therapy services are available in private facilities such as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, mental health facilities, drug rehab centers, corporate team-building events, Girl/Boy Scout projects, etc. Please contact for more information.
