Our Services

Art therapy is a practice that focuses on the relationship between psychology and art, and involves the use of creative techniques to help people express themselves and gain greater self-awareness. With the guidance of a credentialed art therapist, engaging in this type of therapy can lead to a better understanding of oneself, including one’s feelings and behaviors, as well as assist in developing essential life skills.

Art therapy is founded on the belief that self-expression through artistic creation has therapeutic value. It can also be a wonderful aid in self-expression when one finds it difficult to verbally articulate their feelings. Art therapists are trained to understand the roles that various art media can play in the therapeutic process. They use a variety of media in their practice, including, but not limited to painting, drawing, watercolor, collage, sculpting, and more! Art therapy integrates traditional talk therapy and some form of visual arts as a specific, stand-alone form of therapy, but it can also be used in combination with other types of therapy.

You don’t have to be “good” at art to benefit from art therapy, and you don’t have to be a child, either! In fact, anyone can do art therapy! Art therapists are trained to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups in diverse settings. Examples include in hospitals, schools, senior communities, and crisis facilities, or via telehealth. Art Therapy has been shown to help reduce symptoms for a variety of illnesses such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, interpersonal relationships, and more! According to a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, less than an hour of creative activity can reduce stress and have a positive effect on one’s mental health, regardless of artistic experience or talent.

People often ask how art therapy is different from an art class. While art classes are often focused on specific techniques to produce a certain outcome, art therapy is more focused on the process of self-expression. Art Therapy assists participants in making sense of their inner world, while an art class often aims to reproduce images of one’s surroundings. There are no grades given in art therapy, and art therapists often welcome explorative, messy artwork under the belief that there is no such thing as “bad” art!

Play therapy is a specialized form of treatment for children. It is most effective for those who are not able to participate in traditional talk therapy due to their age or developmental level. Traditional play therapy rooms are equipped with specially identified toys, such as puppets, doll houses, sand tray tables, games, books, etc. in order to facilitate expressive play. Play therapy can also be facilitated virtually via telehealth for older children. The therapist may follow the child’s lead, letting them naturally gravitate towards the different toys or materials that interest them. Alternatively, the therapist may introduce more specific activities designed to help the child express themselves more fully.

A child naturally explores emotions and learns about their environment through play. Giving children an opportunity to explore and discover in a neutral setting with a trained therapist can help children process their own emotions and struggles. Play therapy can be beneficial for children who struggle with anxiety, have been through traumatic events, have been through a recent transition, or are exhibiting behavioral challenges. Play therapy can help by assisting in emotional expression, improving communication skills, teaching coping skills, encouraging imagination, and developing self-esteem- all through play.

Raising little ones is hard work. Working with a therapist who is trained in child development, parenting strategies, and mental health concerns can provide insight and support. Counseling for parents can utilize a variety of tools which draw from several evidence- based practices such as Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), The Strengthening Families Program, and the Incredible Years Program. In Parenting sessions, you will learn how to handle difficult and frustrating situations with your child by combining the best practices in discipline while fostering connections and positive communication between you and your child.