Art Therapy in San Diego, CA

Photo of Herb Schnabel 134453, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Herb Schnabel 134453
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I also use other methods such as mindfulness, play therapy, and art therapy to help clients access vulnerability.
I find myself very honored to be working as a therapist and helping those who have taken the brave and vulnerable step to engage in therapy. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have a special passion for providing affirmative care for those in this community. I additionally love working with couples, families, and those experiencing difficult life transitions such as trauma, grief, and gender transition.
I also use other methods such as mindfulness, play therapy, and art therapy to help clients access vulnerability.
I find myself very honored to be working as a therapist and helping those who have taken the brave and vulnerable step to engage in therapy. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have a special passion for providing affirmative care for those in this community. I additionally love working with couples, families, and those experiencing difficult life transitions such as trauma, grief, and gender transition.
(619) 404-5525 View (619) 404-5525
Photo of Berenice Vazquez Badillo, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Berenice Vazquez Badillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Through the creative use of art therapy and EMDR we can explore solutions and implement healing strategies than can help you achieve your goals, mend relationships and enable you to establish a deeper understanding and a loving connection to yourself.
Sometimes it becomes challenging managing the ebb and flow of life and we become isolated, stressed and overwhelmed. Our past wounds always seem to sneak up on us when we least expect. Life transitions can be difficult in that they take much adjustment and effort. There is such a pressing need to invest in yourself and in the building of healthy relationships. You need to spark the parts of yourself that harnests vitality and make life worth living. Investing in your mental health can reveal solutions as well as provide you skills that will last a lifetime. Whatever your need we can work together to find solutions.
Through the creative use of art therapy and EMDR we can explore solutions and implement healing strategies than can help you achieve your goals, mend relationships and enable you to establish a deeper understanding and a loving connection to yourself.
Sometimes it becomes challenging managing the ebb and flow of life and we become isolated, stressed and overwhelmed. Our past wounds always seem to sneak up on us when we least expect. Life transitions can be difficult in that they take much adjustment and effort. There is such a pressing need to invest in yourself and in the building of healthy relationships. You need to spark the parts of yourself that harnests vitality and make life worth living. Investing in your mental health can reveal solutions as well as provide you skills that will last a lifetime. Whatever your need we can work together to find solutions.
(619) 340-0529 View (619) 340-0529
Photo of Randy Buckley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randy Buckley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
I use a variety of treatment approaches: EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, directive and solution- focused therapy, and art therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, early childhood physical/sexual and emotional abuse, parenting, parent-child conflict, grief, relationship issues and divorce issues. I am currently only offering tele therapy. Online therapy can be offered in the comfort of your own home.
I use a variety of treatment approaches: EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, directive and solution- focused therapy, and art therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, teens, adults and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, early childhood physical/sexual and emotional abuse, parenting, parent-child conflict, grief, relationship issues and divorce issues. I am currently only offering tele therapy. Online therapy can be offered in the comfort of your own home.
(619) 432-6571 View (619) 432-6571
Photo of Julie Lynn Paavola, MA, LPCC, LMHC, ATR-BC
Julie Lynn Paavola
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
I specialize multiple modalities, including Art Therapy, a wonderful tool to explore thoughts and feelings difficult to describe verbally.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
I specialize multiple modalities, including Art Therapy, a wonderful tool to explore thoughts and feelings difficult to describe verbally.
Welcome to Creative Endeavors! I am here to support you in finding the healing potential within yourself. Just as our bodies heal from a cut, under the right conditions our psyche/soul can heal and thrive. It requires us to work together to foster meaning, purpose and new life through therapy which I call a "creative endeavor." Together we can form a compassionate partnership to explore who you are, your goals, hopes and dreams, in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(619) 329-9571 View (619) 329-9571
Photo of Reina Remy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reina Remy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Not accepting new clients
I have training in Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
I have training in Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I work collaboratively and creatively to help you/your child or teen identify the root causes underlying the current struggles and increase awareness of solutions in your lives. I use play/art techniques to explore thoughts and feelings, emphasize therapeutic experiments, and process traumas to help you/your child feel better and improve the quality of your lives. I have more than 20 years experience helping children, teens, adults, and parents with trauma, grief, anxiety, family conflicts, bipolar, ADHD, and depression, among other issues. I also love working with LGBTQ community, military families, twins, and parenting struggles.
(858) 215-1978 View (858) 215-1978
Photo of Jenn Eng, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenn Eng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
I’m also an ATR (registered art therapist) and while I don’t do art therapy with every client, those who are open to it have been able to experience how creativity can be healing.
Life transitions, both expected and unforeseen, can be challenging. If you're facing changes that feel overwhelming—whether that be a career shift, relational dynamics, or personal growth—and are looking for a way to process and adapt, my practice is here for you. It's important to me that my clients feel safe, understood, and their feelings validated.
I’m also an ATR (registered art therapist) and while I don’t do art therapy with every client, those who are open to it have been able to experience how creativity can be healing.
Life transitions, both expected and unforeseen, can be challenging. If you're facing changes that feel overwhelming—whether that be a career shift, relational dynamics, or personal growth—and are looking for a way to process and adapt, my practice is here for you. It's important to me that my clients feel safe, understood, and their feelings validated.
(858) 293-1065 View (858) 293-1065
Photo of Florence Malmgren - Oria Health and Wellness Inc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oria Health and Wellness Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
I am an Art Therapist.
I believe most of us find ourselves overwhelmed or struggling at some time in our lives. During those times it can be helpful to talk to someone who is encouraging, accepting and understanding of life's challenges. Therapy provides a private, safe, collaborative and warm environment to better understand and navigate difficult transitions or relationships. This journey becomes individualized based on personal goals, values and needs. I am committed to assisting clients develop adaptive coping skills, building on their own inner resources and strengths to live life to their greatest potential where healing, balance, and fulfillment are once again possible.
I am an Art Therapist.
I believe most of us find ourselves overwhelmed or struggling at some time in our lives. During those times it can be helpful to talk to someone who is encouraging, accepting and understanding of life's challenges. Therapy provides a private, safe, collaborative and warm environment to better understand and navigate difficult transitions or relationships. This journey becomes individualized based on personal goals, values and needs. I am committed to assisting clients develop adaptive coping skills, building on their own inner resources and strengths to live life to their greatest potential where healing, balance, and fulfillment are once again possible.
(858) 925-5885 View (858) 925-5885
Photo of Anne Marie Perkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Marie Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
(619) 369-1661 View (619) 369-1661
Photo of Jennifer York, LMFT, CBT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer York
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CBT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I love learning and have extensive education, training and experience: Licensed Psychotherapist since 2004, Certified Bioenergetic Therapist - CBT, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner - SEP and Certified in Art Therapy.
"Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." Rumi. I believe we build barriers as an attempt to protect ourselves from childhood and adult relational traumas however, these mind and body defenses are no longer necessary and block us from what we truly want in life; inadvertently causing more suffering than protection. The symptoms of these barriers manifest as depression, anxiety, addiction ,,, as well as physical illness.
I love learning and have extensive education, training and experience: Licensed Psychotherapist since 2004, Certified Bioenergetic Therapist - CBT, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner - SEP and Certified in Art Therapy.
"Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it." Rumi. I believe we build barriers as an attempt to protect ourselves from childhood and adult relational traumas however, these mind and body defenses are no longer necessary and block us from what we truly want in life; inadvertently causing more suffering than protection. The symptoms of these barriers manifest as depression, anxiety, addiction ,,, as well as physical illness.
(760) 512-8194 View (760) 512-8194
Photo of Shannon Jones - Shannon Jones - Holistic Therapy + Art Therapy, AMFT, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shannon Jones - Holistic Therapy + Art Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, AT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
Are you feeling lost? Stuck? Like there isn't solid ground under your feet? If you’ve made it here, I believe you have already started your journey towards personal growth. If you're looking for clarity, acceptance, and well-being, I'm here to help. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize a holistic and humanistic approach that incorporates mindfulness, somatic therapy, and art therapy.
Are you feeling lost? Stuck? Like there isn't solid ground under your feet? If you’ve made it here, I believe you have already started your journey towards personal growth. If you're looking for clarity, acceptance, and well-being, I'm here to help. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize a holistic and humanistic approach that incorporates mindfulness, somatic therapy, and art therapy.
(858) 257-0319 View (858) 257-0319
Photo of Jessica Adler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
(619) 304-1939 View (619) 304-1939
Photo of Anissa McNeil - Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic, PhD, LMFT, Psychologist
Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides psychological evaluations and therapy to kids, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, and art therapy. We are trauma specialists in informed therapy. Our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists and our social justice team are devoted to providing quality service and seeing you grow in the community.
Our Mental Health and Social Justice Clinic provides psychological evaluations and therapy to kids, teenagers, adults, and seniors. We provide trauma informed individual, couples, group, and family sessions including yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, and art therapy. We are trauma specialists in informed therapy. Our practice provides individual and group therapy services to survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our licensed and skilled team of therapists and our social justice team are devoted to providing quality service and seeing you grow in the community.
(619) 598-0698 View (619) 598-0698
Photo of Amanda Lance-Sexton, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lance-Sexton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92163
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a trained practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and am certified as an Art Therapist.
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
I'm a trained practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and am certified as an Art Therapist.
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
(619) 344-8532 View (619) 344-8532
Photo of Rabia Khara, MA, MS, MFT, PCC, RDT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rabia Khara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT, PCC, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92111
It is an art and a skill that I bring to my therapeutic approach.
Finding a therapist can be challenging because of that I am a conduit for hope and healing to you as your therapist. Therapy is a collaborative process that involves openness & receptivity founded on the desire to change for the better. It is within your reach. Sometimes life will throw a curveball and we find ourselves getting off track. That is where I step in and help you realign yourself to your true purpose in life and in the process of doing so new discoveries are made and new pathways are created. It is the stumbling upon, the revelations, the insights that help us grow and change. I am humbled to be a part of the process.
It is an art and a skill that I bring to my therapeutic approach.
Finding a therapist can be challenging because of that I am a conduit for hope and healing to you as your therapist. Therapy is a collaborative process that involves openness & receptivity founded on the desire to change for the better. It is within your reach. Sometimes life will throw a curveball and we find ourselves getting off track. That is where I step in and help you realign yourself to your true purpose in life and in the process of doing so new discoveries are made and new pathways are created. It is the stumbling upon, the revelations, the insights that help us grow and change. I am humbled to be a part of the process.
(424) 407-8687 View (424) 407-8687
Photo of Christina Brouwer, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christina Brouwer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I received a Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.
Hello, I'm Christina. I care deeply about my clients and try to create an affirming space for all. I specialize in working with families, children, teens, and young adults. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and people experiencing trauma disorders, anxiety, depression, adoption and attachment issues, behavioral challenges, and other life and relationship stressors. My approach is trauma-informed and strength-based. I help my clients work toward their goals while feeling safe and connected with themselves and others.
I received a Master of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy from Loyola Marymount University.
Hello, I'm Christina. I care deeply about my clients and try to create an affirming space for all. I specialize in working with families, children, teens, and young adults. I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community and people experiencing trauma disorders, anxiety, depression, adoption and attachment issues, behavioral challenges, and other life and relationship stressors. My approach is trauma-informed and strength-based. I help my clients work toward their goals while feeling safe and connected with themselves and others.
(858) 786-1594 View (858) 786-1594
Photo of Jose Cherbowsky, PhD, LMFC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose Cherbowsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
In therapeutic processes, counselors and patients are challenged to create a platform that encourages change and enhances the quality of life. Counseling is a unique opportunity to build an "internal kaleidoscope" that helps us see and understand life in multiple ways. . I offer bilingual (English/Spanish) services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. The techniques I use include a combination of theoretical perspectives such as psychoanalytic, existentialist, and expressive art therapy. Education: Ph.D. in Psychology, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist .Certification: Expressive Arts Therapy (UCSD) Training: Group Psychotherapist (AMPAG) . I look forward to working with you.!
In therapeutic processes, counselors and patients are challenged to create a platform that encourages change and enhances the quality of life. Counseling is a unique opportunity to build an "internal kaleidoscope" that helps us see and understand life in multiple ways. . I offer bilingual (English/Spanish) services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. The techniques I use include a combination of theoretical perspectives such as psychoanalytic, existentialist, and expressive art therapy. Education: Ph.D. in Psychology, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist .Certification: Expressive Arts Therapy (UCSD) Training: Group Psychotherapist (AMPAG) . I look forward to working with you.!
(760) 600-5580 View (760) 600-5580
Photo of Brittany Benjamin Amante, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Benjamin Amante
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
That’s why Brittany encourages clients to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions through art, allowing for deeper self-awareness and connection.
Middle school and high school are exciting times of our lives, marked by identity exploration, experimentation, and formation. And yet, they can also be some of the most stressful and overwhelming times of life — full of uncertainty, new expectations, and never ending pressure. There comes a point where it just feels like too much. That’s when grades begin to slip, extracurricular activities start to drain us, and our relationships with friends and family suffer, leaving us feeling isolated, lonely and misunderstood.
That’s why Brittany encourages clients to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions through art, allowing for deeper self-awareness and connection.
Middle school and high school are exciting times of our lives, marked by identity exploration, experimentation, and formation. And yet, they can also be some of the most stressful and overwhelming times of life — full of uncertainty, new expectations, and never ending pressure. There comes a point where it just feels like too much. That’s when grades begin to slip, extracurricular activities start to drain us, and our relationships with friends and family suffer, leaving us feeling isolated, lonely and misunderstood.
(858) 358-5974 View (858) 358-5974
Photo of Kathleen Atienza, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kathleen Atienza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I bring evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,
I bring evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy.
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Erika Diaz, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erika Diaz
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I use a variety of evidence based modalities during session depending on the clients needs and long term goals such as: Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Art therapy and Play Therapy.
My name is Erika Diaz, and I am a Spanish speaking therapist. As a therapist, I am passionate about providing Spanish therapeutic services for children, teens and adults who are in need of support around family communication issues, family healing adversities and environmental challenges that come with change. As a therapist, I am aware that it is difficult for families and children to seek therapy and accept support. I am enthusiastic about working with individuals facing adversities including depression, anxiety, family/life stressors, anger management, trauma, low self esteem, and appropriate communication.
I use a variety of evidence based modalities during session depending on the clients needs and long term goals such as: Solutions Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Art therapy and Play Therapy.
My name is Erika Diaz, and I am a Spanish speaking therapist. As a therapist, I am passionate about providing Spanish therapeutic services for children, teens and adults who are in need of support around family communication issues, family healing adversities and environmental challenges that come with change. As a therapist, I am aware that it is difficult for families and children to seek therapy and accept support. I am enthusiastic about working with individuals facing adversities including depression, anxiety, family/life stressors, anger management, trauma, low self esteem, and appropriate communication.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Photo of Ana Ruth Y Castillo, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ana Ruth Y Castillo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
I am a dedicated Marital and Family Therapist with clinical training as an Art Therapist and experience working in schools, community clinics, and youth advocacy. I am passionate about empowering families and individuals in overcoming and transmuting intergenerational trauma while remembering your resilience, your talents, and magic. I am inspired by truth, justice, and healing with a dedicated understanding of the pervasive impacts of colonialism, racialized economies, and systems of oppression as context to our lived experience and traumas.
I am a dedicated Marital and Family Therapist with clinical training as an Art Therapist and experience working in schools, community clinics, and youth advocacy. I am passionate about empowering families and individuals in overcoming and transmuting intergenerational trauma while remembering your resilience, your talents, and magic. I am inspired by truth, justice, and healing with a dedicated understanding of the pervasive impacts of colonialism, racialized economies, and systems of oppression as context to our lived experience and traumas.
(619) 493-3142 View (619) 493-3142
1
...
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.