Photo of Amrin Khan - Blue Bird Counselling, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Blue Bird Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
My approach with each person (adult, child, couple & family) is as unique as the individual. I work collaboratively with you in order to achieve the most positive and maximum results. My hope is to provide you with the education, skills, and tools in order to empower you to live your life to the fullest. I believe in a holistic treatment approach: emotional, cognitive, physical & spiritual. I offer art and talk therapy in office, online, and via telephone, to people of all ages, struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns.
My approach with each person (adult, child, couple & family) is as unique as the individual. I work collaboratively with you in order to achieve the most positive and maximum results. My hope is to provide you with the education, skills, and tools in order to empower you to live your life to the fullest. I believe in a holistic treatment approach: emotional, cognitive, physical & spiritual. I offer art and talk therapy in office, online, and via telephone, to people of all ages, struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns.
(604) 265-7752 View (604) 265-7752
Photo of Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald, MA, CCC, BCaBA
Dominika Nelly Szymanska - McDonald
MA, CCC, BCaBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
The types of treatment in which Dominika is trained and experienced, include behavior therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, Acceptance Commitment, mindfulness, The Narrative Approach, and art-based counselling.
For over 24 years, Dominika has provided behavior treatment to children, teens, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, or other developmental disabilities. Currently, Dominika’s focus lies in guiding teens and young adults through their major life transitions, and helping them navigate their peer and family relations, academic pursuits, career goals and existential challenges. In addition, Dominika provides support to individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, immigration issues and existential crises. She utilizes her clinical experience to provide solution-focused treatment.
The types of treatment in which Dominika is trained and experienced, include behavior therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, Acceptance Commitment, mindfulness, The Narrative Approach, and art-based counselling.
For over 24 years, Dominika has provided behavior treatment to children, teens, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, or other developmental disabilities. Currently, Dominika’s focus lies in guiding teens and young adults through their major life transitions, and helping them navigate their peer and family relations, academic pursuits, career goals and existential challenges. In addition, Dominika provides support to individuals and families dealing with depression, grief, immigration issues and existential crises. She utilizes her clinical experience to provide solution-focused treatment.
(709) 703-8733 View (709) 703-8733
Photo of Mina Makkar - A Kind Universe Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
A Kind Universe Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S
Over the years, I have gained experience and training in using various therapeutic approaches, such as EMDR, EFT, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative, and Art Therapy.
Currently accepting new client in-person or online! I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. I am a BCACC registered clinical counsellor with over two decades of experience working for the public school system.I use evidence-based approach to manage and lift a variety of issues, including ADHD, Autism, attachment, trauma, relational abuse, codependency, inner critic, depression, anger, anxiety, loneliness, relationship issues, and negative self-concept. I am well-versed in supporting individuals, couples and families.
Over the years, I have gained experience and training in using various therapeutic approaches, such as EMDR, EFT, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative, and Art Therapy.
Currently accepting new client in-person or online! I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. I am a BCACC registered clinical counsellor with over two decades of experience working for the public school system.I use evidence-based approach to manage and lift a variety of issues, including ADHD, Autism, attachment, trauma, relational abuse, codependency, inner critic, depression, anger, anxiety, loneliness, relationship issues, and negative self-concept. I am well-versed in supporting individuals, couples and families.
(450) 823-2660 View (450) 823-2660
Photo of Josette Marie Steel, MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Josette Marie Steel
MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A  (Online Only)
As a Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, Substance Misuse Counsellor, Life Coach, & EFT practitioner, I am able to draw from many different directions so, together, we can build a creative healing plan that fits your specific, personal needs and enables you to reach your goals.
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
As a Clinical Counsellor, Art Therapist, Substance Misuse Counsellor, Life Coach, & EFT practitioner, I am able to draw from many different directions so, together, we can build a creative healing plan that fits your specific, personal needs and enables you to reach your goals.
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
(778) 960-1899 View (778) 960-1899
Photo of Ashley Barker, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Ashley Barker
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
For children I explore these concepts through art, crafts and play to help them gain control of their thoughts and feelings.
Anxiety can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. If you or your child is overcome with panic, feel scared to perform or speak to others, have trouble getting to school/work or participating in things that could bring joy, then I can help. I provide a safe and caring environment to explore worries, learn strategies to manage symptoms of fear and anxiety and help identify thinking traps that reinforce fears. If you or your child/teen struggles with anxiety, give me a call and we will create a plan together.
For children I explore these concepts through art, crafts and play to help them gain control of their thoughts and feelings.
Anxiety can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. If you or your child is overcome with panic, feel scared to perform or speak to others, have trouble getting to school/work or participating in things that could bring joy, then I can help. I provide a safe and caring environment to explore worries, learn strategies to manage symptoms of fear and anxiety and help identify thinking traps that reinforce fears. If you or your child/teen struggles with anxiety, give me a call and we will create a plan together.
(438) 256-6285 View (438) 256-6285
Photo of Charlene Kostecki, MA, RCC, STEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charlene Kostecki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, RCC, STEP
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
Play and Art Therapy is an effective tool for children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional adjustment issues, ADHD or Aspergers.
"Change is possible, and the right therapy will instill confidence, awaken insight, and nurture growth. Together we will help you discover and heal so that you can feel better and live the life and have the relationships you want." Are you dealing with Anxiety? Depression? Anger? Relationhsip Issues? Call me and discuss how I can help you find balance and happiness." 604 992-7220
Play and Art Therapy is an effective tool for children and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional adjustment issues, ADHD or Aspergers.
"Change is possible, and the right therapy will instill confidence, awaken insight, and nurture growth. Together we will help you discover and heal so that you can feel better and live the life and have the relationships you want." Are you dealing with Anxiety? Depression? Anger? Relationhsip Issues? Call me and discuss how I can help you find balance and happiness." 604 992-7220
(604) 992-7220 View (604) 992-7220
Photo of Bjorn Yearwood, BA, DVATI, RTC, Counsellor
Bjorn Yearwood
Counsellor, BA, DVATI, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3V  (Online Only)
If you think art therapy sounds right for you, please book a free 15-minute consultation so we can connect and discuss potential next steps.
I am a Professional Art Therapist and Registered Therapeutic Counsellor. At my virtual art therapy practice, I take an anti-oppressive, person-centred and postmodern approach. Since art therapy is about the process and not perfection, no art experience is necessary! With the client being the expert of their life, I will lend my ears, knowledge, and skills to help them on their healing/growth journey.
If you think art therapy sounds right for you, please book a free 15-minute consultation so we can connect and discuss potential next steps.
I am a Professional Art Therapist and Registered Therapeutic Counsellor. At my virtual art therapy practice, I take an anti-oppressive, person-centred and postmodern approach. Since art therapy is about the process and not perfection, no art experience is necessary! With the client being the expert of their life, I will lend my ears, knowledge, and skills to help them on their healing/growth journey.
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Photo of Karen Mitchinson, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Karen Mitchinson
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I am creative, using art and sandtray, mindfulness, DBT, CBT and EMDR.
I enjoy working with people, both children, youth and adults. If you are feeling stress, distress or having difficulties managing a relationship in your life, family issues or conflicts or a loss, I would be happy to help you find that peace and calm that can bring you back to feeling joy and hope in your life. In my experience people often have the answers and the resources within themselves that they discover through counselling. I have extensive experience with mental health and addiction and the families, and autism, couples, and families and would love to work with you in finding the help you are looking for.
I am creative, using art and sandtray, mindfulness, DBT, CBT and EMDR.
I enjoy working with people, both children, youth and adults. If you are feeling stress, distress or having difficulties managing a relationship in your life, family issues or conflicts or a loss, I would be happy to help you find that peace and calm that can bring you back to feeling joy and hope in your life. In my experience people often have the answers and the resources within themselves that they discover through counselling. I have extensive experience with mental health and addiction and the families, and autism, couples, and families and would love to work with you in finding the help you are looking for.
(587) 315-6871 View (587) 315-6871
Photo of Angela Herd, MACP, RCC, CCC, RCAT, DipCSW, Counsellor
Angela Herd
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, CCC, RCAT, DipCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R  (Online Only)
Visit with me at the Virtual FHC Clinic! Post COVID-19 visit our Farm clinic situated on 5 acres, a unique mini-retreat offering a special art therapy/nature therapy experience! It is easily accessible to residents & visitors within the lower mainland & Greater Vancouver area.
I am here to help you or your loved ones to cope & develop healthy relationships. I have enjoyed almost 30 years supporting children, youth, couples & families. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Certified Canadian Counsellor, Registered Art Therapist, Clinical Supervisor & University Educator. I am interested in helping you identify & build your strengths to cope & heal from stressors & concerns you are currently facing. With the help of best-practice strategies, tools, creativity & appropriate community referrals, you can experience the freedom to live your best life with confidence!
Visit with me at the Virtual FHC Clinic! Post COVID-19 visit our Farm clinic situated on 5 acres, a unique mini-retreat offering a special art therapy/nature therapy experience! It is easily accessible to residents & visitors within the lower mainland & Greater Vancouver area.
I am here to help you or your loved ones to cope & develop healthy relationships. I have enjoyed almost 30 years supporting children, youth, couples & families. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Certified Canadian Counsellor, Registered Art Therapist, Clinical Supervisor & University Educator. I am interested in helping you identify & build your strengths to cope & heal from stressors & concerns you are currently facing. With the help of best-practice strategies, tools, creativity & appropriate community referrals, you can experience the freedom to live your best life with confidence!
(778) 400-4650 View (778) 400-4650
Photo of Tamana Shahsamand - Tamana Shahsamand Counselling, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamana Shahsamand Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R
My therapeutic approach is integrative, utilizing a combination of CBT, ACT, SFT, mindfulness, art and play therapy.
You may find yourself dealing with challenges that have altered the structure of your life, as you knew it before. When things around us change, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the unknown and not feel prepared to adjust to new realities. These factors can trigger different emotions making us feel stuck or not able to move forward. My area of focus is diverse and includes; anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief, loss, unexpected life changes, crises, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, health challenges, work, and school stress. My aim remains steadfast in helping clients find healthy ways to cope.
My therapeutic approach is integrative, utilizing a combination of CBT, ACT, SFT, mindfulness, art and play therapy.
You may find yourself dealing with challenges that have altered the structure of your life, as you knew it before. When things around us change, we can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the unknown and not feel prepared to adjust to new realities. These factors can trigger different emotions making us feel stuck or not able to move forward. My area of focus is diverse and includes; anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, grief, loss, unexpected life changes, crises, relationship issues, difficult family dynamics, health challenges, work, and school stress. My aim remains steadfast in helping clients find healthy ways to cope.
(604) 239-6228 View (604) 239-6228
Photo of Ana-Maria Comia, RTC, DVATI, Art Therapist
Ana-Maria Comia
Art Therapist, RTC, DVATI
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3R
Art Therapy as well as the other expressive therapies are unique in that they bridge cultural and language divides.
Whether you are re-taking control of your life and starting over or you are looking to set time aside for your mental wellbeing, Art Therapy can help. Art Therapy is widely used as an auxiliary treatment for depression, illness and chronic pain, addiction and trauma. Children and Youth particularly respond well to Art Therapy as it offers a less confrontational approach to counselling . I have experience working with children and youth with various challenges stemming from parental separation, anxiety disorders, grief and loss and especially difficulties with social inclusion and feeling outcasted.
Art Therapy as well as the other expressive therapies are unique in that they bridge cultural and language divides.
Whether you are re-taking control of your life and starting over or you are looking to set time aside for your mental wellbeing, Art Therapy can help. Art Therapy is widely used as an auxiliary treatment for depression, illness and chronic pain, addiction and trauma. Children and Youth particularly respond well to Art Therapy as it offers a less confrontational approach to counselling . I have experience working with children and youth with various challenges stemming from parental separation, anxiety disorders, grief and loss and especially difficulties with social inclusion and feeling outcasted.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Erin Miller Schumann, MCP-AT, RCC, Counsellor
Erin Miller Schumann
Counsellor, MCP-AT, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3X
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Counselling Art Therapist. I am CVAP and FNHA qualified. I believe that everyone should have access to holistic equity-based counselling. As such, I am passionate about creating a safe, respectful, and validating space for you to explore your mental health and lived experiences through traditional talk therapy with the option of art and the art making process. Sometimes words do not get our important thoughts and feelings quite right, and art can be a great way to explore what lies within. No art experience needed!
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Counselling Art Therapist. I am CVAP and FNHA qualified. I believe that everyone should have access to holistic equity-based counselling. As such, I am passionate about creating a safe, respectful, and validating space for you to explore your mental health and lived experiences through traditional talk therapy with the option of art and the art making process. Sometimes words do not get our important thoughts and feelings quite right, and art can be a great way to explore what lies within. No art experience needed!
(819) 410-9576 View (819) 410-9576
Photo of Swetha Ranasuriya, MA, RCC, RCAT, ACS, Counsellor
Swetha Ranasuriya
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RCAT, ACS
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I am a registered clinical counsellor and a registered art therapist.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages. Whether you have specific goals for therapy, feel like you need help to keep moving forward, or are searching for some sort of clarity, I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience may help you in your journey.
I am a registered clinical counsellor and a registered art therapist.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages. Whether you have specific goals for therapy, feel like you need help to keep moving forward, or are searching for some sort of clarity, I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience may help you in your journey.
(365) 800-3418 View (365) 800-3418
Photo of Erin Evans - Two Hands Consulting, CD, LMSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Two Hands Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CD, LMSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Have feelings of depression got your down? Or are you just feeling "lost"? I have worked with a variety of clients, and as an anti-oppressive social worker, I have many 'tools' to help, including cognitive behavioural therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy and more. I firmly believe that the client is the expert and they know what they need to change; and my job is to help facilitate that.
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Have feelings of depression got your down? Or are you just feeling "lost"? I have worked with a variety of clients, and as an anti-oppressive social worker, I have many 'tools' to help, including cognitive behavioural therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy and more. I firmly believe that the client is the expert and they know what they need to change; and my job is to help facilitate that.
(587) 741-3007 View (587) 741-3007
Photo of Haylee O'Doherty, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Haylee O'Doherty
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and play therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, youth, and families feel more connected and confident. I believe that individuals have an innate wisdom and creativity that guides their healing journey. Working with children, I draw from an integrative non-directive play therapy approach. Through art and play, children can freely process their experiences in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Working with youth, I integrate art, somatic, and talk-based therapies to help clients navigate social-emotional concerns, anxiety, depression, sexuality and gender concerns, and trauma.
As a trauma-informed clinical counsellor and play therapist, I am dedicated to helping children, youth, and families feel more connected and confident. I believe that individuals have an innate wisdom and creativity that guides their healing journey. Working with children, I draw from an integrative non-directive play therapy approach. Through art and play, children can freely process their experiences in a safe and non-judgemental environment. Working with youth, I integrate art, somatic, and talk-based therapies to help clients navigate social-emotional concerns, anxiety, depression, sexuality and gender concerns, and trauma.
(236) 201-9852 View (236) 201-9852
Photo of Sonia Pietravalle Art Therapist, MA, AT, CATA, Art Therapist
Sonia Pietravalle Art Therapist
Art Therapist, MA, AT, CATA
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3R
Art acts as a safe space for issues to be explored.
I have been working with youth and young adults for over 10 years in educational settings. My work has primarily focused on those with learning disorders, mood, attention, motivational, peer and relationship issues. I provide support to those undergoing life transitions, dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress. I use a client-centered eclectic approach which uses expressive art therapy, mindfulness and somatic based techniques aimed at repairing disconnection between the mind, body, and the outer world. Art therapy is particularly useful when words can sometimes feel limiting or restricting.
Art acts as a safe space for issues to be explored.
I have been working with youth and young adults for over 10 years in educational settings. My work has primarily focused on those with learning disorders, mood, attention, motivational, peer and relationship issues. I provide support to those undergoing life transitions, dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress. I use a client-centered eclectic approach which uses expressive art therapy, mindfulness and somatic based techniques aimed at repairing disconnection between the mind, body, and the outer world. Art therapy is particularly useful when words can sometimes feel limiting or restricting.
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Photo of Christopher Vu | Vietnamese Counsellor | Art Therapist | Emdr Therapist, MCP: AT, RCC, Pro-CAT, CVAP, EMDR, Counsellor
Christopher Vu | Vietnamese Counsellor | Art Therapist | Emdr Therapist
Counsellor, MCP: AT, RCC, Pro-CAT, CVAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3W
I am a Professional Art Therapist (member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association) and a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
My approach to counselling is a psychodynamic, person-centred, and trauma-informed approach. The psychodynamic approach can help us gain new insights into our lives, and by integrating art into the session, it can become a powerful mind-body-oriented resource for individuals to look into themselves, and at their concerns, from a different angle.
I am a Professional Art Therapist (member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association) and a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
My approach to counselling is a psychodynamic, person-centred, and trauma-informed approach. The psychodynamic approach can help us gain new insights into our lives, and by integrating art into the session, it can become a powerful mind-body-oriented resource for individuals to look into themselves, and at their concerns, from a different angle.
(236) 996-7709 View (236) 996-7709
Photo of Raman Samra, MCP:AT, RCC, Counsellor
Raman Samra
Counsellor, MCP:AT, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4N
Art Therapy.
I am passionate in working with adolescents and adults through a variety of different issues, including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, addiction, and psychosis. I am grounded in a culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed perspective and believe in each individual's innate desire to heal and move towards their life goals. I acknowledge the unique experiences that each person brings to the counselling process, and find it a privilege to be included in your journey.
Art Therapy.
I am passionate in working with adolescents and adults through a variety of different issues, including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, addiction, and psychosis. I am grounded in a culturally-sensitive, trauma-informed perspective and believe in each individual's innate desire to heal and move towards their life goals. I acknowledge the unique experiences that each person brings to the counselling process, and find it a privilege to be included in your journey.
(587) 848-3748 View (587) 848-3748
Photo of Gurpreet Nahal, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Gurpreet Nahal
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Hello! As a South Asian woman of colour, I have grown up and experienced living in a multicultural society, balancing the different identities that may come from being a child of immigrants as well as having peers of differing backgrounds. This has helped me develop a unique understanding of the experiences of those similar and different to me. I understand that our cultural upbringings, beliefs, and values may both help and hinder us in some ways as we grow into who we are today. We are made up of so many parts that make us who we are, and that is so important to understand and work with for your mental health and wellbeing.
Hello! As a South Asian woman of colour, I have grown up and experienced living in a multicultural society, balancing the different identities that may come from being a child of immigrants as well as having peers of differing backgrounds. This has helped me develop a unique understanding of the experiences of those similar and different to me. I understand that our cultural upbringings, beliefs, and values may both help and hinder us in some ways as we grow into who we are today. We are made up of so many parts that make us who we are, and that is so important to understand and work with for your mental health and wellbeing.
(587) 705-0958 View (587) 705-0958
Photo of Divya G, MPS, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Divya G
Registered Psychotherapist, MPS, CCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3R  (Online Only)
You work hard to make relationships work, work hard at your job, you try your best to ensure everyone else around you is happy but end up losing yourself amid this. Even though you feel isolated, unheard, unseen you keep going. You want to stand up for yourself but don’t know how to. At times you feel overwhelmed with emotions thus feeling lost, helpless and anxious. You wonder why you connect to people a certain way and wish you could have healthier/sustainable relationships, wish you could cope better in difficult situations/be in charge of the way you express your feelings.
You work hard to make relationships work, work hard at your job, you try your best to ensure everyone else around you is happy but end up losing yourself amid this. Even though you feel isolated, unheard, unseen you keep going. You want to stand up for yourself but don’t know how to. At times you feel overwhelmed with emotions thus feeling lost, helpless and anxious. You wonder why you connect to people a certain way and wish you could have healthier/sustainable relationships, wish you could cope better in difficult situations/be in charge of the way you express your feelings.
(343) 321-0457 View (343) 321-0457
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Art Therapy Counsellors

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.