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Find Art Therapy and Psychologists in Saint Louis, MO - Psychology Today

Art Therapy in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Debbie Pullin, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Pullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Additionally, I offer EMDR, art, inner child and spirituality as modalities that can be incorporated into therapy.
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
Additionally, I offer EMDR, art, inner child and spirituality as modalities that can be incorporated into therapy.
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
(314) 287-5466 View (314) 287-5466
Photo of Dominique Begnaud, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, ATR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominique Begnaud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Art, play, and gardening therapy incorporate a variety of techniques.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
Art, play, and gardening therapy incorporate a variety of techniques.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
(314) 748-0120 View (314) 748-0120
Photo of Stephanie Whitney Jategaonkar, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Whitney Jategaonkar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered / Board Certified Art Therapist working with adults, adolescents, and children. My approach to therapy begins with forming a safe, therapeutic relationship that allows you to explore life transitions, emotional pain, or other symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, or eating disorders. We will move beyond symptom management and help you to identify and develop understanding of the deeper meaning of the presenting symptoms. Often, the symptoms are external manifestations of conflicts and core beliefs rooted in the inner world or attempts to avoid the pain of past and current life experiences.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered / Board Certified Art Therapist working with adults, adolescents, and children. My approach to therapy begins with forming a safe, therapeutic relationship that allows you to explore life transitions, emotional pain, or other symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, or eating disorders. We will move beyond symptom management and help you to identify and develop understanding of the deeper meaning of the presenting symptoms. Often, the symptoms are external manifestations of conflicts and core beliefs rooted in the inner world or attempts to avoid the pain of past and current life experiences.
(314) 266-8280 View (314) 266-8280
Photo of Marybeth Pugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marybeth Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
Hello, I’m MaryBeth! I have 8 years of clinical experience in community mental health. My goal is to help you achieve your goals, as I believe that YOU are the expert in your life and you deserve to take up space in this world! I work with people ages 15 & up. I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, & CPT. Through a trauma informed lens, we will use client-centered therapy to tailor modalities to your personal needs. I also find that creating art in our sessions can be incredibly powerful, if that’s something you’d like to explore! I accept UHC, Cigna, Aetna, Medicaid HSH, & self-pay.
(314) 970-5040 View (314) 970-5040
Photo of Laura Peroutka, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Peroutka
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
The art in therapy deepens the therapeutic work by engaging the whole self.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
The art in therapy deepens the therapeutic work by engaging the whole self.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
(314) 736-3649 View (314) 736-3649
Photo of Amy Goldstein, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, (EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, (EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397
Photo of Quincy Phipps, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quincy Phipps
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118  (Online Only)
As an LPC and licensed art therapist, I work with clients to help address challenges that arise from a number of life events.
Growth and healing is fostered when we feel accepted and heard. I show up for my clients with an inclusive, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental approach to sessions. I meet you with a supportive and open attitude as you explore your authentic self and grow into your potential. We can get there by learning and then practicing new coping techniques that can improve your quality of life while working to understand the patterns that may have led you to seek support. Together, we can develop a new path with less suffering and a better understanding of yourself and your limits.
As an LPC and licensed art therapist, I work with clients to help address challenges that arise from a number of life events.
Growth and healing is fostered when we feel accepted and heard. I show up for my clients with an inclusive, culturally responsive, and nonjudgmental approach to sessions. I meet you with a supportive and open attitude as you explore your authentic self and grow into your potential. We can get there by learning and then practicing new coping techniques that can improve your quality of life while working to understand the patterns that may have led you to seek support. Together, we can develop a new path with less suffering and a better understanding of yourself and your limits.
(314) 944-2472 View (314) 944-2472
Photo of Yvette Kristine Pelikan - Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63144
My primary focus is working with children 4-18 years old, through the use of art and play therapy techniques as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
My primary focus is working with children 4-18 years old, through the use of art and play therapy techniques as well as Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
(314) 270-1336 View (314) 270-1336
Photo of Ayelet Gottesman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ayelet Gottesman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
With kids, I use play therapy and art to help them express themselves and learn to better regulate their emotions and behaviors.
My approach to therapy stems from the belief that feeling truly seen and understood is a basic human need. I aim to provide a safe and reflective space where you can bring your whole self without fear of judgment. We will work together in a collaborative process to understand your unique experiences and how they've impacted you, figure out where you may be stuck, and help you take back the reins. I work with people, not diagnoses, and take a strengths-based approach to help individuals of all ages gain self-awareness, curiosity, inspiration and hope.
With kids, I use play therapy and art to help them express themselves and learn to better regulate their emotions and behaviors.
My approach to therapy stems from the belief that feeling truly seen and understood is a basic human need. I aim to provide a safe and reflective space where you can bring your whole self without fear of judgment. We will work together in a collaborative process to understand your unique experiences and how they've impacted you, figure out where you may be stuck, and help you take back the reins. I work with people, not diagnoses, and take a strengths-based approach to help individuals of all ages gain self-awareness, curiosity, inspiration and hope.
(314) 671-0714 View (314) 671-0714
Photo of Veronica Michelle Higgins, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Veronica Michelle Higgins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Through play, art, and other creative modalities, children can develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and build self-esteem.
I have always desired to understand feelings, behavior and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why and how to work with the child and family to unlock their inner potential
Through play, art, and other creative modalities, children can develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and build self-esteem.
I have always desired to understand feelings, behavior and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why and how to work with the child and family to unlock their inner potential
(314) 370-2640 x741 View (314) 370-2640 x741
Photo of Megan Robb, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Robb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
I use art therapy and various evidenced based practices personalized to your working style because our relationship or the group relationship is my priority.
Hi, I'm Megan and I use she/her pronouns. I have 20 years experience working alongside people as they strengthen their inner knowledge and outward interactions. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current brain-based therapy approaches to help integrate outdated patterns into newer, more helpful ones.
(314) 970-5890 View (314) 970-5890
Photo of Katie L Arnold, MA, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie L Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I offer a mix of primarily art therapy, EMDR therapy and DBT / CBT - individualized depending on the client's case and goals.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
I offer a mix of primarily art therapy, EMDR therapy and DBT / CBT - individualized depending on the client's case and goals.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
(314) 375-4887 View (314) 375-4887
Photo of Monica Lieser - Sandhill Counseling & Consultation, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandhill Counseling & Consultation
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128
Anxiety * Grief/Loss * Life Transitions * Relationships Adolescent Self-Esteem and Anger Management * Sexual Addiction Recovery Intimacy and Sexuality * ADHD Assessment *Coping with Divorce * Trauma * Mindfulness * Substance Abuse * Family Conflict * Eating Disorders *Smoking Cessation * Spirituality * Healthy Lifestyle Choices * Adolescent Self-Injury *Play Therapy *Pre-Marital Counseling * Nutrition Counseling * Yoga *Art Therapy*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* Happiness Work.
We are a diverse group of licensed professionals. We are compassionate, knowledgable and honored to work with individuals, couples, and families. We support our clients to discover their own personal grace and agility, their ability to express themselves with integrity and conviction and most importantly to restore their faith in themselves and in their relationships.
Anxiety * Grief/Loss * Life Transitions * Relationships Adolescent Self-Esteem and Anger Management * Sexual Addiction Recovery Intimacy and Sexuality * ADHD Assessment *Coping with Divorce * Trauma * Mindfulness * Substance Abuse * Family Conflict * Eating Disorders *Smoking Cessation * Spirituality * Healthy Lifestyle Choices * Adolescent Self-Injury *Play Therapy *Pre-Marital Counseling * Nutrition Counseling * Yoga *Art Therapy*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy* Happiness Work.
We are a diverse group of licensed professionals. We are compassionate, knowledgable and honored to work with individuals, couples, and families. We support our clients to discover their own personal grace and agility, their ability to express themselves with integrity and conviction and most importantly to restore their faith in themselves and in their relationships.
(636) 336-1364 View (636) 336-1364
Photo of Andi Burgess, LCPC, Counselor
Andi Burgess
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I am both a Licensed Counselor and a trained Art Therapist.
Helping others find peace, healing and empowerment is the center of my work as a therapist. Drawing from several theoretical approaches, I have helped individuals work through trauma, family conflict, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I offer a safe place to help individuals heal past wounds, improve relationships and restore balance.
I am both a Licensed Counselor and a trained Art Therapist.
Helping others find peace, healing and empowerment is the center of my work as a therapist. Drawing from several theoretical approaches, I have helped individuals work through trauma, family conflict, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I offer a safe place to help individuals heal past wounds, improve relationships and restore balance.
(618) 248-4403 View (618) 248-4403
Photo of Stacey Budke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Budke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I believe we all have the capacity to improve our lives and understand ourselves more fully. It takes a great deal of courage to ask for help. Appreciating and respecting that courage, my work is to help my clients attain their goals. We do this together as a team. Being stuck personally or professionally is poignantly uncomfortable. Together we can move thru and beyond this state and get to the other side. To address your individuality I utilize a wide array of interventions: mindfulness-based talk therapy, somatic techniques, art therapy, music therapy.
I believe we all have the capacity to improve our lives and understand ourselves more fully. It takes a great deal of courage to ask for help. Appreciating and respecting that courage, my work is to help my clients attain their goals. We do this together as a team. Being stuck personally or professionally is poignantly uncomfortable. Together we can move thru and beyond this state and get to the other side. To address your individuality I utilize a wide array of interventions: mindfulness-based talk therapy, somatic techniques, art therapy, music therapy.
(314) 361-7799 View (314) 361-7799
Photo of Janet Sgro - Art Therapist at RX Art Therapy, Inc., MAATC, ATR-P, Art Therapist
Art Therapist at RX Art Therapy, Inc.
Art Therapist, MAATC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Art therapy involves the body, mind and spirit. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal. We have a nourishing environment to process, allowing for increased insight into any issues, removing roadblocks to growth, and reframe perceptions. I emphasize the use of art, movement and mindfulness in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Art therapy gives an opportunity to facilitate integration that can lead to a new state of embodiment and awareness improving your quality of life.
Art therapy involves the body, mind and spirit. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal. We have a nourishing environment to process, allowing for increased insight into any issues, removing roadblocks to growth, and reframe perceptions. I emphasize the use of art, movement and mindfulness in a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Art therapy gives an opportunity to facilitate integration that can lead to a new state of embodiment and awareness improving your quality of life.
(217) 631-8130 View (217) 631-8130
Photo of Aurelia Deas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aurelia Deas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I also incorporate Therapeutic Art and Play Interventions, to approach each client's story as unique.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in getting to know me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering brief and extended therapy to children, adolescents, families, individual adults and groups. I received my Masters of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis at The George Warren Brown School of Social Work. I am a bilingual clinician speaking both English and Spanish.
I also incorporate Therapeutic Art and Play Interventions, to approach each client's story as unique.
Welcome and thank you for your interest in getting to know me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering brief and extended therapy to children, adolescents, families, individual adults and groups. I received my Masters of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis at The George Warren Brown School of Social Work. I am a bilingual clinician speaking both English and Spanish.
(314) 207-4351 x102 View (314) 207-4351 x102
Photo of Jim Gerber, PhD, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim Gerber
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Many people experience injuries in life that do not subside with the passage of time. The residue of these injuries can result in depression, intrusive thoughts and desperate ways of coping. We can fall into patterns of being that feel too hard to change. All of this then interferes with connection to others and intimacy. One does not have to live this way. It can be different.
Many people experience injuries in life that do not subside with the passage of time. The residue of these injuries can result in depression, intrusive thoughts and desperate ways of coping. We can fall into patterns of being that feel too hard to change. All of this then interferes with connection to others and intimacy. One does not have to live this way. It can be different.
(636) 303-1492 View (636) 303-1492
Photo of Austin E Wilmot, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
(314) 907-3197 View (314) 907-3197
Photo of Shannon Newcomb, MSW, LMSW, CLC
Shannon Newcomb
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63143  (Online Only)
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
(636) 434-2577 View (636) 434-2577

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.