Art Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Peter Skutt, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Peter Skutt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Art therapy is not just for artists - anyone can benefit from art therapy regardless of their artistic experience.
Sometimes the act of verbalizing our experiences can be very challenging. Art can be a great way to begin the therapeutic process and to further explore the unseen and unsaid aspects of our lives. My approach focuses primarily on the combination of art therapy and internal family systems therapy, to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of their different parts and how those parts show up in the world. I try to be very collaborative and transparent with my clients to create a more equal dynamic in our sessions.
Art therapy is not just for artists - anyone can benefit from art therapy regardless of their artistic experience.
Sometimes the act of verbalizing our experiences can be very challenging. Art can be a great way to begin the therapeutic process and to further explore the unseen and unsaid aspects of our lives. My approach focuses primarily on the combination of art therapy and internal family systems therapy, to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of their different parts and how those parts show up in the world. I try to be very collaborative and transparent with my clients to create a more equal dynamic in our sessions.
(971) 571-5217 View (971) 571-5217
Photo of Kirsten Rios, R-DMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kirsten Rios
Pre-Licensed Professional, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
My philosophy derives from the holistic, humanistic, positive psychology approach that integrates the emotional, social, and physical state of individuals through movement and art. I wish to advocate for equity in my work through supporting individuals in ways that are imaginative, strengths based, and developmentally appropriate; while also being open-minded, inclusive and considerate of experiences and other cultures.
My philosophy derives from the holistic, humanistic, positive psychology approach that integrates the emotional, social, and physical state of individuals through movement and art. I wish to advocate for equity in my work through supporting individuals in ways that are imaginative, strengths based, and developmentally appropriate; while also being open-minded, inclusive and considerate of experiences and other cultures.
(971) 251-2092 View (971) 251-2092
Photo of Caitlin Foster, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caitlin Foster
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I employ an integrative, person-centered approach incorporating existential therapy, feminist psychology, cognitive behavioral aspects, polyvagal theory, somatic exercises, mindfulness, and art therapy.
You deserve to live fully and freely, to express yourself, and to be heard with curiosity and intent to understand. This often means unlearning behaviors or ideas that may have served us in the past and are now holding us back, releasing societal expectations that feel out of alignment with us, and learning what works for us now. We’ll work together to understand how your past shaped who you are, and to discover how you want to show up today.
I employ an integrative, person-centered approach incorporating existential therapy, feminist psychology, cognitive behavioral aspects, polyvagal theory, somatic exercises, mindfulness, and art therapy.
You deserve to live fully and freely, to express yourself, and to be heard with curiosity and intent to understand. This often means unlearning behaviors or ideas that may have served us in the past and are now holding us back, releasing societal expectations that feel out of alignment with us, and learning what works for us now. We’ll work together to understand how your past shaped who you are, and to discover how you want to show up today.
(971) 256-5766 View (971) 256-5766
Photo of Cyneé Godshall, LAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cyneé Godshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I am here to support you finding your way through overwhelm, grief, trauma, and uncertainty. I am an art therapist and counselor who treats everyone with compassion, warmth, and respect, as I believe growth happens in safe relationships. I see therapy as a process of becoming a trusted ally to yourself so that you have a sense of groundedness, security, and wholeness. I work especially well with highly sensitive or neurodiverse adults experiencing anxiety, grief, burnout, attachment related trauma, and recovery from domestic violence or difficult relationships, by using a combination of art and talk therapy.
I am here to support you finding your way through overwhelm, grief, trauma, and uncertainty. I am an art therapist and counselor who treats everyone with compassion, warmth, and respect, as I believe growth happens in safe relationships. I see therapy as a process of becoming a trusted ally to yourself so that you have a sense of groundedness, security, and wholeness. I work especially well with highly sensitive or neurodiverse adults experiencing anxiety, grief, burnout, attachment related trauma, and recovery from domestic violence or difficult relationships, by using a combination of art and talk therapy.
(503) 386-0328 View (503) 386-0328
Photo of Harini Sukumaran, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harini Sukumaran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
I use Mindfulness based stress reduction, ACT and guided meditation to help women accomplish their goals & primarily play therapy, art therapy, CBT, yoga with children.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
(503) 766-4895 x3 View (503) 766-4895 x3
Photo of Jill Walsh, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Jill Walsh
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I focus mainly on individual work by utilizing Strengths-Based Narratives, Cognitive-Behavioral modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques and Art Therapy.
Hello, my name is Jill and I am accepting new clients in Oregon. As a clinician, I derive my philosophy of care from a deep value of service, honoring diversity, empowerment, social justice, ethical practice and the importance of interpersonal relationships. My primary goal in the therapeutic process is to assist clients in building the lives they want by promoting their inherent strengths, skills and community supports. My approach to therapy is one of collaboration.
I focus mainly on individual work by utilizing Strengths-Based Narratives, Cognitive-Behavioral modalities, Internal Family Systems techniques and Art Therapy.
Hello, my name is Jill and I am accepting new clients in Oregon. As a clinician, I derive my philosophy of care from a deep value of service, honoring diversity, empowerment, social justice, ethical practice and the importance of interpersonal relationships. My primary goal in the therapeutic process is to assist clients in building the lives they want by promoting their inherent strengths, skills and community supports. My approach to therapy is one of collaboration.
(971) 395-4015 View (971) 395-4015
Photo of Alex Harrison, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alex Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in somatic trauma therapy emphasizing techniques like meditation, art, and movement to help access and integrate underlying emotional distress.
I hold a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Western States in Portland, OR. My primary research focus is transpersonal experiences and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and integration. My philosophy is one of organicity, meaning that every individual is gifted with an innate healing wisdom and capacity for wholeness. As a former earth scientist and current artist, I incorporate lessons from nature and creative expression in my work, and seek to help others reconnect with the more subtle rhythms of psyche as a woven thread in the generative fabric of life.
I am also trained in somatic trauma therapy emphasizing techniques like meditation, art, and movement to help access and integrate underlying emotional distress.
I hold a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Western States in Portland, OR. My primary research focus is transpersonal experiences and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and integration. My philosophy is one of organicity, meaning that every individual is gifted with an innate healing wisdom and capacity for wholeness. As a former earth scientist and current artist, I incorporate lessons from nature and creative expression in my work, and seek to help others reconnect with the more subtle rhythms of psyche as a woven thread in the generative fabric of life.
(971) 251-4769 View (971) 251-4769
Photo of Sally Foster Rudolph, LCAT, ART-BC, Art Therapist
Sally Foster Rudolph
Art Therapist, LCAT, ART-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I combine the use of art therapy with regular talk therapy, writing, meditation, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and somatic awareness.
As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, genuine, creative, and hands-on way to process confusion, loss, and trauma. Maybe the past is not allowing you to move forward, or worry about the future makes you feel stuck. Perhaps you have lost a loved one, or your health, or a job, or an important relationship. Perhaps you are looking for a way to express yourself fully and integrate your experiences, but need structure and guidance to do so. I offer art therapy sessions in both individual and group format.
I combine the use of art therapy with regular talk therapy, writing, meditation, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and somatic awareness.
As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, genuine, creative, and hands-on way to process confusion, loss, and trauma. Maybe the past is not allowing you to move forward, or worry about the future makes you feel stuck. Perhaps you have lost a loved one, or your health, or a job, or an important relationship. Perhaps you are looking for a way to express yourself fully and integrate your experiences, but need structure and guidance to do so. I offer art therapy sessions in both individual and group format.
(503) 832-5061 View (503) 832-5061
Photo of Celine Elise Redfield, MA, LMFT, ATR, EFT, MP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celine Elise Redfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, EFT, MP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
In session we will externalize your problems, to gain a new perspective through the use of art, metaphor, and somatic based psychology.
My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am currently only accepting clients for my trauma group. I will collaborate with you by assisting you in identifying patterns that are no longer serving you. I will encourage you to be kind, loving, and compassionate towards yourself. Working from an empathic-based perspective, I will teach you to nurture yourself by using the tools of creative arts therapy, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, visualization, acupressure, and EFT tapping to help find your innate strengths.
In session we will externalize your problems, to gain a new perspective through the use of art, metaphor, and somatic based psychology.
My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I am currently only accepting clients for my trauma group. I will collaborate with you by assisting you in identifying patterns that are no longer serving you. I will encourage you to be kind, loving, and compassionate towards yourself. Working from an empathic-based perspective, I will teach you to nurture yourself by using the tools of creative arts therapy, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, visualization, acupressure, and EFT tapping to help find your innate strengths.
(503) 837-3478 View (503) 837-3478
Photo of Emi Gilbert, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emi Gilbert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I also have extensive experience adapting therapeutic interventions for children and teens, incorporating art, movement, games, and humor in our sessions as desired.
Do you or your child/teen have difficulty handling current anxiety or stressors? Find it challenging to understand or manage your emotional responses? Struggle in your interpersonal relationships? Have difficulty moving forward from past trauma? Want to explore and disrupt difficult patterns (such as attachment styles or intergenerational trauma)? If you or your child/teen seek a unique therapeutic experience, I can help. I believe we are not defined by our diagnoses and I commit to working with you as a holistic individual, family, or couple. My goal is to help you manage stress, resolve personal conflicts, and find balance.
I also have extensive experience adapting therapeutic interventions for children and teens, incorporating art, movement, games, and humor in our sessions as desired.
Do you or your child/teen have difficulty handling current anxiety or stressors? Find it challenging to understand or manage your emotional responses? Struggle in your interpersonal relationships? Have difficulty moving forward from past trauma? Want to explore and disrupt difficult patterns (such as attachment styles or intergenerational trauma)? If you or your child/teen seek a unique therapeutic experience, I can help. I believe we are not defined by our diagnoses and I commit to working with you as a holistic individual, family, or couple. My goal is to help you manage stress, resolve personal conflicts, and find balance.
(503) 483-8542 View (503) 483-8542
Photo of Mackenzie Phelps, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mackenzie Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
From emotional-focused therapy to family systems approaches, mindfulness, and art and sandtray therapy, I am dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals and families to explore their identities, navigate life transitions, and cultivate resilience.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
From emotional-focused therapy to family systems approaches, mindfulness, and art and sandtray therapy, I am dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals and families to explore their identities, navigate life transitions, and cultivate resilience.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
(971) 999-2763 View (971) 999-2763
Photo of Erica Ochsenreither, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Ochsenreither
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97222  (Online Only)
I am a mental health counselor specializing in art therapy.
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
I am a mental health counselor specializing in art therapy.
I am passionate about providing a warm, collaborative, empathetic space with opportunity for embodied healing. I will support you in weaving together thoughts, feelings, sensations, and beliefs in a safe and supportive relationship, deepening your awareness and, at times, challenging you toward your potential. I serve those struggling with depression, anxiety, navigating the effects of acute and/or complex trauma, those seeking to deepen their relationship with their body, and those desiring to change the way they show up in relationships. Come as you are, to a soft place to land, where you can feel wholeheartedly human.
(503) 468-4589 View (503) 468-4589
Photo of Drew Smith, LPC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Drew Smith
Art Therapist, LPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is highly collaborative, and sessions include time for art-making, creative writing, and/or building from any other creative outlets you may have.
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
My approach to therapy is highly collaborative, and sessions include time for art-making, creative writing, and/or building from any other creative outlets you may have.
Are you looking for new ways to gain perspective and examine your life, access the healthiest version of yourself, and get in touch with your sources of inspiration and meaning? If you're struggling to connect with your health, happiness, creativity and motivation, you don't have to go it alone. Life may feel overwhelming, chaotic, and difficult to navigate, but it doesn't have to be this way. Together, we can identify and address areas for change and growth while celebrating and nourishing your strengths, so that you feel clear, calm, and empowered.
(971) 293-2742 View (971) 293-2742
Photo of Katherine Kneupper, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Kneupper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Talk and art therapy are utilized with adolescents and young adults.
I assist children and young adults who are experiencing a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, queer gender and sexuality, parenting, school difficulties, life transitions. I offer caregivers the opportunity to pause, reflect, and consult about their children's patterns of behavior. Discussion with an experienced therapist affords both concrete tools as well as insights that open doors to greater connection with your child or adolescent. I am committed to providing families with the latest evidence based practices, resources, and community support.
Talk and art therapy are utilized with adolescents and young adults.
I assist children and young adults who are experiencing a wide variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, queer gender and sexuality, parenting, school difficulties, life transitions. I offer caregivers the opportunity to pause, reflect, and consult about their children's patterns of behavior. Discussion with an experienced therapist affords both concrete tools as well as insights that open doors to greater connection with your child or adolescent. I am committed to providing families with the latest evidence based practices, resources, and community support.
(971) 385-5457 View (971) 385-5457
Photo of Michael Harley Clark, MA, LAT, CADC-1, Art Therapist
Michael Harley Clark
Art Therapist, MA, LAT, CADC-1
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97236
In therapy sessions I work to develop mindfulness skills through art, talk, and interactions with nature. There are opportunities to process difficult experiences and transform feelings of hurt, fear, and anger into dynamic creativity. I have experience working with individuals who are healing from past trauma, coping with medical issues, managing anger, learning to recognize personal strengths, finding ways to connect to their communities, and developing more creative and joyful lives.”
In therapy sessions I work to develop mindfulness skills through art, talk, and interactions with nature. There are opportunities to process difficult experiences and transform feelings of hurt, fear, and anger into dynamic creativity. I have experience working with individuals who are healing from past trauma, coping with medical issues, managing anger, learning to recognize personal strengths, finding ways to connect to their communities, and developing more creative and joyful lives.”
(503) 809-5723 View (503) 809-5723
Photo of Erin McCall, MEd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin McCall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
My therapy approach is client centered focusing on choice, strengths and exploration. I am committed to helping children work through issues such as anxiety, transitions, emotional regulation, peer relationships, family conflict and self-esteem. I work primarily with children and adolescents using play, art, sand tray and expressive art therapy interventions. I work closely with families who wish to strengthen their child/parent relationship to help better understand the dynamics that make up a family system. I also work with adoptees and LGBTQ youth who struggle with identity issues and help them learn more about who they are.
My therapy approach is client centered focusing on choice, strengths and exploration. I am committed to helping children work through issues such as anxiety, transitions, emotional regulation, peer relationships, family conflict and self-esteem. I work primarily with children and adolescents using play, art, sand tray and expressive art therapy interventions. I work closely with families who wish to strengthen their child/parent relationship to help better understand the dynamics that make up a family system. I also work with adoptees and LGBTQ youth who struggle with identity issues and help them learn more about who they are.
(971) 278-9218 View (971) 278-9218
Photo of Kitty Kloud, MSW, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kitty Kloud
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I support individuals experiencing complex or generational trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which can bring about quick recovery from trauma.
You feel lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed. You may have just received a diagnosis or started to question if you may have ADHD. Or, You may have complex trauma and feel therapy isn't working. If you have struggled healing trauma in the past, are having problems managing your ADHD symptoms, I have proven techniques and skills that will help you take back control in your life and emotional world. Whatever your situation, you deserve relief. Give yourself the chance to thrive.
I support individuals experiencing complex or generational trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which can bring about quick recovery from trauma.
You feel lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed. You may have just received a diagnosis or started to question if you may have ADHD. Or, You may have complex trauma and feel therapy isn't working. If you have struggled healing trauma in the past, are having problems managing your ADHD symptoms, I have proven techniques and skills that will help you take back control in your life and emotional world. Whatever your situation, you deserve relief. Give yourself the chance to thrive.
(503) 832-6218 View (503) 832-6218
Photo of Andrea J. Wright Johnston, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea J. Wright Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Art and play therapy tools are available in sessions to help connect inner thoughts, patterns, and insight.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
Art and play therapy tools are available in sessions to help connect inner thoughts, patterns, and insight.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
(503) 405-4321 View (503) 405-4321
Photo of Katherine 'katie' Wood, MAAT, ATR-P, RYT
Katherine 'katie' Wood
Professional Counselor Associate, MAAT, ATR-P, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Together we will enage in a transformative process, using art therapy as a powerful tool to connect with your authentic self and achieve lasting change.
Hi, I'm Katie Wood, MAAT, Professional Counselor Associate (OR), LMHCA (WA), ATR-P, RYT. We might be a good fit if you are someone who seeks a therapeutic journey encompassing creative exploration, playfulness, and personal expansion. My focus is on guiding clients through a transformative journey, leveraging the power of art and creativity to tap into their inner healing intelligence and navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and social anxiety. I offer a supportive environment where individuals can enhance their self-image, assert boundaries, and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Together we will enage in a transformative process, using art therapy as a powerful tool to connect with your authentic self and achieve lasting change.
Hi, I'm Katie Wood, MAAT, Professional Counselor Associate (OR), LMHCA (WA), ATR-P, RYT. We might be a good fit if you are someone who seeks a therapeutic journey encompassing creative exploration, playfulness, and personal expansion. My focus is on guiding clients through a transformative journey, leveraging the power of art and creativity to tap into their inner healing intelligence and navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and social anxiety. I offer a supportive environment where individuals can enhance their self-image, assert boundaries, and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(971) 253-7907 View (971) 253-7907
Photo of Molly McDavitt - Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC, LAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
(503) 897-1073 View (503) 897-1073
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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.