Art Therapy is a mental health modality where a client uses art materials with a Master's-level Art Therapist for healing. There are over 5,000 Registered Art Therapists in the United States through the American Art Therapy Association and Art Therapy Credentials Board. Clients seek out Art Therapy for the same reasons they seek out other modalities for mental health support; however, clients are often looking for a deeper, more meaningful, and more interesting experience.
Art Therapy is worldwide. Art Therapy is licensed in about 16 states, and advocating for an Art Therapy license in Michigan is in the works. Art Therapy dates back to the 1920s and is practiced in a variety of environments with a range of populations for different reasons. I provide individual sessions virtually. For more information about the field, I encourage you to visit my Resources page.
During sessions, clients use the materials to communicate, be creative for stress relief, express emotion, or process a problem. In the majority of sessions, there is always some verbal discussion with the Art Therapist. The art-making and conversing between the client and the Art Therapist is all confidential, just as with talk psychotherapy.
Yes, of course! I am trained in counseling and Art Therapy—sometimes that's what's needed. I do offer up some art-making in sessions, as that is my job (why I view you are coming to me vs. a talk psychotherapist), but I am here for you and whatever moves things along—at your pace.
No and yes. Part of my role is meeting you where you are at (it's one of my favorite parts of my job!)—learning what interests you and sparks your creativity all along the way. Everyone, regardless of past experience, can tap into their curiosity, problem-solving, and willingness to try something new, and I will support and honor your growth. If it helps, the session is more for processing your experience, life, emotions, relationships, problems, issues, and perspective (mental health) than it is about making fine art. In fact, ugly art—or work you're not in love with—is encouraged and is very often the most illuminating!
The kinds of art materials and directives utilized evolve throughout your treatment and our time together and are based on a variety of factors. What takes place depends on factors such as your needs and interests, my therapeutic approach, the materials available, the environment, and our bond/relationship. It is a journey where no two sessions will be the same. There is more information on the About Me page to give you an idea of what sessions are like with me. I also send along plenty of information when we connect through email and get started.
We'll talk about what brings you in and what goals you have. We'll talk about materials/processes/art directives, and you will make art for the bulk of the time. Then, we will verbally go through what your experience was like and close the session thinking about where to go next.
Some of the directives and materials I enjoy suggesting are dream recall, mask making, mandalas, wreaths and bowls, ongoing canvas pieces, collage, altered books/journals, photography, life review, painted objects, self-portrait work, pastels, clay, watercolor, drawing, and sewing or fabric work. I love mixed materials! We'll figure out a starting point and go from there—a pencil and a piece of paper is a great beginning! I can provide structure or you can take off with what speaks to you, exploring any path/material/process/idea/feeling that gives you the space to creatively heal.
Yes! Many clients are surprised by how supported, detailed, and meaningful their experience is. As a part of my profession, I am familiar with the materials you are using and can assist or understand what's working or not working artistically/creatively. I enjoy offering virtual sessions because they provide flexibility for those who don't want to rearrange their lives, and it helps me connect with people all over Michigan.
Because we are virtual, you will need to have what you want to create with. I do not mail out materials. I do send along very affordable recommendations (if you want to purchase something new); however, the reality is most of my clients just gather up what they've already got in the house, and that works perfectly to get started.
We discuss this and plan ahead; I want you and your piece to be protected and valued for what it means to you.
I set up a treatment plan and we establish goals so that things feel progressive and productive. I will bring up these goals after about 3 sessions and then again at 6–8 sessions so that problems and solutions are touched upon. Most people find the process so rewarding and meaningful that they forget the goals and end up feeling centered, present, and at ease after engaging in their creative process.
Okay—I think I'm ready to give this a try and book my consult with you HERE!
Great =) If you have further questions, the consult is a great place to ask them. Hope to meet you soon!