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So, what is art therapy?

If you're not sure what art therapy is...

...you're not alone. Art therapy is an alternative style of therapy opposed to traditional talk therapy. Art therapy is where art and psychotherapy meet. Your art therapist is trained in psychotherapy, but uses arts-based interventions. This means we use art and creativity as a way to help you reach your goals. 

In Canada art therapists follow the ethics and standards set out by the Canadian Art Therapy Association. In Ontario art therapists also follow the standards set out by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.



 

Learn more about working together

Okay, but what happens in an art therapy session?



An art therapy session is going to look different for everyone depending on your reasons for coming to therapy. You are a unique individual and therapy isn't one size fits all. We work together to find an approach that feels like a good fi for you. We check in, we discuss, we make art. Sometimes there is a lot more discussion and sometimes we are more quiet and focused on the art-making process. Both have their benefits. 


 

Below is a general outline of what an art therapy session MAY look like:



Check in together and decide on where you would like to focus the session.

 



Art-Making time. Created spontaneously or directed.

 



Reflection and Discussion. We review the art made, any insights or emotions.

 



Remember, this time is for you. Above is just a general structure. I want you to feel empowered to tell me what you need each session. Through our time together we will continue to check-in and re-evaluate goals as needed. We use our first intake session together to set initial goals and come up with a plan that works for you. 

 

Art therapist reaching towards a shelf of paint and grabbing a bottle

Is art therapy for you?

There are a couple misconceptions about art therapy. Firstly, art therapy is for all ages, kids, adults and seniors. Secondly, you do not need to have any art experience to participate in art therapy.

Art therapy is about the process and not the product.

Art therapy might be a good fit for you if you have tried talk-based therapies and are feeling stuck, if you are looking for a more somatic based practice, if you have difficulty putting your feelings into words or are interested in getting connected with your creative self and learning about the impact this has on your mental health.

I use a blend of approaches that include art therapy, talk therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness techniques and CBT.


 

A no pressure call, to see if this feels right for you

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in worry, or exhausted by a racing mind, you deserve a space where you can slow down and feel supported. If you’re ready to reach out for a creative, warm, and collaborative therapy experience, know that I’m proud of you for taking this step.

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I know it’s not easy to ask for help, and I truly look forward to connecting with you when you’re ready.

A no pressure call, to see if this feels right for you

First Steps Questionnaire 

This questionnaire asks questions about your current experience to let me know what exactly you are looking for. A low-stress first step for you. Once this form is filled out you will be contacted by e-mail within 24-48 hours to discuss setting up a time for a free consultation. No pressure, no commitment. Just working together to find the next best steps for you. 

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I respectfully acknowledge that I live and work on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Sinixt, Ktunaxa, and Syilx (Okanagan) Peoples. I am grateful to be a guest on this land and commit to ongoing learning, reflection, and actions in support of truth and reconciliation

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Please note that I am not a crisis or emergency mental health service. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent emotional support, please call or text 9-8-8, Canada’s 24/7 Suicide Crisis Helpline

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