So, what is art therapy?
Lets create meaning together
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.

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.
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.
What is most important is that you find a practitioner who feels like a good fit for you.
Learn more about my 1:1 art therapy services


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Can't I just make art on my own?Making art on your own definitely has benefits. Working with an art therapist is different because you have a mental health professional there working through your process with you for when difficult feelings come up and helping set specific goals.
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Do I have to make art in sessions?Nope! Not everyone makes art in the sessions. If you want to have a traditional talk therapy session, we can also do that.
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Do I have to be good at art?Not at all! You do not need to be a professional artist to make art. Art therapy is about expression, not skill.
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Will you tell me what my art means?Nope! I can't tell you because I don't know. Only you can tell me what your art means, even if you don't, we can explore it together. Certain colours or images do not mean certain things about who you are unless you tell me otherwise.
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Are colouring books art therapy?Colouring books are what are considered "art as therapy", where the art itself is a therapeutic act and natural relaxing benefits. This is different from art therapy where you are working with a mental health professional.
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Is art therapy just for kids?Art therapy is for all ages!
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Is this like an art class? Will you teach me art skills?Nope! This is not an art class and I will not be teaching you art skills. I can show you different ways that you can utilize art in your own process, but art skills is not the purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions


Reaching out is a big step. It is so amazing that you are already here. I offer a free phone consultation for anyone wanting to explore if working together might be a good fit.
Can't wait to hear from you!


Want to see more?
If you're interested in seeing more art therapy, anxiety, burnout and compassion based content, I regularly post on Instagram and TikTok @birchwoodarttherapy! See you there!
