What is Expressive Arts Therapy?
Expressive Arts uses imagination and the arts to heal, transform, and explore. Because the arts engage the whole self, together we are often able to access resources and perspectives that had previously been invisible. Expressive arts can be very effective for people for whom talk therapy has been unsuccessful, as well as for children and families. Clients often report that this way of working allows the thinking mind to “get out of the way” to allow something new to emerge.
Do I have to be an artist to benefit from Expressive Arts Therapy?
I work with kids, adults, and families with a wide range of artistic experience and ability. In fact, reclaiming one’s creativity is often a surprising and very healing side-effect of this work. Oftentimes the people who are most resistant to the arts benefit from it enormously.
What should I expect in an Expressive Arts Therapy session?
Usually we begin by talking together, before moving into the art studio. Once we are in the studio, we might use any art forms including paint, sculpture, movement / dance, sound, storytelling and poetry. Finally, we step out and reflect on that experience, drawing connections back to what the client came in with. It’s also possible that we may talk for the duration of the session, especially at the beginning of working together.
Do we talk in an expressive arts therapy session?
Yes we do. It’s important that we discuss the difficulty before we move into the arts. In some sessions, particularly in the early stages of working together, we may even talk for the duration of the session.
Are you covered by my extended health insurance plan?
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada and my services are covered by some extended insurance plans. Please contact your insurance company to find out if this is covered.
Rates:
Normal session rates are $90/session +GST. If this is not possible for you, I do make exceptions for low income and extenuating circumstances. Please discuss with me before your session and I will do my best to ensure that therapy remains accessible to you.
What if I have more questions?
Please feel free to contact me either by email or phone.