Art Therapy

Art therapy uses creative expression to help explore and process thoughts and emotions. Emotions are often stored in non-verbal memory, the art making process can encourage access to feelings that words may not describe. Children, teens and adults can all benefit from the use of art to support engagement in treatment.

Art therapy is a means of communication to share about anxiety, trauma, social challenges and family transitions. Art is also a method to build skills, have fun and feel creative and capable.

I practice art therapy in conjunction with talk therapy during individual or family sessions. I support and witness the process of art making and explore the emotions expressed to help my clients to make deeper connections.

Learn More through the Art Therapy Credentials Board

Play Therapy 

Play therapy is a form of therapy that is primarily used with children aged 4 to 12 years old. Similar to art in therapy, play is a means of communication and expression to help children cope with emotional and behavioral difficulties. The goal of play therapy is to help children resolve their problems, improve their self-esteem, and develop new and effective coping skills.

Children are not just little adults and they process the world through their own lens. Play therapy is based on the belief that play is the natural language of children, and that they can use play to work through their stories and concerns in a way that is comfortable and familiar to them. By allowing children to express themselves through play, they can develop a better understanding of their emotions and learn how to express themselves in healthy ways. They can build a safe relationship with the therapist and explore boundaries that are supportive.

I engage with clients during play and also observe the child's play to inform my understanding of the child and family’s thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Toys and games are selected per the client’s needs to encourage expression and engagement.