Frequently Asked Question
If you are curious about integrating more art therapy into our sessions, here are some frequently asked questions to help demystify the experience.
Q. I would like to try art therapy but I really need to talk about my concerns. Can I do both?
A. In art therapy, talking is just as important as art making. In fact, art holds no meaning in the session until the client gives it meaning by speaking about the imagery and what it represents.
Q. Do we have to use art therapy in every session?
A. No, we don’t. Depending on your needs that day, we can choose to do art therapy or traditional verbal therapy. Trying art therapy does not lock you into using this modality for every session. In addition to art therapy I have additional training and experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Q. I’ve been through so much, Do you think art therapy can help?
A. Art therapy supports trauma recovery by engaging the brain's emotional and cognitive processes. It activates the right hemisphere for nonverbal expression, calms the limbic system to reduce fear responses, and promotes neuroplasticity for healthier thought patterns. By strengthening the prefrontal cortex, it improves emotional regulation and decision-making. Art therapy also helps integrate fragmented traumatic memories, induces a calming "flow state," and lowers cortisol levels, fostering relaxation
Q. Do you analyze me through my art?
A. The person who creates the art is the one who dictates its meaning. At the same time, my training allows me to look at artwork to develop more questions for the client so they can explore additional and more unconscious details to their artwork. Similar to a verbal therapist, questions are asked that help guide the client to a greater sense of clarity.
Q. Do you need to know how to draw to participate in art therapy?
A. No prior art experience or skill is necessary to participate in art therapy.
Q. In my culture, drawing the human figure is not allowed. Can I still participate in art therapy?
A. Absolutely, if there are drawing topics or materials that conflict with your religion, culture, or cause discomfort, they are avoided. Since each session is individually tailored to your unique needs, you will be encouraged to share any pertinent information in the first session.
Q. Isn’t art making just for children?
A. True...and adults! Art making is incredibly important for adults as it helps to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Engaging in forms of creativity also helps people to think “outside the box” when problem solving in professional and personal settings.