Art therapy is an integrative form of psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that combines traditional psychotherapy with artistic expression - rooted in the idea that creative self expression fosters healing, personal development and holistic well-being. It involves using various art mediums and techniques to help individuals explore their emotions, thoughts, and inner experiences.

Art therapists don’t critique or diagnose you from your art, rather we use the art as a jumping off point for you to explore your own inner world and feelings. The art therapist will help you find personal meaning of your art and support you to integrate it’s messages into your life.

Art therapists are trained mental health professionals with a minimum of a master’s level degree who are trained to support you professionally and safely in your healing journey. Art therapists in Canada work within the ethical framework of the Canadian Art Therapy Association.

And yes, like other forms of therapy, art therapy sessions are confidential. The therapist maintains professional standards and ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and confidentiality.

Art therapy provides a safe space to express feelings that might be difficult to put into words. The art created during sessions can serve as a visual representation of inner thoughts and emotions, allowing the therapist to guide exploration and discussion. You do not have to identify as creative to benefit, just have a willingness to explore your inherent creative spirit.

Through the art of self-expression and inner exploration, you can unlock your potential, find healing, and align with your authentic self. Art is also inherently stress relieving, and the process of art therapy has been scientifically proven to support holistic wellbeing.

If you’re looking for support through depression, anxiety, anger, grief, life transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, or are seeking self exploration and personal growth - art therapy helps

No artistic skill or previous art experience is required to benefit from art therapy! The focus is on the process of creation and self-expression rather than the end result.

While both involve therapeutic discussions, art therapy introduces artistic expression as an additional means of communication and exploration. It can often help individuals access deeper emotions and insights that might not easily surface through traditional talk alone.

Art acts like a mirror to our subconscious and helps us bring deeper emotions, memories and insights than just talking about things. It’s a really magical thing.

6 weekly is a great place to start!

The number of sessions needed can vary based on your individual goals and needs. Some people may start to notice positive changes after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term engagement.

Most art therapists provide a variety of art supplies for their clients. At Discover Art Therapy we provide a number of high quality artist materials and supplies for you to use freely to make art! However, if you have a preferred medium or certain materials you'd like to use, you can certainly bring them to your sessions.

If we work together online, you should have some basic art supplies at home but no need to get anything fancy if you don’t want to! We can make therapeutic art with even just a pencil.