Art therapy will allow you to explore your emotions, narratives, memories, and subconscious in a gentle, non-confrontational way.

A unique cross between both art and traditional talk therapy/counselling, art therapy is a mental health counselling specialty that integrates the creative process of art-making as the primary source for self-reflection, self-expression, and self-discovery.

Our creativity and imagination are pretty powerful things; they often allow for parts of our subconscious to surface.


with ART at the heart of it.

psychotherapy —

the creative healing process
What is art therapy?

  • 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 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.

  • 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 proven to support mental health and feelings of distress.

    Art therapy can assist with a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. It's often used to address issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties.

  • 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.

  • The number of sessions needed can vary based on 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.

Is art therapy covered by insurance?

  • During your initial session, the art therapist will likely spend time getting to know you, discussing your goals, and explaining how the process works. You might also start engaging in simple art activities to ease into the therapeutic experience.

    As we get to know each other and sessions progress, we will dive into different art invitations that will support you with what you’re wanting to work on.

  • Art therapists typically provide a range of materials, including paints, pastels, clay, markers, and more. The choice of materials can be tailored to your preferences and needs.

    If you’re at home and having a virtual session, you don’t need anything fancy! Just something to make some marks with and have some fun.

  • Sharing your artwork is optional. The therapist may invite you to discuss your creations, but it's up to you to decide how much you want to share. the art is just a jumping off point for us to discuss, and the art therapist can lead you through a process to derive your own meaning from the art work. you can share as little or as much as you want - in both groups and individual sessions.

  • Art therapy can be done both individually and in group settings. The choice depends on your comfort level and the therapeutic goals you have.

  • Art therapy sessions can be anywhere from 1, 1.5, or 2 hours long. groups can even be for 3 hours or a whole day long workshop.

    The frequency of sessions can vary, and it's something you can discuss with your art therapist.

  • Art therapists are trained to help you explore your feelings and experiences through your artwork, but they won't interpret it in the same way an art critic might. The focus of our sessions is on helping you find your personal interpretation and what the art and the process you underwent means to you.

  • Yes, art therapy can be effective in addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem concerns, and more. It provides a unique avenue for processing emotions and experiences.

  • Some insurance plans in Canada may cover art therapy! It's recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

    If you are in the states of worldwide it is unlikely that my services will be reimbursed, but we can still work together.

    In Canada insurance reimbursement for art therapy happens for:

    Alberta Blue Cross

    Alberta School Employee

    Canada Life | Great-West Life

    CVAP | Crime Victim

    Equitable Life of Canada

    Green Shield Canada

    iA Financial Group

    Pacific Blue Cross

    SunLife

    Victor Insurance

an art therapy session might look like —

  • check in

    When you arrive at your session in-person, everything you need will be there. If you’re joining virtually, you just need some basic supplies.

    We start with a conversational check-in. I will ask you about your day, your week, how you've been feeling in your body recently. Together we explore what’s coming up for you and what brought you to your session today.

  • creative process

    What we express during check-in often guides us naturally into a creative process. I invite you to use the materials you are drawn to and create spontaneous art which respond to your thoughts and emotions right now. In some sessions you may receive a more structured directive (an example could be, 'what does this emotion feel like and look like in your mind?'.

    I am here to guide you through the therapeutic art making process.

  • process & debrief

    when your creative process feels complete, we take some time to reflect on your experience and witness what emerged for you. maybe it felt inspiring or uncomfortable or boring - maybe it made you sad, brought back memories, or made you feel better than when you came in - it is all okay.

    together, we find a way to integrate all of your insights into the rest of your life.

ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS?

book your complimentary consultation call

During your free initial consultation, we can discuss any questions you may have, and begin to explore your intentions starting art therapy. There is no-pressure to commit, just an opportunity for you to explore what feels right.