art as therapy.

what is it.

Therapeutic art refers to the use of creative visual expression—such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage—as a tool for emotional healing, personal growth, and mental well-being.

It focuses on the process of making art for personal expression and emotional relief, without diagnosis or formal therapy.

  1. Accessible to anyone—no artistic skill is required.

  2. Common in workshops, support groups, or personal journaling practices.

  3. Promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and self-reflection.

how does it work?

Art in therapy provides a powerful means of expressing thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. Working with a trained recreation therapist that specializes in trauma informed expressive arts allows individuals to explore their feelings freely, while maintaining a structured focus on mental and emotional well-being.

Through the use of diverse materials—such as paint, clay, or collage—clients engage in a creative process that is both intentional and self-directed. This hands-on experience activates the senses and helps generate imagery closely connected to the client’s inner emotional world.

Unlike traditional art classes, which emphasize technique and the completion of a specific product, art therapy prioritizes the creative process itself. The goal is not artistic skill, but rather personal insight, emotional release, and healing. It invites individuals to connect with their inner experience in a safe, supportive environment.

FAQs

Is an recreation therapist a licensed mental health counselor?

No. A recreation therapist is a certified professional who uses recreational and leisure activities as a form of therapy to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being.

They assess each person’s needs and create individualized treatment plans using recreation as a therapeutic tool. The aim is to improve quality of life and help clients engage more fully with everyday life.

I hold a master’s degree in recreation therapy with credentials in trauma-informed expressive arts and have been practicing for over thirteen tears. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and hold training specifically in the practice of using art-making as a vital tool in therapy.

How does therapeutic art help?

Therapeutic art coupled with traditional clinical mental health counseling provides a safe place where patients can explore unpleasant emotions such as anger, sadness, stress, or fear.

What Should I Expect?

Every therapeutic relationship begins with a thorough assessment to determine needs, strengths and areas to improve. This allows for a more person-centered approach and provides the client with autonomy.

You can expect a comfortable environment with art supplies and a place to introduce yourself before sharing what brings you into the session.

Your sessions could potentially include activities such as working with clay, painting, creating a visual journal, and assembling a collage or other mediums.

Do I already have to be “good” at art to succeed?

People do not need to have artistic ability or special training to participate in therapeutic art practice and people of all ages including children, teens, and adults can benefit from it.

therapeutic art 1:1 Pricing

Sessions in therapeutic art creates space for you to experience healing and progress in a way that can change your life. But of course, it’s also an investment of both time and finances. When you’re ready to commit to healing and transformation, here is what you can expect.

Standard individual session
(50 minutes) $150

*limited sliding scale spots at a discounted rate for individuals with financial need

*virtual service options available

Recreational therapy services coverage is generally determined by regulations governing the site of service delivery. In some settings, Medicare and Medicaid may cover recreation therapy. If you have out of network benefits that will cover therapeutic art or RT services, we can provide documentation that you can self-submit to your insurance provider to request reimbursement. We cannot guarantee whether you will be reimbursed by your insurance provider.

You may choose to pay for recreational therapy services privately (especially if you have an HSA Account), allowing for more flexibility and quicker access to service.

testimonials.

  • "Truly thank you for creating a safe space for me to get through this rough transition and helping me find my voice! I feel like I've had the biggest awakening, healing and slowly have been introducing crafting and art back into my life."

  • "You and your art journaling classes have inspired me to start up my own purpose, I feel such a humble gratitude to you; thank you. It's helped my own healing journey."

  • "I highly recommend Ashley, especially her art journaling sessions if you feel lost in finding your identity. It's the ultimate form of self care to take time to get to know yourself again."