Frequently Asked Questions

Art Therapy combines psychotherapy with the benefits of the creative process.

Some examples of how art can support your psychotherapy journey include:

• Being able to visualize and externalize a feeling or experience

• Discovering a new coping strategy or personal resource

• Experiencing catharsis (psychological relief) through movement or expression

• Supporting your nervous system

• Developing a personal creative practice

• Communicating through nonverbal expression

• Accessing play, creativity, curiosity, and insight

These are only a few examples. We will work together to discover how art can best support you (because it’s different for everyone).

Explore my approach to Art Therapy here.

In addition to art psychotherapy for individuals, I also facilitate “Art-as-Therapy” and “Therapeutic Art.” Often in a group setting, these are non-clinical practices where we work within a narrower scope of practice. The primary focus is on the benefits of engaging in creativity or creating in community.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself which may help you decide if art therapy is a good fit. If any of these questions resonate with you, let’s chat so we can take a closer look.

• Am I looking for a therapist and interested in trying something new?

• Would I find it meaningful to add a visual or creative element to my therapeutic process?

• Am I open to using creativity as part of my process to understand or express emotions and experiences?

• Do I feel curious about how engaging with art might support my personal growth or wellbeing?

• Do I feel drawn to exploring my inner world through creative or visual expression?
  

If what you’re reading here resonates, you can contact me with any questions, or book a free meet and greet so we can chat and determine if it’s a good fit.

I know the journey of finding a therapist might be long and challenging. I’m honoured to be part of your search, and I hope my website helps bring some ease to your process.

Above all, my priority is for you to find the right fit, and that may not be me, and that’s completely OK. I’m proud to be part of the Art Therapy community and hold my colleagues in high regard. I trust you’ll find the support you need, with someone who aligns with you.

Looking for Other Art Therapists:

• The Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) website has a directory you may find helpful.

• Psychology Today also offers a directory where you can filter specifically for Art Therapy.

• Additionally, schools recognized by CATA often have group or individual sessions led by graduate students, which can be free or highly subsidized.

Meet & Greet (10-20 minutes):

• We will talk for about 10-20 minutes so you can ask questions and we have the opportunity to meet each other. There is no expectation to book a session after this. If it seems like a good fit in both directions, we can schedule your first session.

Your First Session (60 minutes):
In your first session, we’ll focus on:

• Sharing your story and defining your therapeutic goals

• Exploring what art-making might look like for you (which can evolve over time)

• Reviewing policies, consent, and confidentiality

• Answering any questions to ensure you're comfortable and informed

Typical Session (60-90 minutes):
Our time together is designed to flow based on where you are in that moment. There’s no expectation for how you need to show up; I’m here to support you, wherever you are.

Art Review (60-90 minutes):
An art review can be a helpful way to reflect on your journey. If this feels right for you after a number of sessions, we'll review the artwork you've created. This process may offer an insightful perspective on your therapeutic path.

An art review can also be a time for setting fresh goals to continue with a renewed focus, or finding a natural closing. The decision is yours, allowing the process to unfold at your own pace.

In Canada, clinical Art Therapy is facilitated by a Professional Art Therapist who has completed a graduate level program recognized by the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA).

In the province of Ontario, to practice the controlled act of psychotherapy, an Art Therapist must be registered as an authorized professional.

The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) is one regulatory body that authorizes professionals through the credentials of Registered Psychotherapist or Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying).

Five other professions are authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy in Ontario including: nurses, occupational therapists, physicians, psychologists and/or psychological associates, and social workers and/or social service workers.

I love facilitating groups and holding space where we can create in community. Visit my GROUPS page for more information and to register for these programs.

• I run online therapeutic art workshops.

• I offer various multi-session groups where we can dive deeper into a theme or build a community of support around a shared experience.

I also design and facilitate online and in-person workshops for non-profit and corporate organizations who are looking to support their staff, leadership, artists, or clients. Contact me if you’re an organization who would like to bring therapeutic art to your company.

Yes! This answer is for anyone who has come across letter abbreviations used by mental health professionals that might not be familiar. You're always welcome to ask about them. Credentials reflect your therapists education and which professional bodies regulate their services to protect your experience.

I graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Science (HBSc) in Psychology from the University of Toronto.

My title is Professional Art Therapist because I completed the Art Psychotherapy Diploma program at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT). This diploma, abbreviated as DCiiAT, is recognized by the Canadian Art Therapy Association.

In Ontario, I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), or RP(Q). This means my practice is regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and I’m authorized to practice the controlled act of psychotherapy.

You might also see some art therapists with the “RCAT” designation, which stands for Registered Canadian Art Therapist, given by the Canadian Art Therapy Association. I’m working toward the requirements to apply for this designation.