Psychology Today states, "Expressive arts therapy combines psychology and the creative process to promote emotional growth and healing. This multi-arts, or intermodal, approach to psychotherapy and counseling uses our inborn desire to create; such a therapeutic tool can help initiate change. For some people who have a hard time articulating what they are feeling, self-expression through art can be useful. Expressive arts therapy draws from a variety of art forms, and this integration of methods can help patients access their emotions." 

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Expressive arts therapy is a powerful approach used to foster personal growth and transformation in individuals, both children and adults, either individually or in group settings. This therapeutic method utilizes various art forms to facilitate self-expression and emotional exploration. For example, children struggling with behavioral issues can engage in activities like music, movement, or finger painting as part of expressive arts therapy, enabling them to communicate their emotions when verbalizing becomes challenging.

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Expressive arts therapy encompasses a wide range of creative techniques, such as journaling, storytelling, reading literature and poetry, creating life maps, videos, and memory books. These modalities are particularly beneficial for adult clients, offering them the opportunity to reflect upon their lives, find meaning, and heal from traumatic experiences. Moreover, this form of therapy enhances relationships with family and significant individuals in their lives.

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The beauty of expressive arts therapy lies in its ability to engage multiple senses, encouraging exploration of both inner and outer worlds. Working alongside a skilled therapist or counselor, you can effectively communicate your feelings about the artistic process and its outcomes. Together, you delve into the creative journey, illuminating and analyzing challenges and difficulties. It is important to note that proficiency in the arts is not a prerequisite for this therapeutic approach; the focus is on the creative process rather than the final result. Throughout the therapy, you discover novel ways to utilize the nonverbal language of creativity, unveiling inner emotions that may have remained inaccessible through mere thoughts or conversations.

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At the heart of expressive arts therapy is the concept of poiesis, derived from the Greek root word for poetry. It encapsulates the natural progression from everyday expectations to the realm of imagination and creativity, culminating in the creation of art. By tapping into your innermost emotional depths, creative endeavors facilitate a profound journey of self-discovery and comprehension. The creative process becomes a conduit for expressing inner feelings, paving the way to emotional well-being and self-awareness.

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Questions about expressive arts therapy, its effectiveness, and its application are not only allowed but welcome since it is difficult to conceptualize from simply a few paragraphs. Please contact Primary Expressive Arts Therapist, Anastasia Canfield, at anastasia.mtbc@gmail.com or at the form below.

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You may also schedule a consult with her here: app.simplymeet.me/anastasiacanfield/freeconsultation

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WAITLISTING ONLY FOR THIS SERVICE

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Initial out-of-pocket session: FREE

Second session and beyond: $100

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Mines & Associates EAP accepted

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Insurances accepted:

Aetna

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

Cigna

Kaiser Permanente

Oscar

Oxford

United

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