Expressive Art Therapy

Expressive arts therapy, based on the idea that creative acts can be healing, is a form of psychotherapy that uses art as its primary form of communication. Generally employing multiple types of art in an integrated way (such as imagery, storytelling, drawing, dance, prose, painting, sculpture etc.), expressive arts therapy emphasizes the process of making art rather than the final product. Therapists practicing expressive arts therapy foster a supportive and empathetic relationship with their clients and help them to explore their creativity for its own sake and as a way to nurture personal growth.

Local experts in Expressive Art Therapy

Palma Corral Sotelo (she /her)

Professional Counselor Associate

MA, NCC, PCA

If you find it difficult to verbalize your thoughts and feelings we can work with creative mediums to tap into what seems to be hiding underneath the surface of your experiences and bring them forth into the light of your awareness. Depending on how we meet will determine the mediums that we can use. No previous art experience is necessary, only curiosity and an openness to understanding yourself in new ways.

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Melissa Yeary (she/her)

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC, LMHC, CHT

My training in Expressive Art Therapy supports your exploration of challenges and dreams with images, music, poetry, or movement. As a SoulCollage® facilitator, I offer groups and workshops at PCC and in private sessions. You are welcome to bring in your creative interests, and we will integrate creative expression into your process of self-exploration and change.

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Yael Kievsky (she/her/ella)

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

LMFT

I am trained in expressive arts for trauma processing. Via simple, non-intimidating arts prompts we may find new points of entry into old stories, and source surprising or compelling meaning - on your terms. The arts also provide us with a wealth of tools for embodiment and nervous system regulation, as well as help us leverage our strengths (individual & cultural) for accessing newfound resiliency.

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Lili Micaela

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC Oregon, LMHC Washington

This requires no experience, and it is non-threatening: there is never judgement. For example, I might suggest you make a collage and we would use it as a point of discussion to shed light on your issues.

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Jamie Krahulec (she/they)

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC #C8857

I incorporate sensory experiences into sessions to help people process what’s happening in their world using their own language.

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Lauren Saville (She/They)

Licensed Professional Counselor

C5949

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Alicia Turgesen (She/Her)

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

MA, LMFT

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Steve Hohenboken, LPC, LAT (he/they)

Licensed Professional Counselor

I have a Masters degree in art therapy. However, now that I see clients only via telehealth, I use hands-on art therapy approaches less frequently. Nevertheless I am always interested in helping people find ways that creativity can support their happiness and well-being.

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Jane Flanagan (they/them)

Professional Counselor Associate

Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling

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Amy Altenberger (She/Her)

Licensed Professional Counselor

MA in Art Therapy

I hold a Masters Degree in Expressive Art Therapy and I was an Adjunct Professor in the Graduate Art Therapy Program at Marylhurst University. I incorporate art, movement, breath and mindfulness in our sessions. Talking about trauma can be difficult, art therapy allows you to express yourself and tell your story without using words in a safe non-judgmental space. You don't have to be an artist to use art therapy and we can discuss if this is the right modality for you.

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