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Art Supplies Assortment

Art Therapy at The Therapy Place, Nanaimo

Sometimes words aren't enough.  Art therapy offers a powerful, creative way to explore emotions, reduce stress, and support healing—without needing to have the “right” words.

Child Painting Joyfully

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy combines the therapeutic process with creative expression. Using materials such as drawing, painting, collage, and other art forms, clients are supported in exploring thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non‑judgmental way.

You do not need to be artistic or creative to benefit. The focus is not on the finished artwork, but on the process, meaning, and emotions that arise while creating.

Art therapy can be used on its own or integrated with talk therapy, depending on your needs and goals.

art therapist at work in an office.jpg

What Makes Art Therapy Unique?

  • No artistic skill required

  • Gentle, client‑led exploration

  • Supports both emotional expression and insight

  • Engaging, creative, and empowering

  • Adaptable to individual needs and comfort levels

Art therapy honours that healing can happen in many forms—and creativity is one of them.

Crafting Beaded Jewelry

Who is Art Therapy For?

Art therapy can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Anxiety or depression

  • Trauma or PTSD

  • Grief and loss

  • Stress or burnout

  • Emotional regulation challenges

  • Self‑esteem or identity exploration

  • Life transitions

  • Relationship difficulties

The Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy can be especially helpful when emotions feel overwhelming, complex, or difficult to describe. Benefits may include:

  • Accessing emotions beyond words
    Creative expression can reach feelings that are hard to verbalize.

  • Reducing stress and anxiety
    Engaging in art can be calming and grounding for the nervous system.

  • Processing trauma and difficult experiences
    Art offers a gentle and indirect way to explore past and present challenges.

  • Improving emotional regulation
    Clients often build greater awareness of emotions and learn new coping strategies.

  • Enhancing self‑esteem and self‑understanding
    Creating art can foster insight, confidence, and a sense of empowerment.

  • Supporting personal growth and healing
    Art therapy encourages reflection, curiosity, and meaningful change at your own pace.

The Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy can be especially helpful when emotions feel overwhelming, complex, or difficult to describe. Benefits may include:

  • Accessing emotions beyond words
    Creative expression can reach feelings that are hard to verbalize.

  • Reducing stress and anxiety
    Engaging in art can be calming and grounding for the nervous system.

  • Processing trauma and difficult experiences
    Art offers a gentle and indirect way to explore past and present challenges.

  • Improving emotional regulation
    Clients often build greater awareness of emotions and learn new coping strategies.

  • Enhancing self‑esteem and self‑understanding
    Creating art can foster insight, confidence, and a sense of empowerment.

  • Supporting personal growth and healing
    Art therapy encourages reflection, curiosity, and meaningful change at your own pace.

Art Therapy for Children

For children, art therapy offers a natural and developmentally appropriate way to express feelings, build emotional awareness, and develop coping skills—especially when talking feels difficult or intimidating.

Girl Holding Origami
Artist with Paintbrushes
Art Therapy for Adults

Adults often find art therapy helpful when they feel “stuck” in traditional talk therapy, want to explore emotions more deeply, or are looking for a creative and reflective therapeutic experience.

Insurance Coverage

Art therapy sessions at The Therapy Place Counselling Group are provided by Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs).
As a result, sessions are eligible for reimbursement under most extended health insurance plans that cover counselling with Registered Clinical Counsellors.

We encourage you to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details.

Get Started with Art Therapy

If you’re curious about whether art therapy is right for you or your child, we’re happy to help. Our counsellors will work with you to create a supportive, individualized approach that fits your goals and comfort level.

Contact us today to learn more or book an appointment.

Meet Lydia Weisner (RCC), our amazing, talented, and fun Art Therapist!
Lydia Weisner PNG.png
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