At Wholesome Psychology, we value the profound transformations that creativity and expression can spark in our lives. Art therapy offers children, teens, and adults in Edmonton and St. Albert a supportive space where art and counseling unite as powerful tools. Whether you’re navigating emotional challenges, searching for new ways to communicate, or seeking personal growth, our compassionate therapists use art therapy to help unlock your inner strengths and foster authentic healing. Learn more about our services in these communities.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a unique, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that uses visual arts within a therapeutic context. Guided by a qualified psychologist or therapist, you’re encouraged to express thoughts and feelings through creative processes such as painting, drawing, or sculpting. Unlike traditional talk therapy, art therapy doesn’t depend solely on words, making it especially helpful for clients who might struggle to verbalize their experiences or emotions.
At our Edmonton and St. Albert practices, art therapy is a respectful, non-judgmental process that puts your individuality at the forefront. Sessions may range from guided drawing exercises to collaborative art projects, always tailored to your personal needs and comfort level. Curious about our approach? See our unique approach.
Who Can Benefit from Art Therapy?
Art therapy is suitable for people of all ages. You don’t need to be an experienced artist—everyone has creative potential, and the goal is expression, not perfection. Our therapists support you in using art as a means of self-discovery and emotional release.
- Children and youth: Art therapy often helps young clients process complicated feelings, behavioral challenges, trauma, or changes at home or school. If you’re interested in support for children, visit our page on children’s mental health.
- Teens: For adolescents coping with anxiety, self-esteem issues, or stress, art therapy offers a safe outlet for emotions and helps develop healthy coping skills. Learn more about teen therapy for youth 13–15 years and teens’ mental health.
- Adults: Whether facing depression, grief, workplace stress, or just feeling "stuck," adults benefit from the creative and reflective processes fostered by art therapy. Read about our adult counseling options.
- Seniors: Older adults can use art to process life transitions, feelings of loss, or chronic health issues, while boosting cognitive and emotional resilience. We also offer support for seniors.
Common Challenges Addressed by Art Therapy
Our art therapists are trained to help with a wide array of mental health concerns. Some of the common challenges we address with art therapy at our Edmonton and St. Albert locations include:
For more information about counseling for youth and self-esteem, explore our work on child and youth self-esteem issues or emotional regulation.
Our Art Therapy Process
At Wholesome Psychology, we create a warm, inclusive space that honors your strengths, values diversity, and encourages authentic self-expression. Here’s what to expect from art therapy with us:
- Personalized Assessment: We start with a collaborative conversation to understand your story, goals, and preferences. Every journey in art therapy is unique, so our assessment and treatment plans reflect your individual needs. Read more about getting started.
- Creative Exploration: Guided by your interests and comfort, our therapists introduce creative materials and techniques suited to your age and therapeutic goals. This could include painting, collage, clay, or even digital art.
- Therapeutic Conversations: While the art piece itself is meaningful, your feelings and insights during the process are equally valuable. Our therapists help you make connections between your art and your emotions, fostering personal growth and resilience.
- Strength-Based Growth: We focus on building your natural strengths—using creativity to enhance self-awareness, improve coping skills, and boost emotional well-being.
All sessions are confidential and paced according to your readiness. Our art therapy approach is grounded in respect, inclusivity, and the belief that each story matters.
Why Choose Art Therapy at Wholesome Psychology?
- Local expertise: Our Edmonton and St. Albert counseling team includes skilled therapists experienced in art therapy and a variety of expressive therapies.
- Evidence-based approaches: We integrate the latest developments in art therapy research to ensure effective, ethical care.
- Holistic care: Art therapy is just one aspect of our support. We collaborate across specialties to ensure you have access to a range of therapists and mental health professionals that reflect your needs and goals.
- Community-centered values: As a boutique practice rooted in Edmonton and St. Albert, we’re committed to cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and supporting families, youth, and adults in our diverse local communities. See more about our community approach.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Your first art therapy session is centered on comfort and curiosity. You’ll meet with your therapist in a welcoming, stigma-free environment. After discussing your goals and interests, you’ll be introduced to different artistic materials and processes. There’s no such thing as “right” or “wrong” art—just your genuine expression and growth.
Art therapy sessions are available in-person at our Edmonton and St. Albert clinics, with the flexibility of virtual options when appropriate. We also offer online counseling for clients who prefer the privacy and convenience of remote sessions.
See our information on North Edmonton and St. Albert Campbell Park clinic locations.
Art Therapy for Trauma & Emotional Healing
Art therapy is proven, alongside other therapies, to help clients process trauma and build emotional resilience. For those seeking deeper work around trauma, our team offers trauma therapy to complement the creative process. Whether you have experienced childhood trauma, loss, or ongoing stress, art therapy helps you express what words cannot, transforming pain into hope and renewal. Learn more about PTSD & trauma therapy.
Counseling Services for All Ages
Art therapy can stand alone or be combined with other therapy methods depending on your needs. We offer:
Meet Our Art Therapists
Our diverse team includes clinicians trained in art therapy, all of whom are passionate about supporting clients creatively. Meet our therapists to find the right match for you or your family member. Our therapists honor every client’s story and understand the unique needs of our local Edmonton and St. Albert communities. Learn more about each therapist here.
Get Started With Art Therapy in Edmonton & St. Albert
If you’re ready to explore the healing power of art or have questions about whether art therapy is right for you or a loved one, we’re here to help. Our approachable team can guide you through the process and answer any questions. Reach out today to take the first step on your creative counseling journey. See our contact page to get started.
Contact Wholesome Psychology in Edmonton and St. Albert now to book your initial art therapy session.
