At Wholesome Psychology, We appreciate that creativity and expression create joy and happiness in our lives. Art therapy is suitable for Adults, children, and teens,. Wholesome provides ART therapy in Edmonton and St. Albert. We create a safe and compassionate space that allows individuals to freely express themselves. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety or wanting to learn new ways to communicate, ART therapy may be a good fit for you. Our therapists use art therapy to help you on your journey to improve mental health and well-being. Learn more about our services here.

What Is Art Therapy?

Art therapy evidence-based form of psychotherapy. ART therapy uses colour, images and shape to explore self exploration during sessions. Your therapist will guide you with ART therapy to allow you to express your thoughts and feelings. Some activities included in ART therapy are painting, drawing and sculpting. ART therapy differs from talk therapy as it does not depend on talking alone, it's a helpful approach for clients who struggle to put their feelings into words.

Our therapist ensures respect and confidentiality are followed during every appointment. We provide a safe and nonjudgemental space to ensure everyone feels welcome. Sessions for ART therapy may differ from person to person depending on your needs. You may draw or paint and even work on collaborative art projects with your therapist. If you are wondering about our approach, learn more here: unique approach.

Who Can Benefit from Art Therapy?

Art therapy is available for everyone regardless of age or background. Everyone has creative potential, you do not need to be artsy to take part in ART therapy. ART therapy is to express yourself, not to strive for perfection! Our therapists support you in using art as a means of self-discovery and self- expression.

• Children and youth: Art therapy often helps young clients process complicated feelings, behavioral challenges, trauma, or changes at home or school. Visit our children’s mental health page to learn more.
• Teens: For adolescents coping with anxiety, Depression, or self esteem struggles, art therapy can be a safe space to express emotions and helps them to develop healthy coping skills. Learn more about teen therapy for youth 13–15 years and teens’ mental health.
• Adults: If you are struggling with depression, stress, grief or anxiety, adults can also benefit from art therapy. Learn about our adult counseling options.
• Seniors: Older adults can use art to process trauma, life transitions or even manage anxiety or depression. We also offer support for seniors.

Common Challenges Addressed by Art Therapy

Our art therapists are trained to help with many different mental health concerns. Some of the concerns we address with art therapy include:

• Anxiety and depression
• Communication difficulties
• Trauma recovery
• Grief and loss
• Behavioral issues in children and teens
• Self-esteem struggles
• Emotional regulation
• Stress from school, work, or family changes

Our Art Therapy Process

At Wholesome Psychology, we strive to provide a warm and welcoming space , inclusive of everyone no matter your age or background. Our therapist and staff value respect and compassion in all that we do. Here’s what to expect from art therapy with us:

1. Initial Assessment: In the first session, you will come up with a collaborative approach to therapy with the therapist. They will speak with you to get an understanding of your wants and goals. WEvery individual is unique so we create a unique approach that best suits your needs. Read more about getting started.
2. Creative Exploration: Guided by your interests and comfort, our therapists introduce creative materials and techniques that are best suited to your age and needs. This could include painting, drawing or digital art.
3. Therapeutic Conversations: Creating an art piece is one wonderful thing to come out of art therapy. The best thing to come out of art therapy is you having a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings and improved well-being. Our therapists help you make connections between your art and your emotions, allowing for self growth and confidence.

All sessions are confidential and paced to best suit your needs.

Art Therapy for Trauma & Emotional Healing

Art therapy is shown to help clients process trauma and improve well-being.If you have experienced childhood trauma, loss, or struggle with anxiety and depression, , art therapy helps you express what words cannot. Learn more about PTSD & trauma therapy. If you are interested in seeking help for trauma or learning more about our trauma therapy services,

Counseling Services for All Ages

Art therapy can stand alone or be combined with other therapy methods depending on your needs. We provide:

• Play therapy for children: play therapy.
• Counseling for teens: teen therapy for youth 13–15 years.
• Grief and loss support: grief and loss therapy.

Get Started With Art Therapy in Edmonton & St. Albert

If you are interested in starting your therapeutic journey, wholesome is here for you! ART therapy may be a good fit for you if you are dealing with stress,anxiety, trauma and even chronic illness. Our team can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. See our contact page to get started.

References: What is art therapy?. Canadian Art Therapy Association. (n.d.). https://www.canadianarttherapy.org/what-is-art-therapy