Frequently Asked Questions (for clients)
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What happens in an art therapy session?
Sessions may include art-making, reflection, and conversation. The process is guided by a trained art therapist and tailored to each person’s needs.
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How does art therapy support neurodivergent people?
Art therapy can offer a non-verbal, sensory-friendly way to process emotions, reduce anxiety, and explore identity or experiences. It can also help with self-regulation, communication, and confidence.
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Can art therapy help with executive functioning or emotional regulation?
Yes! Art-making can support planning, sequencing, and decision-making in a low-pressure way. It also offers tools for self-regulation and calming through sensory or visual expression.
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Can sessions be tailored to sensory preferences or needs?
Absolutely! We consider lighting, materials, sound, pace, and space setup, as well as working collaboratively to co-create a supportive environment.
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How are sessions structured for someone who struggles with routine or unpredictability?
Sessions can be consistent in structure and pacing, with visual or written cues if helpful. At the same time, they remain flexible enough to meet the client where they are on that day.
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Is it suitable for someone who is non-speaking or uses Augmentative and Alternative Communications (AAC)?
Yes! Art therapy is highly adaptable. Expression through images, textures, and movement can be just as rich as verbal communication. Therapists can also work with assistive communication tools.
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Is art therapy evidence-based?
Yes. Art therapy is an evidence-based practice supported by research in psychology, neuroscience, and education. It has been shown to support emotional regulation, self-expression, stress reduction, and trauma processing, particularly among neurodivergent and other diverse populations.
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Do I have to finish the artwork in each session?
Not at all! There’s no pressure to complete anything. The process is more important than the final product, and artworks can evolve over multiple sessions.
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Will the therapist tell me what to draw or paint?
We offer gentle prompts and suggestions based on your goals or themes, but ultimately, you choose what and how you’d like to create. It’s a collaborative process.
Frequently Asked Questions (for caregivers and families)
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Can I sit in during my child’s session?
Yes, especially in the beginning. Some children benefit from having a parent nearby, while others may engage more freely on their own. We’ll work with you to see what feels best for your child.
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Will I get updates on what happens in therapy?
With the child or client’s consent, yes. We can share general themes, progress, and any areas for collaboration. We also offer caregiver consults if you’d like more involved support.
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How long does it usually take to see progress or changes?
It varies. Some clients feel benefits after a few sessions, while others may take longer to build trust or notice shifts. Art therapy tends to work gently over time, with change often emerging gradually.
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How do you support self-esteem or self-expression in children who are non-speaking or feel “different”?
Art therapy creates a safe space where every form of expression is valid—spoken or not. We celebrate neurodivergent ways of thinking and relating, and support clients in building confidence through creativity, choice, and being seen for who they are.
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What if my child doesn’t seem interested in art or refuses to engage?
Art therapy creates a safe space where every form of expression is valid—spoken or not. We celebrate neurodivergent ways of thinking and relating, and support clients in building confidence through creativity, choice, and being seen for who they are.
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How can I support my child’s process outside of sessions?
You don’t need to be an artist! Simple things like offering unstructured time to create at home, validating their feelings, or being curious about their art (without over-analyzing it) can go a long way. We’re also happy to offer suggestions if you’d like ideas for supportive tools or routines at home.
Contact Us
We’re here when you’re ready. Whether you have a question or would like to schedule a session, simply fill out the form on the right—we’d be glad to connect with you.