What Is Art Therapy & Is It Right for Me?
Patricia Cameron BA, DKATI, RP
So What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a unique form of psychotherapy that combines the creative process of making art with traditional talk therapy techniques. It’s an expressive and healing approach that helps individuals explore their emotions, gain self-awareness, and work through emotional difficulties. The process of creating art—whether it’s drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, or another medium—provides an opportunity to express thoughts and feelings that might be hard to put into words.
Art can help you visualize what’s happening in your mind, make sense of complex emotions, and discover new ways of thinking or behaving. It’s a process that can help you heal, increase self-esteem, relieve stress, and foster mindfulness. The act of creating art is naturally soothing and can help you tap into your inner world, offering clarity, insight, and a sense of calm. Art therapy is for anyone who’s seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and ways to improve their emotional wellbeing.
That sounds great,
but is it for me?
Art therapy can be a great fit for anyone who:
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Feels stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected and is looking for a fresh way to explore and express themselves.
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Wants to discover new tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional struggles.
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Is curious about the creative process and how it can be used as a tool for personal growth.
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Has experienced trauma or difficult life events and needs a safe space to process those emotions.
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Is looking to build confidence and reconnect with their own creativity.
You don’t need to have any previous experience with art or consider yourself an "artist" to benefit from art therapy.
In fact, even if you feel disconnected from your creative side, art therapy can help you reconnect and unlock powerful insights about yourself.
What Does a Typical Art Therapy Session Look Like?
Each art therapy session is personalized to your needs, but here’s an overview of what to expect:
1. Check-In:
Each art therapy session is personalized to your needs, but here’s an overview of what to expect:
2. Warm-Up (Optional):
This might involve a simple activity to help you get into a creative mindset and relax.
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3. Creating Art:
You can either bring in art you’ve previously created or make new art during the session. The process may be spontaneous, where you choose materials and create whatever feels right in the moment, or it might involve an activity designed by the therapist to address specific goals or needs.
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4. Reflecting on the Art:
Once the art is created, you and the therapist will discuss it. The therapist will guide you by asking open-ended questions like, “What do you see?” to help you explore your feelings, thoughts, and insights related to the art.
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5. Uncovering Meaning:
Through reflection and discussion, you’ll uncover meaning in your artwork, which can help you process difficult experiences, gain new perspectives, and increase self-awareness.
Art therapy can be deeply transformative, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, gain clarity, and work toward healing.
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Making Therapy Approachable & Attainable
Fees, Insurance & Cancellation Information
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Consultation: 20 minute phone or Zoom call at no charge

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Initial/Intake Session: 50 minutes/ $145.00 (No HST) 
Regular Scheduled Session: 50 minutes/ $145.00 (No HST)
Sliding Scale: Please contact me for further information, I have limited sliding scale spaces available at this time.
Group Therapy: Fees vary and will be a lower rate per hour than my regular hourly rate, check my Events page for more information.
Method Of Payment
E-transfer, debit, and all major credit cards. Client will be provided with a receipt upon payment.
Cancellation & Missed Sessions
Cancellation of a scheduled session requires 24 hours notice by email or phone. If a client is not present for their scheduled appointment, a 50% charge for the missed session must be paid in full before rescheduling further appointments.
Insurance Coverage for Ontario Clients
Registered Psychotherapist fees are not covered by OHIP. However, the fees may be completely or partially covered by your extended medical plan or your company or workplace’s extended health benefits. If you are planning to use insurance or third-party coverage, you are required to cover the full fee, regardless of the amount reimbursed to you. Painted Key Art Therapy will provide receipts for you to submit for reimbursement.
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