Art Therapy in Michigan

Woman painting for relaxation as a part of art therapy in Royal Oak, MI. Begin your art therapy for self discovery and self esteem with a holistic therapist whether you are in Royal Oak or Detroit, MI.

Art therapy, as defined by the American Art Therapy Association (AATA), is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It provides a safe space for individuals to express themselves authentically through various art modalities like painting, drawing, and sculpture. Through this process, art therapists help clients gain insight, develop coping skills, and promote personal growth.

WHO can benefit

Art therapy is for everyone, regardless of age, background, or artistic ability. Individuals, couples, families, or groups can all benefit from the creative process of making art to explore and express their inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, art therapy offers a unique avenue for self-expression and healing, making it ideal for those seeking alternative methods of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you’re looking to cope with stress, process trauma, or simply connect with your authentic self, art therapy provides a welcoming and inclusive space for exploration and transformation.

Is Art Therapy for me?

Art therapy can be a great fit for anyone seeking a creative way to explore their emotions, process life challenges, or gain deeper self-awareness. You don't need any artistic skills to benefit—it's about expression, not perfection. If you find it difficult to articulate your feelings through words alone, or if you're looking for a new approach to mental health and personal growth, art therapy could be a powerful tool for you. Whether you’re dealing with stress, trauma, anxiety, or just want to understand yourself better, art therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your inner world. If you're unsure, consulting with an art therapist can help you determine if this approach aligns with your needs and goals.

Some of the benefits:

  • Reduces stress, anxiety, and tension

  • Increases self-awareness and emotional intelligence

  • Enhances creative expression and problem-solving skills

  • Improves communication and interpersonal relationships

  • Provides a safe outlet for exploring and processing difficult emotions

  • Fosters self-esteem and self-confidence

  • Helps cope with trauma, grief, and loss

  • Promotes relaxation and mindfulness

  • Supports personal growth and self-discovery

  • Cultivates a sense of empowerment and control

  • Strengthens resilience and coping skills

  • Encourages playfulness and spontaneity

  • Fosters a deeper connection with oneself and others

  • Enhances overall well-being and quality of life

WHAT it can look like:

During an art therapy session, participants may engage in:

  • Painting: Using brushes, fingers, or other tools to apply paint to canvas or paper

  • Drawing: Using pencils, pens, markers, or charcoal to create images on paper.

  • Sculpting: Working with clay, playdough, or other materials to shape three-dimensional forms.

  • Found material artwork: Creating collages or mixed media pieces using materials found in the environment.

Group therapy: Participating in art-making activities alongside others, sharing experiences, and offering mutual support.

Individual sessions: Working one-on-one with an art therapist to explore personal themes and emotions through art.

Frequently Asked Questions About Art Therapy(FAQ)

  • Art therapy is a form of therapy that uses creative processes like drawing, painting, or sculpting to help individuals express their emotions, manage stress, and explore inner thoughts. It's designed to support emotional well-being and foster personal growth.

  • No artistic skills are necessary! Art therapy focuses on the process of creating, not the outcome. It's about self-expression, emotional release, and gaining insight, rather than creating a perfect piece of art.

  • During a session, you'll engage in creative activities guided by a licensed art therapist. You might explore emotions or experiences through art-making, followed by discussions to help reflect on the meaning of what you've created. The therapist provides a safe space to process emotions and thoughts that emerge.

  • Art therapy can help with a range of issues, including:

    • Anxiety and depression

    • Stress management

    • Grief and loss

    • Trauma and PTSD

    • Relationship challenges

    • Self-esteem and personal identity issues

    It is suitable for both children and adults.

  • Sessions usually last between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your needs and the therapist's recommendations.

  • Yes! Art therapy is highly beneficial for children. Since children often find it easier to express themselves through creative activities than words, art therapy can help them process difficult emotions, develop coping skills, and improve self-esteem.

  • Absolutely. Like all therapeutic practices, art therapy follows strict confidentiality guidelines. Your artwork and what you discuss in sessions will remain private unless you give explicit permission to share, or there’s a legal obligation (e.g., if someone is in danger).

  • Art therapy is for anyone who wants to explore their emotions or experiences in a creative way. If you’re unsure, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our therapists to discuss your goals and determine if this approach aligns with your needs.

  • Yes, many art therapists offer virtual sessions. You can engage in art-making from home using materials you already have, and the therapist will guide you through the process via video call.

  • Art therapy and counseling both focus on improving mental health and emotional well-being, but they use different approaches. In counseling, talk therapy is the main tool used to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Art therapy, on the other hand, uses creative expression—like drawing, painting, or sculpting—to help individuals explore emotions and gain self-awareness. Art therapy combines elements of both art and psychology, allowing people to express things they may find difficult to put into words.

  • Art therapy has shown promising results in improving mental health and overall well-being, especially for individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Research on art therapy's effectiveness varies depending on the condition, but many clients report reduced symptoms, improved self-esteem, and greater resilience. Studies have also shown that art therapy can enhance treatment outcomes when combined with other therapies.

  • Art therapy is beneficial for a wide range of people, including children, adolescents, and adults. It can be particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, struggle with anxiety or depression, or have difficulty verbalizing their feelings. People who feel creatively inclined or who are interested in self-exploration may also find art therapy to be a great fit.

  • Yes, art therapy has been found to be effective for many people. It provides an alternative way to process emotions, relieve stress, and gain insight into personal challenges. Studies and clinical evidence show that art therapy can reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions and improve overall well-being, often helping clients unlock feelings and experiences that might be harder to access through talk therapy alone.

  • Art therapists are trained to observe emotional and behavioral cues during sessions, but they typically do not provide formal diagnoses. They work with clients to explore their feelings and encourage self-reflection through creative expression. If a diagnosis is needed, an art therapist might work in conjunction with other mental health professionals who are licensed to diagnose.

  • Art therapy and talk therapy are both effective but differ in their approaches. For some individuals, art therapy can be more effective because it allows for non-verbal expression, which can feel less intimidating than direct conversation. Talk therapy may be better for others who prefer to engage through discussion. Often, art therapy and talk therapy can complement each other and may even be combined in treatment plans for a more comprehensive approach.

  • Visual art creation, such as drawing, painting, or collage, is among the most common forms of art therapy. These activities allow clients to express themselves freely and engage deeply with their inner thoughts and feelings. Sculpture, photography, and digital art are also used, depending on the therapist’s approach and the client’s interests.

  • Anyone who feels they could benefit from a creative approach to exploring their thoughts and emotions could be a good candidate for art therapy. It's especially helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, are dealing with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, or who may struggle with traditional forms of therapy.

  • People of all ages, from children to older adults, can benefit from art therapy. Good candidates include those who have difficulty expressing emotions verbally, individuals going through stress or life transitions, and anyone looking for a therapeutic approach that combines creativity with emotional exploration.

  • Art therapy sessions typically include three main elements:

    • Art Materials

      • The tools for creative expression, like paints, paper, clay, etc.

    • A Safe Therapeutic Environment

      • A secure, non-judgmental space to explore feelings through art.

    • Guidance from a Trained Art Therapist

      • The therapist supports and guides the process, offering insight when needed.

  • In an art therapy session, clients are encouraged to create art based on their current thoughts or emotions. The therapist may suggest specific themes or activities, or the client may have free reign to choose their own form of expression. Afterward, the therapist may help the client reflect on the piece, exploring what it reveals about their feelings, thoughts, or experiences.

  • Art therapy taps into the brain's emotional and sensory areas, enabling people to express feelings they might not consciously recognize or articulate. By creating art, individuals can process emotions in a way that feels safe and natural, making it a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.

  • During art therapy, the brain’s sensory and emotional processing centers are highly active. This helps reduce stress, manage pain, and boost emotional resilience. The act of creating stimulates the release of dopamine and endorphins, the brain's "feel-good" chemicals, enhancing mood and providing a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, engaging in art can activate the brain’s memory and reflective functions, facilitating deeper self-understanding and healing.

  • You can book a session by contacting us through our website, calling [phone number], or emailing us at [email address]. We’ll help you find a time and therapist that fits your needs.

Meet our Art Therapist

Amelia McGraw

MEd, ATR-BC

(She/Her)🏳️‍🌈

As a Board Certified Art Therapist, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my practice. Alongside my board certification, I am also a registered art therapist with extensive experience in inpatient and group therapy settings, holding a master's degree in Art Therapy from Wayne State University.

My approach is deeply rooted in fostering a space of acceptance and empowerment, where you can freely explore your emotions and experiences. Through evidence-based techniques including CBT, mindfulness techniques, and person-centered approaches, we'll work together to address negative thoughts and behaviors, guiding you towards personal strength, self-approval, and a renewed sense of purpose.

I am dedicated to providing a supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental environment throughout your healing journey. Together, let's embark on this path towards a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Specialties: 

  • Anxiety  

  • Coping skills  

  • Depression 

  • Life Transitions

  • LGBTQ+  

  • Mindfulness

  • Personality Disorders  

  • Relationships  

  • Self Esteem 

  • Self Expression 

  • Stress  

  • Trauma

  • Women’s Issues

Accepts:

Begin Art Therapy in Royal Oak, Michigan today!

Everyone’s path to mental wellness is unique. If you or a loved one is struggling, consider reaching out. Art Therapy is a safe space to express your emotions, learn coping skills, and regain a sense of control through the creative process of artmaking. We’re here to help guide you on your journey to a happier, healthier life. You deserve to have access to every resource possible. When you’re ready to get started, we’re ready to get started! Here are the steps you need to take:

  1. First, fill out a contact form

  2. Next, meet with one of our caring therapists

  3. Then, begin a new inspirational journey of healing and self-discovery!

Other mental health services offered by Inspired Healing

We know that mental health is complicated, so art therapy isn’t the only thing that we do at Inspired Healing. We also offer: