What is Expressive Arts Therapy?

 Expressive Arts Therapy, often abbreviated as EXA, is a therapeutic approach that harnesses the power of the arts to support individuals facing a wide array of challenges, whether those are rooted in psychological, emotional, behavioural issues, or stem from life traumas, interpersonal relationships, or life transitions. 

EXA operates on the fundamental belief that every individual possesses the innate creative capacity to respond to their circumstances.

By immersing ourselves in play and the arts, we venture into the realm of imagination, where new possibilities emerge that often elude us in our routine existence. Within this creative domain, we discover untapped reservoirs of inner resources and previously concealed solutions. Instead of fixating on deficiencies and problems, the EXA approach emphasizes a resource-oriented and solution-driven perspective.

Engaging in artistic expression is an endeavor that actively involves our senses and emotions. During an EXA session, we don't merely discuss our challenges; we actively participate in artistic activities that forge a tangible, emotional connection to our experiences. The EXA therapist guides their clients through artistic challenges, enabling them to recognize their own capabilities, which can then be applied to navigate their daily life challenges.

Expressive Arts Therapy offers a unique and powerful way for individuals to connect with their inner selves, process emotions, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing through creative expression.

I value the intersectionalities and breadth of human identities, dis/abilities, experience, and creative expressions. I understand and respect how these aspects may contribute to one's mental health and life challenges.

If you feel in need of a non-judgmental,  nurturing, and respectful place to explore your experience;  I view and treat individuals as experts in their own lives. 

Expressive Arts Therapy (EXA) can benefit a wide range of individuals, including:

People Dealing with Emotional Issues, Trauma Survivors, Individuals with Communication Challenges, Those Seeking Personal Growth, Individuals Coping with Grief and Loss, Substance Use / Abuse, Individuals with Chronic Illness or Disabilities, Anyone Seeking Stress Reduction 

I am dedicated to continue to work toward offering an LGBTQ2S+, BIPoC, Disability positive and affirming space.  

In today's world, marked by social distancing, heightened anxiety, and ongoing social injustices, many individuals grapple with emotional turmoil and a sense of isolation.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in fostering relationships, and it begins with the connection between you and me. I hold an assumption that relationships and connections are pivotal in sustaining and nurturing one's mental and emotional well-being. In our sessions, I pay careful attention to various types of connections and the meanings they hold for you. This includes your relationship with yourself, your interactions with others, and your connection to the world and beyond. My aim is to assist you in gaining awareness and insights into how life's events and challenges impact you on multiple levels.

Transitions in life can be hard; nurturing relationships can help.

Colonization goes beyond the mere establishment of one country's dominance over another. It encompasses a deeper and more insidious influence, wherein colonial frameworks have become ingrained as the normative culture, shaping our subconscious behaviors, learning patterns, and ways of conducting ourselves. 

I am acutely aware of how dominant systems, including white supremacy, cisheteropatriarchy, and capitalism, have played and continue to play significant roles in perpetuating violence and oppression against numerous individuals. This extends to the provision and accessibility of mental health services within Canada as well. 

In my practice, I operate from a racially and socially conscious perspective, with a particular focus on recognizing how trauma stemming from oppression and colonization is intertwined with mental health. I am dedicated to offering individuals the tailored support they require in this context.

My commitment to social justice within my clinical work begins by acknowledging the profound impact of dominant systems. It involves ongoing critical self-reflection, continual education in anti-oppressive frameworks, political awareness, and a commitment to receiving ongoing quality supervision. This commitment drives my efforts to provide inclusive and compassionate mental health support while challenging the systems that perpetuate harm and inequity.

I have completed my education and hold a Master's degree in Expressive Arts Therapy with a minor in Psychology, which I earned at The European Graduate School in Switzerland. Additionally, I have obtained a postgraduate diploma in Expressive Arts Therapy from the Centre for Expressive Arts Therapy Education in Toronto.

Furthermore, I am a Professional Member of both the Ontario Expressive Arts Therapy Association (OEATA) and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). These affiliations reflect my commitment to stay current and connected in the field of therapy.

My fees for therapy services are as follows:

- In-Person: $170 per session

- Virtual: $140 per session

I understand that financial circumstances vary, and I offer a limited sliding scale fee structure for individuals with low or no income to ensure that therapy remains accessible to those who need it.  

It's important to note that while I do not directly bill insurance companies, I can provide you with an invoice for my services. This invoice may be useful for individuals who wish to seek reimbursement from their insurance provider, if applicable.