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)

Meet our Art Therapists

Jessi van der Laan

LLC, ATR-P

(She/They)🏳️‍🌈

My name is Jessi, I’m a limited licensed counselor and provisionally registered art therapist in the state of Michigan. I earned my Master of Arts in counseling and art therapy from Wayne State University. I am committed to helping individuals grow through and learn from the many challenges that life often throws at us.

My work focuses on providing a safe and comfortable space for individuals to grow and discover themselves. I believe in a person-centered approach integrated with additional evidence-based practices that allow the client being able to explore themselves in a non-judgmental environment.

It can be scary taking that first step towards bettering your mental health so thank you for choosing to take it with me. In our sessions together you can expect a combination of psychotherapy and art therapy to address and work through any things that you may be experiencing and if you are not an artist, do not worry, art therapy is about the process of creating art, self-discovery, and expressing yourself in ways that words may not be able to rather than the product you create in the end.

Specialties:

  • Teenagers

  • Adults

  • Anxiety

  • Coping skills

  • Depression

  • LGBTQ+

  • Mindfulness

  • Self esteem/Self expression

  • Stress management

Accepts:


Begin Art Therapy in Ferndale, 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: