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Expressive Therapy

Expressive Therapy

Expressive therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative and artistic expression to help individuals overcome mental health issues. This can include visual arts, music, dance, drama, and writing.

Book a free consultationSee expressive therapy counsellors
  • 1 counsellor trained
  • In person

What it helps with

Concerns expressive therapy can help withWhat it helps with

How it works

What a course of expressive therapy looks likeHow it works

  1. Early on

    Notice what you feel

    You and your counsellor talk about what brings you in. You may try a quick drawing, a few lines of writing or a piece of music to show how things feel right now.

  2. As you go

    Create and explore

    You make something in session, like a collage, a movement or a short scene. Then you and your counsellor talk about what it brings up for you.

  3. Over time

    Keep expressing yourself

    You may keep a journal or sketchbook between sessions. You and your counsellor decide together how long to keep going and which creative forms still help.

Expressive therapy may suit you if you

  • Find it hard to put your feelings into words
  • Like making things, even with no art skills
  • Find that talking alone keeps going in circles
  • Want a gentle way to explore painful experiences
  • Want to see yourself and your strengths in a new way
  • Want to build self-esteem through what you create

Something else may fit better if you

  • Mainly want space to talk things through in words
  • Want a structured plan with set skills and worksheets
  • Feel very uneasy making art or moving in front of someone
  • Are in crisis right now: call or text 9-8-8

Not sure? A free consultation can help you choose.

Where

Expressive therapy in person in Pitt MeadowsWhere

About

More about expressive therapy

Using Expressive Therapy to Overcome Mental Health Issues: How No Fear Counselling Can Help

What is Expressive Therapy?

Expressive therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative and artistic expression to help individuals overcome mental health issues. This can include visual arts, music, dance, drama, and writing.

Benefits of Expressive Therapy

Studies have shown that expressive counselling can have a range of benefits for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Some of these benefits include:

Types of Expressive Therapy

There are many different types of expressive treatment that individuals can benefit from. These include:

  • Art therapy
  • Music therapy
  • Dance/movement therapy
  • Drama therapy
  • Writing therapy

How Does Expressive Therapy Work?

Expressive therapy works by allowing individuals to express themselves in a nonverbal way, which can help them process and make sense of difficult emotions and experiences. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with traditional talk therapy or have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.

How Can No Fear Counselling Help?

At No Fear Counselling, we offer a range of expressive therapy options for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Our trained therapists can work with clients to find the right form of expressive treatment for their unique needs and goals.

Statistics on the Effectiveness of Expressive Therapy

Studies have shown that expressive therapy can be an effective treatment option for individuals struggling with a range of mental health issues. For example:

  • A 2018 study found that music therapy can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals with mental health disorders.
  • A 2017 study found that art therapy can be helpful in reducing symptoms of PTSD in veterans.
  • A 2019 study found that dance therapy can be effective in improving social functioning and reducing symptoms of depression in individuals with schizophrenia.

If you are struggling with mental health issues and are interested in trying expressive counselling, contact No Fear Counselling today. Our experienced therapists can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.

To book an appointment or learn more about our expressive therapy options, visit our contact page or call us at (778) 288-8361. Don't let mental health issues hold you back - Contact No Fear Counselling today.

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Counsellors trained in expressive therapyTrained in expressive therapy

  • Diana Magallón-Romero

    Counselling Therapist

    • English, French, Spanish
    • Pitt Meadows
    View profile

FAQs

Common questions about expressive therapyCommon questions

Can't find your answer? Ask us a question.

  • In a session, you use a creative activity to explore what you feel, then talk about it with your counsellor. You might draw, paint, write, move, play music or act out a short scene. You choose what you try and how much you share. The goal is not to make something good, but to notice what comes up so you can understand it gently.

  • No, you do not need any art, music or drama skills. Many people find a rough scribble or a few honest words can say a lot. Your counsellor does not judge or grade what you make. If one creative form feels awkward, you can try another one or simply talk instead.

  • Expressive therapy can be one way to explore painful memories, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), when words are hard to find. Your counsellor goes at your pace and helps you feel steady and safe before any deeper work, and you can pause at any time. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433), or call 911 if you are in danger.

  • Yes, some expressive work can be done online from anywhere in BC, and you can also meet in person. Drawing, writing and music often fit well on video, using your own paper or instrument at home. Movement and drama may feel easier in an office, so talk with your counsellor about what suits you.

  • The main difference is that expressive therapy adds creative activities to the conversation. Person-centred therapy mostly uses talking, with your counsellor listening closely and without judgment. Both put you in charge and focus on how you feel now. Some counsellors blend the two, so you can talk when that helps and create when words feel stuck.

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No Fear Counselling is not an emergency service. When you are ready, we are here to help with ongoing support.

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