How does virtual therapy/counseling or virtual art therapy work?
As art therapists we are trained in both tradition talk therapy and art therapy. During a traditional individual talk therapy session, we meet for 60 minutes. First there's an initial intake assessment wherein we check in with you about your presenting concerns. Then we move to working together to build your unique treatment plan to help you reach your goals. Follow-up sessions focus on the goals outlined in the first session and may include in session activities/directives or small assignments between sessions to continue working towards the changes clients desire.
During an art therapy session we would also have that initial intake assessment and goal setting but we would then move to inviting clients to use art materials in a number of possible ways depending on their needs. Some examples where art making might be used include: as an icebreaker to begin engaging the mind on self-reflection and expression, as a way to express ones thoughts or feelings visually, as a way to process past or current experiences, as a way to visualize a different future for oneself, and as a way to improve self-esteem and mastery. The art making can be a way to open up about difficult things and face them while also providing you some distance at the same time. When it comes to making art in session I often remind my clients they are not in art class being judged or critiqued. The art work created during a session is discussed, explored, and most importantly honored.
Once your online session is scheduled you will be emailed a link to your private virtual therapy session. When the time of your session arrives you simply click on the link provided via email using your phone, tablet, or desktop computer. Make sure your camera and microphone are enabled and you are good to go!
During an art therapy session we would also have that initial intake assessment and goal setting but we would then move to inviting clients to use art materials in a number of possible ways depending on their needs. Some examples where art making might be used include: as an icebreaker to begin engaging the mind on self-reflection and expression, as a way to express ones thoughts or feelings visually, as a way to process past or current experiences, as a way to visualize a different future for oneself, and as a way to improve self-esteem and mastery. The art making can be a way to open up about difficult things and face them while also providing you some distance at the same time. When it comes to making art in session I often remind my clients they are not in art class being judged or critiqued. The art work created during a session is discussed, explored, and most importantly honored.
Once your online session is scheduled you will be emailed a link to your private virtual therapy session. When the time of your session arrives you simply click on the link provided via email using your phone, tablet, or desktop computer. Make sure your camera and microphone are enabled and you are good to go!
Does confidentiality still apply in virtual therapy/counseling?
Just like in a traditional in-person therapy/art therapy session what is discussed in therapy stays in therapy. We use a HIPPA compliant virtual platform which allows for the most virtual privacy possible. We conduct sessions in a room/space alone and may use headphones and noise machines to provide the highest level of privacy possible. Your therapist will never provide services in a public space. We ask our clients to also consider their privacy and have their sessions in a space that is also private for them so they feel most comfortable sharing with their therapist.
How do I know if therapy/counseling or art therapy is for right me? Who is therapy/counseling for?
Online/virtual therapy is great for those who are looking for flexibility, comfort, and might have limited options for therapy in their given area. These types of sessions are also ideal for clients who are looking for additional support or guidance as they navigate stressful life events or other mental health issues and concerns. There are few instances where online therapy would not be the appropriate level of care due to certain safety concerns. If you want to learn more of discuss whether this is a good fit for you please reach out for a 15 min free consultation!
What is the difference between coaching and therapy/counseling?
Coaching sessions are for those looking to flex their creative muscle. These are individuals who are attracted to that arts, creating, making, and developing alternative methods for exploring their inners worlds, discovering their passions, developing new ways to manage life, and who want to incorporate creative self-care practices. I help my client's focus on the present and tap into their current strengths. Creative Coaching sessions are therefore about providing information about methods of art making, types of medium, and educating you on how to begin applying/implementing these art making strategies into a daily creative practice. Creative Wellness Coaching sessions are also about providing you with support and are therefore more collaborative in nature. Creative Coaching sessions are all about working together as a team towards a desired goal such as developing a healthy self-care practice, developing a creative habit, or learning how to use art making for managing stress.
If you find you want to discuss past issues/concerns, looking for help with diagnosis of a mental health concern, managing a mental health disorder, or want help processing past trauma then therapy/art therapy would be a better fit.
If you find you want to discuss past issues/concerns, looking for help with diagnosis of a mental health concern, managing a mental health disorder, or want help processing past trauma then therapy/art therapy would be a better fit.