Creative Expression:
Art in Therapy for Teens & Adults
in New Jersey
The Essence of Art in Therapy at
Mind by Design Counseling NJ
The therapists at Mind by Design use creativity and art in therapy as a support to the overall therapeutic process. Our therapists are a creative group of clinicians who seek out opportunities to make therapy more engaging, comfortable and soothing for clients of all ages in New Jersey. Although different from art therapists who have specific trainings in their utilization of art, our clinicians apply their mastery of clinical work and incorporate art, creativity and hands-on activities to amplify the therapeutic benefits. Expressive Arts Therapy helps us to build a positive therapeutic relationship, help clients feel at ease and foster communication that compliments more traditional therapy, such as talk-therapy.
Your therapist will act as a copilot, working to navigate emotions and establish a space for self-exploration and self-expression, absent from judgement. You don’t need any skill, training or art materials to start creative arts therapy. We provide you with the necessary tools and materials, all you need to bring is your willingness to try!
How we use Creativity & Art in Therapy
From journaling to sculpting, there are numerous techniques in expressive art therapy. The key is to find what resonates with the individual and use that as a medium for exploration and healing. In expressive art therapy, the therapist acts as a guide, helping individuals navigate their emotions and find meaning in their creations. They provide a safe space for exploration and self-expression.
Art in Therapy for Stress & Relaxation
Art therapy is an effective method for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Engaging in the creative process can induce a state of flow, a mental state where an individual is fully immersed and focused on the activity at hand. This state is similar to meditation, providing a break from stress and leading to feelings of well-being. For example, creating a mandala, a complex geometric pattern, can be a meditative and soothing process, helping to calm the mind and reduce overall stress levels.
Art in Therapy for Trauma & PTSD
Art in therapy for trauma is particularly effective to help with PTSD symptoms. Using art in therapy allows for the expression of traumatic experiences without the need for verbal articulation, which can sometimes be re-traumatizing. Through art, individuals can safely explore and express their memories, emotions, and thoughts related to the traumatic event. For example, a person might draw or paint scenes related to a traumatic event, which can then be used as a starting point for discussion and processing with the therapist. This process can help diminish the power of traumatic memories and aid in recovery.
Supporting the Elderly using Art in Therapy
In geriatric care, the use of art and creativity in therapy can help address various issues such as isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. It provides older adults with a means of expression and communication, particularly when verbal abilities might be diminishing. Engaging in art can stimulate cognitive functions, improve motor skills, and provide a much-needed sense of accomplishment and purpose. For example, an elderly person might engage in painting or collage, which can evoke memories, stimulate conversation, and provide a connection to others, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Art in Therapy for Anxiety & Depression
For those suffering from anxiety and depression, the use of art in therapy can be a lifeline. It offers a non-threatening way to explore and express feelings, confront emotional pain, and uncover underlying issues. Creating art can provide a distraction from persistent negative thoughts, allowing individuals to step back and gain a new perspective on their problems. Over time, it can help in understanding the root causes of their anxiety or depression and developing new coping mechanisms. For instance, someone with depression might use clay modeling to give shape to their feelings of emptiness or sadness, making these emotions more manageable.
Applying Art in Therapy for Teens & Children
Children and adolescents often find it easier to express themselves through art than through verbal communication. Creativity and art in therapy can be particularly effective for young individuals as it allows them to convey complex emotions and thoughts in a way that feels natural and intuitive. Through drawing, painting, or sculpting, they can explore their inner world, making sense of their experiences and emotions. For instance, a child who is bullied might draw the bullying scene, which can then help the therapist understand the child’s feelings and thoughts and provide appropriate support.
Creative Expression through Art For All Ages & Abilities
One of the primary benefits of art therapy is the ability to express emotions safely and creatively. For many, it provides a way to express deep or complex feelings that they cannot express in words. This expression can lead to a sense of relief, increased awareness of one’s emotional state, and a deeper understanding of the issues that may be troubling them.
Expressive Arts Therapy Helps With...
- Trauma & PTSD
- Social-Anxiety
- Occupational/Academic Performance Anxiety
- Anxiety, Panic & Phobias
- Self-Esteem Issues & Assertiveness Training
- Fears & worries
- Grief, Loss & Major Life Adjustments
- Interpersonal Challenges & Boundaries
- Depression & Mood Disorders
- Stress Management & Self Care
- Relationship Issues & Communication
- Chronic Pain & Fatigue
- Gender-Identity
- Personal Development
Get In Touch with An
Expressive Arts Therapy Provider in NJ today!
The relationship between the therapist and the client is central to the effectiveness of art therapy. A strong, trusting relationship allows the individual to feel safe and supported as they explore and express their emotions through art. The therapist’s role is to facilitate this process, providing guidance and insight, and helping the individual to interpret and understand their artworks.
Our therapists provide individual therapy online for clients ages 10+ and find that all ages enjoy the use of art in therapy. We work with our clients to identify art mediums that foster a sense of ease, comfort and self-expression. Our clients are then provided these items in their TheraBox, delivered to their home at no additional cost to them.
Art has the power to heal, to inspire, and to transform. By tapping into our creative side, we can find new ways to cope, to understand ourselves better, and to connect with the world around us.
Mind by Design's Custom
Therabox
Although our online therapists use a variety of modalities to support the therapeutic process, we truly see the benefit of using expressive arts therapy to amplify therapy. Each box includes items that support the therapeutic process– and the options are endless!
FAQ's about online therapy,
Art in Therapy & how to get started!
Where are you located? I need a therapist near me
We are fully online, which means that your therapy sessions will be help via video call on our HIPAA compliant Platform. Anyone in New Jersey can access our therapy services
How do I get started as a new client?
New Clients can reach out to us directly via call, text or email here:
Does my insurance cover my visits?
We provide”Courtesy Billing” for clients who are using the Out-of-network insurance benefits.
Our Insurance Page shares a small blurb about Why We Left Insurance Panels
What are out-of-network benefits?
When using OON benefits, patients typically pay the full cost of the treatment upfront and then file a claim with their insurance company for reimbursement. The amount of reimbursement can vary depending on the plan, but it can sometimes be as high as 90%. Call your insurance to see if you have OON benefits or click here to call us and we can check for you!
Is Online Therapy As Effective As In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy is essentially face-to-face counseling, just conducted remotely. Studies show that teletherapy is as effective as traditional counseling. Professional organizations and state governments recognize its benefits and have set regulations for it. However, like any therapy, its success in achieving your goals isn’t guaranteed. It’s important to discuss with your therapist whether teletherapy is working for you.
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Showing up is all that you need to do! But if you really want to get the most out of session, it could help to take some time to think about what you want from therapy. It helps to write down your goals, questions you have or things that you feel are important to share.
Do you offer traditional talk therapy?
of course! though we have some unconventional therapy approaches, we are rooted in evidenced based practices. Talk therapy is a major player in the therapy room! See What we Treat and Integrative Services for more information
Is Virtual Counseling Suitable for Everyone?
Online therapy might not be as effective for individuals with chronic suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, significant mental health history, or those recently in intensive care. Such cases often benefit more from traditional, in-person counseling. We’ll help you decide if our online services are right for you during your intake and evaluation.
Can I Change Therapists If I'm Not Happy?
Yes, you can switch therapists to another provider within the practice, or we can provide you a referral if preferred. We want to ensure that your time and effort are well spent, and that you are getting the relief you need, that’s why we work collaboratively with each other in the practice, as well as outside therapists who we know and trust.
How Do I Know If Therapy Is Helping?
You should feel like you’re making progress. Signs it’s working include:
Feeling comfortable talking to your therapist
Your therapist respects boundaries
You’re moving towards your goals
You feel listened to
You’re doing better in life
Your self-esteem is getting better
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice in the event that they need to cancel to avoid the 50% cancellation fee. we understand that life happens and do our best to be flexible & reschedule.
What Geographic Areas Are Served?
Currently, we serve clients in New Jersey and are expanding to other states as telehealth laws evolve. While telehealth offers the convenience of attending sessions from anywhere, state laws require clients to be in-state during their session.
Is Online Therapy Easy to Use for Non-Tech-Savvy People?
Yes, it’s pretty simple to access sessions. You’ll need basic internet skills, such as opening and visiting the patient link sent to you via email. It’s similar to video chatting like Facetime or Zoom. We can also walk you through it on the phone the first time to ensure a strong connection
What Questions Should I Ask My New Therapist?
Feel free to ask anything. Some good questions are:
- How often will we meet?
- What do you specialize in?
- What experience do you have with my issue?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- How will I know I’m progressing?
- How long do you usually work with clients?
- How will we set my treatment goals?
What is the difference between associate therapists & fully licensed therapists?
Our Qualifications:
Our founder, Rebecca Sidoti, is a highly qualified, state-licensed therapist and supervisor with extensive training in anxiety related disorders and innovative treatment such as Ketamine Therapy. Mind by Design Counseling adheres to standards set by the our governing counseling boards.
To see each providers credentials, training and licenses, visit our “Meet the Therapists” Page to learn more.
- LAC/LSW are therapists who may practice clinical work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist.
- LPC/LCSW are therapists who have completed the necessary clinical hours post-graduation under supervision and can practice clinical work independently.
Where are you located? I need a therapist near me
We are fully online, which means that your therapy sessions will be help via video call on our HIPAA compliant Platform. Anyone in New Jersey can access our therapy services
How do I get started as a new client?
New Clients can reach out to us directly via call, text or email here:
Does my insurance cover my visits?
We provide”Courtesy Billing” for clients who are using the Out-of-network insurance benefits.
Our Insurance Page shares a small blurb about Why We Left Insurance Panels
What are out-of-network benefits?
When using OON benefits, patients typically pay the full cost of the treatment upfront and then file a claim with their insurance company for reimbursement. The amount of reimbursement can vary depending on the plan, but it can sometimes be as high as 90%. Call your insurance to see if you have OON benefits or click here to call us and we can check for you!
Is Online Therapy As Effective As In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy is essentially face-to-face counseling, just conducted remotely. Studies show that tele-therapy is as effective as traditional counseling. Professional organizations and state governments recognize its benefits and have set regulations for it. However, like any therapy, its success in achieving your goals isn’t guaranteed. It’s important to discuss with your therapist whether tele-therapy is working for you.
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Showing up is all that you need to do! But if you really want to get the most out of session, it could help to take some time to think about what you want from therapy. It helps to write down your goals, questions you have or things that you feel are important to share.
Do you offer traditional talk therapy?
of course! though we have some unconventional therapy approaches, we are rooted in evidenced based practices. Talk therapy is a major player in the therapy room! See What we Treat and Integrative Services for more information
Is Virtual Counseling Suitable for Everyone?
Online therapy might not be as effective for individuals with chronic suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, significant mental health history, or those recently in intensive care. Such cases often benefit more from traditional, in-person counseling. We’ll help you decide if our online services are right for you during your intake and evaluation.
Can I Change Therapists If I'm Not Happy?
Yes, you can switch therapists to another provider within the practice, or we can provide you a referral if preferred. We want to ensure that your time and effort are well spent, and that you are getting the relief you need, that’s why we work collaboratively with each other in the practice, as well as outside therapists who we know and trust.
How Do I Know If Therapy Is Helping?
You should feel like you’re making progress. Signs it’s working include:
- Feeling comfortable talking to your therapist
- Your therapist respects boundaries
- You’re moving towards your goals
- You feel listened to
You’re doing better in life - Your self-esteem is getting better
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice in the event that they need to cancel to avoid the 50% cancellation fee. we understand that life happens and do our best to be flexible & reschedule.
What Geographic Areas Are Served?
Currently, we serve clients in New Jersey and are expanding to other states as telehealth laws evolve. While telehealth offers the convenience of attending sessions from anywhere, state laws require clients to be in-state during their session.
Is Online Therapy Easy to Use for Non-Tech-Savvy People?
Yes, it’s pretty simple to access sessions. You’ll need basic internet skills, such as opening and visiting the patient link sent to you via email. It’s similar to video chatting like Facetime or Zoom. We can also walk you through it on the phone the first time to ensure a strong connection
What Questions Should I Ask My New Therapist?
Feel free to ask anything. Some good questions are:
- How often will we meet?
- What do you specialize in?
- What experience do you have with my issue?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- How will I know I’m progressing?
- How long do you usually work with clients?
- How will we set my treatment goals?
What is the difference between associate therapists & fully licensed therapists?
Our Qualifications:
Our founder, Rebecca Sidoti, is a highly qualified, state-licensed therapist and supervisor with extensive training in anxiety related disorders and innovative treatment such as Ketamine Therapy. Mind by Design Counseling adheres to standards set by the our governing counseling boards.
To see each providers credentials, training and licenses, visit our “Meet the Therapists” Page to learn more.
- LAC/LSW are therapists who may practice clinical work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist.
- LPC/LCSW are therapists who have completed the necessary clinical hours post-graduation under supervision and can practice clinical work independently.
