When words fall short, creativity speaks.

Some experiences live deeper than language. They show up as tension in your body, a knot in your chest, or a feeling you can't quite name. Expressive arts therapy creates space for those wordless parts of you to be seen and understood—through art, movement, imagery, or sound. At Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness, you don't need to be "good at art" to benefit. You just need to be willing to explore what happens when creativity becomes part of your healing.

Expressive Arts FAQ's
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​Do I need to be artistic or creative? 

​Not at all. Expressive arts therapy is not about artistic skill, talent, or producing something “good.” It’s about using creative expression as a tool for exploration and healing. Stick figures, abstract shapes, movement, words, or simple imagery are all welcome.
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​What kinds of art or activities might we use?

Depending on your comfort level and goals, sessions may include drawing, painting, collage, writing, guided imagery, movement, music, or other creative forms. Some sessions may involve art-making, while others may focus more on reflection and conversation. You always have choice in how you participate.
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​Is this instead of talk therapy, or in addition to it?

Expressive arts therapy often integrates with talk therapy. Some clients find that creative work helps them access feelings or insights that they can then explore through conversation. Others prefer to let the creative process take the lead. There’s no single “right” way – your therapist will collaborate with you to find what works best.
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​What if I feel uncomfortable or self-conscious?

That’s very common – especially at first. Expressive arts therapy moves at your pace, and nothing is ever forced. You’re welcome to observe, reflect, or engage minimally until you feel ready. The focus is on emotional safety, not performance or vulnerability for its own sake.
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How can expressive arts therapy help with trauma or stress?

Creative expression can be a gentle way to process experiences that feel overwhelming or difficult to put into words. It can support emotional regulation, deepen self-awareness, and create a sense of distance and safety when exploring painful material. This approach is often grounding and body-aware, making it especially helpful for trauma-informed work.
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What happens to the art I create?

That’s up to you. Some clients keep their artwork, others leave it behind, and some choose to discard it. The art itself isn’t the “treatment” – it’s the experience of creating and reflecting that matters. You’ll always have agency over what feels right.
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Is expressive arts therapy appropriate for neurodivergent clients?

Yes. Many neurodivergent clients find expressive arts therapy supportive because it allows for nonverbal expression, sensory awareness, and flexible communication. Sessions can be adapted to honor sensory preferences, pacing needs, and different ways of processing information.
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Can expressive arts therapy help with identity exploration?

Absolutely. Expressive arts therapy can be a powerful way to explore identity, values, culture, and lived experience – especially for clients navigating questions related to gender, sexuality, race, trauma, or life transitions. Creativity offers space for complexity, nuance, and self-definition.
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What does a typical session look like?

A session often includes:
  • A brief check-in
  • A creative prompt or activity (optional and flexible)
  • Time to reflect on emotions, sensations, or themes that emerged
  • Integration into your broader therapeutic goals
Some sessions may be more reflective, others more creative – the process evolves with you.
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How do I know if expressive arts therapy is right for me?

You don’t have to know for sure. Curiosity is enough. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or interested in exploring therapy beyond words, expressive arts therapy may be worth trying. We can explore together whether this approach fits your needs.

Learn more about our clinicians who incorporate Expressive Arts Therapy

Hayley McCraw, MA, LCMHCA

Winston-Salem office

Emily Ortiz Badalamente, MA, LCMHC, ATR-BC

Winston-Salem office

Vika Hunter, MA, LCMHCA

Winston-Salem office

Tiffany Woods, MA, LCMHC, NCC

Winston-Salem office