Art Therapy

Art therapy is a technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being within an individual.

Art therapists at Family Therapy Associates utilize the creative process of making art to help manage unwanted behaviors and feelings, as well as, to reduce stress and to improve self-awareness.  This technique is especially helpful for individuals who struggle to articulate with words how they are feeling.  Art therapists are trained to pick up on nonverbal symbols and metaphors that are often expressed through art and the creative process. It is through this process that the individual really begins to see the effects of art therapy and the discoveries that can be made. 
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Jaydn Alexander, MA, LPC-IT
Art Therapy & Mental Health Skills Provider
Area of Focus: Children, Adolescents, Trauma 
 
I am experienced in supporting children, adolescents and teens through emotional regulation, coping skill development, feeling identification, trauma processing and social skill development. I trust in the power of art-making to guide the therapeutic process based on the needs of individuals. 

I am skilled in providing an adaptable space that meets the client where they are at and provides an opportunity for growth through creative exploration. 

I value the ability of art and other expressive therapies to reveal the inherent wisdom, strength and resilience within all of us. I work to help clients discover the positive attributes within themselves. My hope is that by providing an accepting space for free expression, clients can learn to trust themselves and discover their strengths through the art making process.
 
I am under the supervision of Nick Flier, MA, LPC.

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Leah Nightingale, MS, LPC-IT, ATR-IT   
Areas of Focus: Adolescents & Adults   
  
Artmaking can offer people the opportunity to express emotions without having to use their words. Often times words fail us and the creative process of making art offers an outlet for appropriate reflection and expression of emotions or experiences. I teach clients skills of self-regulation, mindfulness, positive coping skills, and feeling identification through the use of artistic media.   
 
I have experience working with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. With the use of a humanistic and client-centered approach, I assist clients to uncover their emotions and give them resources on how to express themselves in a safe and healthy way. I strive to meet clients where they are at and help build a safe space for each client to grow toward the life they want to live. Utilizing artmaking can help guide the therapeutic process based on the needs of each client 
 
I am under the supervision of Jennifer Elkin, MS, LPC.