Art Therapy
When words fall short
Some Feelings Are Hard to Put Into Words
Art therapy offers another way to express emotions, past hurts, and current struggles, and to find healing at your own pace. It combines the creative process with professional counseling and a Christ-centered approach.
Does this sound familiar?
You know something is wrong, but every time you try to talk about it, the words won’t come. Or your child shuts down the moment you ask how they’re feeling. Talking it through just hasn’t been enough.
Sometimes healing starts with a paintbrush instead of a sentence.
What is art therapy?
Healing Through Creative Expression
The American Art Therapy Association describes art therapy as a mental health profession in which a trained art therapist uses art-making, the creative process, and psychological theory within a therapeutic relationship.
It isn’t an art class, and you don’t need any artistic skill. The focus is on what you experience and express as you create, not on the finished piece. Drawing, painting, sculpting, and other art processes become a form of communication that can help you notice feelings, gain insight, and practice new ways of coping.
Who art therapy can help
Art Therapy for Every Age
Our program has offered an avenue of healing for children, adults, older adults, and families. It can be especially helpful for people who find it hard to talk about their feelings or experiences.
Anxiety & stress
Calm the body and give shape to worries that feel overwhelming.
Anxiety counseling →Depression & low mood
Reconnect with feelings, hope, and a sense of purpose through creating.
Depression counseling →Trauma & painful experiences
Process hard memories safely, at your own pace, without having to say everything out loud.
Trauma counseling →Children
Art is a natural language for kids who don’t yet have words for big feelings.
Christian counseling for kids →Life transitions & aging
Navigate change, loss of independence, or new seasons of life with creativity and faith.
Life transitions counseling →We also support spiritual struggles and questions of faith. Not sure whether art therapy is the right fit for you or your child? We can help you explore your options, including individual Christian counseling.
What to expect
How Art Therapy Works
Simple shapes, scribbles, and unfinished pieces are all welcome. Your artwork is never judged.
Reach out
Tell our care team what you or your child are facing. We’ll talk through whether art therapy is a good fit and help you schedule.
Get comfortable
Your first sessions focus on getting to know you and creating a safe, warm space. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re ready to.
Create and reflect
Your therapist guides you through drawing, painting, clay, or other art processes chosen for your age, needs, and goals.
Grow and heal
Insights from your art become new ways of coping, with Scripture and prayer included as much as you’d like.
Art Therapy That Integrates Biblical and Clinical Care
Individualized care
Biblical principles
Your safety matters
Meet your art therapist
Meet Adrienne Crist, MA, Art Therapist
- Master of Arts in Art Therapy with Specialization in Counseling, Seton Hill University
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Art, Clarion University of Pennsylvania (now PennWest Clarion)
- Currently working toward becoming a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania
Adrienne believes in the power of art to provide insight and support recovery. She uses a person-centered approach, meeting clients where they are and taking time to understand every part of their lives so they feel safe and supported. She especially enjoys working with children, older adults, and people with spiritual needs.
Outside the office, Adrienne enjoys making art, kayaking, reading, and time with family and friends. She’s a big animal and nature lover who also enjoys horseback riding.
Offices: Irwin and Penn Hills, Pennsylvania
Where we meet
In-Person Art Therapy in Western Pennsylvania
Art therapy with Adrienne is offered in person at our Irwin and Penn Hills offices, where art supplies and a creative space are ready for you.
Prefer to meet from home? Our care team can connect you with online Christian counseling. Questions about cost? See insurance and fees.
Questions About Art Therapy
Do I need to be good at art?
No. Art therapy is about expression, not talent. Simple shapes, scribbles, and unfinished pieces are all welcome, and your artwork is never judged.
Who can benefit from art therapy?
Art therapy can be adapted for children, adults, older adults, and families. It can be especially helpful for people who find it hard to talk about their feelings or experiences.
Is art therapy a recognized form of counseling?
Yes. Art therapy is an established mental health profession, and research on its benefits continues to grow. It takes place within a therapeutic relationship with a trained art therapist, just like other forms of counseling.
Where is art therapy offered?
Art therapy with Adrienne is available at our Irwin and Penn Hills offices in Western Pennsylvania.
Will faith be part of my sessions?
Faith is central to our approach, and your therapist will talk with you about how you would like Scripture, prayer, and biblical principles included in your care.