“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)
Art therapy that integrates Biblical and clinical care
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.
At Grace Christian Counseling, art therapy combines the creative process with professional counseling and a Christ-centered approach. It is available for children, adults, older adults, and families at our Irwin and Penn Hills offices in Western Pennsylvania.
Contact us about art therapy
What is art therapy?
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 is not an art class, and you do not 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. They can help you notice feelings, gain insight, and practice new ways of coping. Because art can say what words sometimes cannot, it can be especially helpful for children, for people who find talking difficult, and for anyone carrying pain that is hard to describe.
Who art therapy can help
Art therapy adapts to all ages and needs. Our program has offered an avenue of healing for children, adults, and families. It can support people working through concerns such as:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and low mood
- Trauma and painful past experiences
- Grief and loss
- Life transitions and changes that come with aging
- Spiritual struggles and questions of faith
You do not need to know exactly what is wrong before reaching out. If you are 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.
Our approach to art therapy
Individualized care
Every person is different. Your therapist tailors creative techniques to your age, needs, and goals, so you can express emotions, past hurts, and current struggles that may be difficult to put into words.
Biblical principles
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (ESV)
Faith is at the heart of our care. With your input, sessions can include Scripture, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance, both in counseling and in between-session reflection.
Your safety matters
We work to create a safe, warm, and healing environment. Art allows you to express emotions, pain, and struggles at your own pace and in your own way, without pressure to say more than you are ready to share.
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 incorporates a variety of art processes into therapy as a form of communication and a way to help clients create meaningful change.
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. Adrienne especially enjoys working with children, older adults, and individuals with spiritual needs.
Outside the office, Adrienne enjoys making art, kayaking, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She is a big animal and nature lover who also enjoys horseback riding.
Contact Adrienne“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
Romans 15:13 (ESV)
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.
Find a new way to heal
Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, art therapy offers a safe, creative path toward hope and healing. Reach out when you are ready.
Contact us about art therapyGrace's Counseling Blueprint
Integrating Biblical & Clinical Care
Take off the Mask
Grace counselors act as a mirror reflecting back to you how God actually sees you. Imagine embracing how God sees you rather than hiding behind a mask.
Heal the Wounds
Our Christian counselors help you unpack your pain and trauma. Once you've located the root issues, we will work together to create healing for your wound.
Remove the Toxins
While it's tempting to create another mask, our integrated Christian counseling helps you remove the toxic beliefs that are harming you.
Replace with Truth
All truth resides from God's perspective and is critical for your transformation. To be all that you can be, it is vital for you to understand who you were always created to be.
Christ Centered
We believe that Jesus is essential to understanding our identity and purpose.
Clinical Counseling
We provide counseling that blends faith-based principles with clinically excellent care.
At Your Convenience
For your convenience we provide in-person or online counseling sessions.
Caring Counselors
We prioritize building authentic connections with all of our clients.