Expressive Arts Therapy in Vancouver, BC
Art therapy, expressive arts, and creative approaches to healing, for individuals, groups, and drop-in sessions in Kitsilano.
Not everything is easy to put into words. And that is okay.
Expressive arts therapy offers a different way into the therapeutic process. Whether through drawing, painting, collage, movement, or writing, creative expression can help us explore and make sense of experiences that are hard to articulate through talking alone. It is not about being good at art, but about using the creative process as a way to explore what is going on internally.
At New Tides, we offer expressive arts therapy as both individual sessions and group drop-ins, in person at our Kitsilano studio and online. No art experience needed.
What Is Expressive Arts Therapy?
Expressive arts therapy uses creative modalities like visual art, collage, writing, movement, and music as part of a therapeutic process. It is facilitated by a trained therapist, which is what sets it apart from art classes or creative workshops.
Expressive arts therapy can be used alongside talk therapy, as a standalone approach, or as part of a group experience. It works well for people who find it difficult to put feelings into words, or who want a different way into exploring what is going on for them.
A Bit About Natasha
As well as being a Certified Expressive Arts Therapist, I am also Registered Clinical Counsellor. My journey into experiencing the power of the arts began in my grade 7 drama class.
As a young person with big emotions and big energy, my drama class was a place where my feelings were embraced and could be harnessed into characters and stories that helped me to better understand myself. Many years later, that experience still informs my desire to learn more about integrating the arts into my own counselling practice.
I have a particular passion for facilitating groups that foster connection and shared experiences among participants. In our sessions, I hope you feel welcome to take risks, experiment with new ideas and materials, and take time to reflect on what's stirring in you.
What Happens in a Session
Every session looks a little different depending on what you bring and what feels right.
In individual sessions, you and your therapist will work together to explore what is showing up for you, using creative materials as a way in. Your therapist will guide the process, but there is no set agenda and no right way to do it.
In drop-in group sessions, you will work alongside others in a supported, non-judgmental space. These sessions are facilitated by a trained therapist and follow a loose theme or prompt, but you are always free to take things in your own direction. Drop-ins are a good way to try expressive arts in a low-pressure setting before committing to individual sessions, or to maintain a regular creative practice alongside other therapeutic work.
All materials are provided. You do not need to bring anything except yourself.
Who It Might Be For
Expressive arts therapy is a good fit for a wide range of people and concerns. You do not need a specific reason to come. Some of the things people bring to this work:
Trauma and PTSD
Creative approaches can offer a gentler way into trauma processing, especially when talking about it directly feels like too much.
Grief and loss
Art and expressive work can hold things that are hard to articulate, and create space to grieve at your own pace.
Anxiety and overwhelm
The act of making something with your hands can be grounding and regulating in ways that feel different from other forms of therapy.
Building mindfulness and self-awareness
Expressive arts can slow things down and help you tune into what is actually going on for you, in a way that feels active rather than sitting still.
Reconnecting with creativity
Many people arrive having lost touch with a creative part of themselves. These sessions can be a way back into that, without any pressure around the outcome.
Self-worth and identity
Expressive arts can support exploration of who you are, especially for people navigating identity, transition, or a sense of being stuck.
Neurodivergence
Many neurodivergent clients find creative and non-verbal approaches more accessible and less exhausting than purely talk-based therapy.
A desire for something different
Sometimes people just want to try something that is not sitting across from someone and talking. Expressive arts is a different kind of therapeutic experience.
Drop-In Classes and Group Sessions in Vancouver
Our drop-in expressive arts sessions are open to everyone. No experience needed, no commitment required. Sessions run regularly at our Kitsilano studio. Check the calendar below for upcoming dates.
Why group sessions?
Connection: Making art alongside others in a supported space can feel surprisingly connecting, even without talking about what you are making.
Affordability: Group drop-ins are a more accessible entry point than individual sessions, making expressive arts available to more people.
A gentle introduction: Drop-ins are a low-pressure way to experience expressive arts therapy before committing to individual sessions. Many clients use them as a starting point, or as a regular practice alongside other therapeutic work.
Want to try it?
If you are curious about expressive arts therapy but not sure if it is right for you, the drop-in sessions are a good place to start. Low pressure, no commitment, just a chance to experience what it is like.
For individual sessions, all of our practitioners offer a free 15-minute consultation so you can get a sense of who you feel comfortable with before getting started.
In-person at our Kitsilano clinic (1682 West 7th Ave, Suite 300, Vancouver BC) and online for clients across British Columbia.