Art Therapy Ottawa
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the creative process of making art to support mental, emotional and physical well-being. It is based on the idea that artistic expression can help people explore their thoughts, emotions and experiences in a non-verbal, non-threatening way. As a result, art therapy can help people of all ages, and it can be used in individual, group, couples or family settings.
In a session, a trained art therapist guides you through art-making activities such as drawing, painting, sculpting or collage. However, the focus is not on producing a masterpiece. Instead, it is on the process of creating and the meaning that emerges from it.
Throughout the process, the art therapist provides a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself, explore your inner world and gain insight into your thoughts and feelings.
How Art Therapy Can Help
Art therapy can support people in several ways. Here are some key aspects of the process.
Self-Expression
Art therapy offers a creative way to communicate thoughts, emotions and experiences that may be hard to put into words. In other words, art can become a visual language for exploring your innermost thoughts and feelings.
Emotional Release and Stress Reduction
Making art can be cathartic, and it can offer a release for pent-up emotions. For this reason, it can serve as a healthy outlet for stress, anxiety and other emotional challenges. Many people also find the creative process relaxing, which can promote a sense of calm and well-being.
Exploration and Self-Discovery
Art therapy encourages you to explore your inner world, gain insight into your experiences and discover new perspectives. In addition, the art-making process can bring hidden thoughts and emotions to the surface. As a result, you may gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the challenges you face.
Symbolism and Metaphor
Art therapy often works with symbols and metaphors. For example, a colour, shape or image might represent a personal experience, an emotion or part of your identity. Exploring these symbols with your therapist can offer valuable insight and support personal growth.
Integration and Empowerment
Finally, art therapy can help you bring your thoughts, emotions and experiences together, which can foster a sense of wholeness and self-empowerment. Through the creative process, you may also gain a sense of control, practise problem-solving and build resilience.
No Art Experience Needed
Art therapy is not about how the artwork looks. Instead, it is about the therapeutic process and the meaning the work holds for you. That’s why no previous art experience is needed.
Art therapists are trained professionals who combine knowledge of psychology and art to support healing and personal growth. Rather than judging your artwork or interpreting it for you, they offer guidance and support while you make connections between your art and your experiences.
What Can Art Therapy Help With?
Art therapy has been used to support a wide range of mental health concerns, including [trauma](VERIFY: PTSD/trauma page URL), depression, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. In addition, research suggests it may help build self-esteem, strengthen coping skills and support personal growth.
Research into art therapy is ongoing, and it is often used alongside other forms of therapy. Because everyone is different, a free consultation is a good way to find out whether art therapy is the right fit for you.
Art Therapy in Ottawa with Elena Kourounis
Elena Kourounis, Art Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), offers art therapy for children ages 8 and older and teens, as well as adults, couples, families and groups. She sees clients in person at MindSpa Gloucester and Kanata, and also online.
Elena also co-authored a chapter in Queer Worldmaking in Art Therapy: Theory and Praxis (Routledge, 2026). You can read more in her article, Lessons from Queer Worldmaking in Art Therapy. In addition, she has been a guest on The MindSpa Podcast twice: Art Therapy in Ottawa: When Creativity Helps Words Emerge (Ep 19) and Relationship Diversity Through an Art Therapist’s Lens (Ep 31).
Group Art Therapy: Second Spring
Looking for connection as well as creativity? Elena also facilitates Second Spring, an 8-week, in-person art therapy group for women navigating perimenopause and menopause at our Gloucester location. No art experience is needed.
Art Therapy Resources
4. Wood, M. J., Molassiotis, A., & Payne, S. (2011). What research evidence is there for the use of art therapy in the management of symptoms in adults with cancer? A systematic review. Psycho-Oncology, 20(2), 135-145.
– This systematic review examines the research evidence for the use of art therapy in managing symptoms in adults with cancer. The review finds that art therapy can help reduce anxiety, depression, and pain, as well as improve overall quality of life in cancer patients. The study highlights the potential of art therapy as a supportive intervention in cancer care.
These peer-reviewed resources provide insights into the theoretical foundations, practical applications, and evidence-based benefits of art therapy. They highlight the stress-reducing, mood-enhancing, and therapeutic effects of engaging in art-making. Additionally, they demonstrate the positive impact of art therapy on mental health, well-being, and symptom management in various populations, including those with cancer. Consulting these and other relevant studies can offer a deeper understanding of art therapy and its evidence-based approach to promoting healing and well-being.