art therapy

Combines Therapeutic Support with Creative Activities

Children often communicate through creativity long before they can fully express their thoughts and feelings with words. Art therapy provides a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way for children to explore emotions, build coping skills, and process life’s challenges through creative expression.

for children

How Art Therapy Helps Children

Through drawing, painting, collage, storytelling, and other creative activities, children can express thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to communicate verbally.

  • Identify and express emotions
  • Build self-esteem and confidence
  • Develop healthy coping skills
  • Improve emotional regulation
  • Strengthen problem-solving abilities
  • Process difficult experiences
  • Reduce anxiety and stress
  • Improve social and communication skills

No artistic talent is required. The focus is on the creative process and emotional growth, not the final artwork.

Art Therapy Can Support Children Experiencing:

Anxiety and excessive worry

ADHD and attention challenges

School-related stress

Behavioral concerns

Emotional regulation difficulties

Family changes such as divorce or separation

Grief and loss

Trauma or difficult life experiences

Low self-esteem

Social challenges and friendship difficulties

A Safe Space for Self-Expression

Many children find it easier to express themselves through art than through conversation alone. Creative activities can help children communicate feelings, gain insight into their experiences, and develop healthier ways to navigate challenges.

Von creates a supportive and encouraging environment where children can explore emotions at their own pace while building trust, confidence, and resilience.

expectation

What to Expect in Art Therapy

Art therapy sessions are tailored to your child’s age, developmental level, interests, and goals. Activities may include:

  • Drawing and painting
  • Collage and mixed media projects
  • Creative storytelling
  • Therapeutic crafts
  • Visual emotion exploration
  • Mindfulness-based art activities

Sessions are designed to help children feel comfortable, engaged, and empowered while working toward meaningful therapeutic goals.

Why Work with Von Hart-Orr?

As a trained art therapist, Von Hart-Orr uses creative expression as a powerful therapeutic tool to help children process emotions, navigate challenges, and build confidence. Her approach combines warmth, creativity, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques to support each child’s unique needs.

Graduate Intern

Von is currently gaining experience in the counseling field.

Supervised

Von is interning at Spring Grove Counseling under the supervision of James Mena and Heidi Grover.


Have Questions?

Frequently Asked
Questions

Does my child need to be artistic to benefit from art therapy?

No. Art therapy is for all children, regardless of artistic ability. The focus is on self-expression, emotional growth, and healing rather than creating artwork that looks a certain way.

What age groups can participate in art therapy?

Art therapy is often beneficial for school-age children and preteens. During a consultation, Von can help determine whether art therapy is a good fit for your child.

Can art therapy help children with anxiety?

Yes. Art therapy can provide children with healthy ways to express worries, understand emotions, and develop coping skills that reduce anxiety and stress.

Is art therapy different from regular art classes?

Yes. While creativity is involved, art therapy is guided by therapeutic goals rather than artistic instruction. The focus is on emotional well-being, self-understanding, and personal growth.

Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation