Art Therapy for All - Expressive Therapies with LGBTQ+ Clients
by Hayley Stillings, MS, Resident in Counseling
“To see yourself, and for others to see you, is a form of validation.”
Mickalene Thomas, visual artist
To be witnessed authentically is an integral part of the therapy process. At Healing Sounds, we strive to provide inclusive and affirming therapy that invites our clients to explore various intersections of their identity. All people, including LGBTQ+ identifying people, deserve to have a validating therapeutic environment where they can process, heal, and thrive.
Although interest and support of the LGBTQ+ experience has increased significantly in recent years, research has routinely found that LGBTQ+ individuals are at higher risk for developing major depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse and many more disorders over the course of their lives. Social stigma and discrimination can contribute to developing various mental health struggles.
Art therapy is unique because unlike traditional therapy that utilizes verbal processing, expressive therapies open clients to nuanced and layered ways of processing and unpacking their unique lived experience. Through art therapy, expressive interventions provide a new lens for clients who identify as LGBTQ to explore sexuality, gender expression and identity.
Additionally, clients are supported in creating art which explores themes like shame and stigma, the coming out process, family conflict, rejection, sexual abuse and/or trauma, and more. Clients will do this through various processes, which may include; drawing and painting, collage and mixed media, sculpture/assemblage, textile arts, dollmaking. In our work with clients, we encourage them to discover new ways of thinking which explore the sensory, kinesthetic, symbolic and affective aspects of creative expression.
To learn more about working with me, or other therapists at Healing Sounds, click the button below:
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Resources
He She Ze and We supports Transgender and Nonbinary people by empowering their families, communities, and allies to create life-saving, inclusive environments.
Side by Side is dedicated to creating supportive communities where Virginia’s LGBTQ+ youth can define themselves, belong, and flourish.
Human Rights Campaign provides a list of LGBTQ+ specific and/or inclusive hotlines for mental health.
The Trevor Project provides resources for understanding the various identities that fall under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, as well as spaces for LGBTQ+ young people (13-24) to connect with friends.
The It Gets Better Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the globe. They provide uplifting and inspiring stories through video and blog formats, as well as an extensive resource list.