Art Therapy
Where Creativity Meets Healing
A Creative Way to Heal
Self-Discovery Through Art Therapy
Art Therapy at VMA Psych uses guided creative expression to support emotional health and build coping skills in a safe space. Led by certified therapists, it’s ideal for all ages—especially those who struggle to express themselves verbally. No art experience needed, just a willingness to explore.
Janyssa S
2026-02-26
I am incredibly grateful to have found this establishment for my son. I was very hesitant to pursue a developmental assessment through a pediatrician and instead chose VMA Psych—a decision I do not regret in the slightest. The thoroughness of their evaluations is unlike anything I believe we would have received elsewhere. From our very first meeting, I shared that I wanted to move forward with an autism assessment. They gently reassured me, saying, “We don’t have to jump into that assessment just yet; we can start with a more general evaluation first.” That response immediately put me at ease. They helped me understand that there are many possible explanations for developmental concerns, and that autism is just one of several possibilities. I truly appreciated how they broadened my perspective with care and professionalism. I would like to thank the entire team for their patience, compassion, and dedication in working with my son. Despite his diagnosis, they consistently reassured us that he is still very young and that, with continued support, he has every opportunity to thrive and excel. I highly recommend this practice to any parent who has concerns about their child’s development. Their expertise, thoughtfulness, and supportive approach make all the difference.
nancy iannuzzi
2026-02-23
I cannot say enough positive things about the team at VMA Psych. From the very first interaction at reception to every staff member we encountered, the level of care, kindness, and professionalism was exceptional. Dr. Murphy assessed both of my children, and his approach was outstanding. He is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also honest, compassionate, and realistic in a way that truly helps parents understand and move forward with confidence. He took the time to explain everything clearly and made us feel supported every step of the way. The entire experience felt thoughtful, respectful, and genuinely caring. It’s rare to find a clinic where every single person you interact with is so consistently kind and dedicated. I am beyond grateful for the support we received and would highly recommend this clinic to any family looking for thorough, compassionate psychological care.
Alma Lucero Garcia Garcia
2026-02-17
Estoy sumamente agradecida con la ayuda que recibi por parte del doctor y de todas las personas que me ayudaron con los estudios de mi hija.
Robert Marin
2026-02-03
Amazing place would recommend really helps!
john fu
2026-01-27
Excellent professional service with thoughtfulness for customers and their families for various considerations including payment plan etc. Highly recommended!
U Heard
2026-01-23
great service
Mel
2025-10-22
Dr Murphy is fantastic, and has really helped me
4.5/5
Rating
Based on
4.5/5
based on
Rating
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Janyssa S
2026-02-26
I am incredibly grateful to have found this establishment for my son. I was very hesitant to pursue a developmental assessment through a pediatrician and instead chose VMA Psych—a decision I do not regret in the slightest. The thoroughness of their evaluations is unlike anything I believe we would have received elsewhere. From our very first meeting, I shared that I wanted to move forward with an autism assessment. They gently reassured me, saying, “We don’t have to jump into that assessment just yet; we can start with a more general evaluation first.” That response immediately put me at ease. They helped me understand that there are many possible explanations for developmental concerns, and that autism is just one of several possibilities. I truly appreciated how they broadened my perspective with care and professionalism. I would like to thank the entire team for their patience, compassion, and dedication in working with my son. Despite his diagnosis, they consistently reassured us that he is still very young and that, with continued support, he has every opportunity to thrive and excel. I highly recommend this practice to any parent who has concerns about their child’s development. Their expertise, thoughtfulness, and supportive approach make all the difference.
nancy iannuzzi
2026-02-23
I cannot say enough positive things about the team at VMA Psych. From the very first interaction at reception to every staff member we encountered, the level of care, kindness, and professionalism was exceptional. Dr. Murphy assessed both of my children, and his approach was outstanding. He is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also honest, compassionate, and realistic in a way that truly helps parents understand and move forward with confidence. He took the time to explain everything clearly and made us feel supported every step of the way. The entire experience felt thoughtful, respectful, and genuinely caring. It’s rare to find a clinic where every single person you interact with is so consistently kind and dedicated. I am beyond grateful for the support we received and would highly recommend this clinic to any family looking for thorough, compassionate psychological care.
Alma Lucero Garcia Garcia
2026-02-17
Estoy sumamente agradecida con la ayuda que recibi por parte del doctor y de todas las personas que me ayudaron con los estudios de mi hija.
Robert Marin
2026-02-03
Amazing place would recommend really helps!
john fu
2026-01-27
Excellent professional service with thoughtfulness for customers and their families for various considerations including payment plan etc. Highly recommended!
U Heard
2026-01-23
great service
Mel
2025-10-22
Dr Murphy is fantastic, and has really helped me
4.5/5
Rating
Based on
4.5/5
based on
Rating
DEFINITION
What Is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making as a primary tool for emotional expression, insight, and healing. Sessions are led by licensed Art Therapists who are trained in both psychology and creative techniques to support emotional regulation, trauma processing, and personal growth. At VMA Psych, our Art Therapy sessions can stand alone or be integrated with other forms of counselling to create a tailored, holistic care plan.
Art Therapy Can Help With
Anxiety, stress, and emotional overwhelm
Depression or low self-esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Grief and loss
ADHD, Autism, and sensory processing differences
Emotional regulation challenges
Family conflict or social difficulties
Identity and self-expression
How it Works
1
Free Intake Call: We’ll learn more about your goals and match you with an Art Therapist
4
Creative Exploration: Engage in structured or spontaneous art-making designed to express emotion, build skills, or process experience
2
Initial Sessions: Your first appointment is all about comfort: getting to know your therapist and what to expect
5
Verbal Integration: Talk through your experience, uncover insights, and connect creative work to real-life challenges
3
Goal Setting: Collaboratively define emotional or behavioural goals you’d like to work on through art
6
Ongoing Support: Sessions evolve as you grow, whether that means trauma work, emotional regulation, or self-esteem building.
How it Works
1
Free Intake Call: We’ll learn more about your goals and match you with an Art Therapist
2
Initial Sessions: Your first appointment is all about comfort: getting to know your therapist and what to expect
3
Goal Setting: Collaboratively define emotional or behavioural goals you’d like to work on through art
4
Creative Exploration: Engage in structured or spontaneous art-making designed to express emotion, build skills, or process experience
5
Verbal Integration: Talk through your experience, uncover insights, and connect creative work to real-life challenges
6
Ongoing Support: Sessions evolve as you grow, whether that means trauma work, emotional regulation, or self-esteem building.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Who Is Art Therapy For?
Art Therapy is ideal for individuals who:
Struggle to open up through traditional talk therapy
Don’t have the language skills to express themselves fully with words
Are navigating anxiety, trauma, or emotional overwhelm
Want to explore self-expression and identity in a creative way
Benefit from sensory-based or hands-on activities
Are neurodivergent or processing complex emotions
This modality is particularly effective for children and teens, but adults of all ages benefit, too. Art Therapy is offered one-on-one, with family members, or as part of a broader care plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect during an art therapy session with VMA Psych?
In each 50-minute session, you'll engage in creative activities guided by our licensed Art Therapist, Laurel Choat, using art to explore emotions and experiences in a therapeutic setting.
Are the art supplies provided for in-person art therapy sessions at VMA Psych?
Yes, all necessary art supplies are provided by VMA Psych for your session, allowing you to fully immerse in the creative process without any concerns.
How do I book an art therapy session at VMA Psych in Toronto?
Contact VMA Psych to schedule your art therapy session. Our staff will guide you through the booking process to find a time that suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect during an art therapy session with VMA Psych?
In each 50-minute session, you'll engage in creative activities guided by our licensed Art Therapist, Laurel Choat, using art to explore emotions and experiences in a therapeutic setting.
Are the art supplies provided for in-person art therapy sessions at VMA Psych?
Yes, all necessary art supplies are provided by VMA Psych for your session, allowing you to fully immerse in the creative process without any concerns.
How do I book an art therapy session at VMA Psych in Toronto?
Contact VMA Psych to schedule your art therapy session. Our staff will guide you through the booking process to find a time that suits you best.
