Laurel Choat
Art Therapist
RP, DTATI
As a registered Art Therapist, Laurel Choat merges her expertise in design arts with a master’s equivalent from the Toronto Art Therapy Institute (TATI) to offer a unique and creative approach to mental health. With a rich and diverse background, she specializes in trauma and attachment, utilizing creative expression as a powerful therapeutic tool. Laurel has contributed her skills to organizations like Lumenus Community Services, where she has supported children and families through complex emotional and psychological challenges.
Right For You If
Your child struggles to find the words to express feelings
Your child needs a more creative space to process and manage difficult thoughts and feelings
You have tried traditional talk therapy but feel stuck or that it wasn't effective for you.
You are looking for a more holistic or creative approach to emotional healing and personal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Areas Of Support
Anxiety
Depression
Building self-esteem and self-confidence
Bullying strategies
Trauma and attachment support
Professional Focus and Approach
Laurel Choat, RP, DTATI, is a dedicated registered psychotherapist, aligning with the professional standards set by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and maintaining active membership with the Canadian Art Therapy Association. With a strong foundation in design arts from Seneca College, she spent eight years as an art instructor in private schools, fostering creativity and emotional expression in young minds. Her therapeutic approach integrates traditional psychotherapy with art therapy, creating a compassionate, innovative, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can safely explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. By combining evidence-based psychological techniques with the expressive power of art, Laurel helps individuals process trauma, build resilience, and foster personal growth.
Specializations
Laurel specializes in harnessing the transformative power of art and creative expression for healing and self-discovery. With a deep understanding of both psychotherapy and art, she guides clients through the therapeutic process, helping them explore emotions, trauma, and personal challenges through artistic mediums such as painting, drawing, and sculpture. Her work is particularly impactful for individuals who struggle with verbal expression, as art therapy provides an alternative pathway to process difficult experiences. With an empathetic and client-centred approach, Laurel creates a safe, supportive space where individuals can reconnect with their inner strengths, enhance self-awareness, and navigate their mental health journey with confidence and creativity.
Education and Experience
Laurel's educational journey is marked by a deep commitment to her craft. After earning her design arts credentials at Seneca College, she furthered her expertise at the Toronto Art Therapy Institute (TATI), graduating with a master’s equivalent. Notably, Laurel's passion and skills were recognized as she served on the Board of Directors at both TATI and Therapy Through the Arts Foundation. Her academic pursuits have been complemented by real-world experience, including a significant tenure at Lumenus Community Services, specializing in trauma and attachment with latency-aged children.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don't have to go through this journey alone. For expert, dedicated guidance through your mental health challenges, contact VMA Psych, Toronto's trusted source for psychological assessments, and mental health support.