When Words Aren't Enough
For many people, the idea of therapy conjures images of a couch and a steady stream of conversation. But for clients who find verbal expression difficult — whether due to age, trauma, or neurodivergence — there is another path. Art therapy uses the creative process as a vehicle for the same therapeutic goals, often reaching places that words alone cannot.
Bree Beaudette, a licensed creative arts therapist (LCAT) practicing in New York, describes the distinction simply: "In talk therapy as the therapist I'm focused on gathering information, building rapport, and utilizing therapy techniques primarily via verbal communication. Art therapy can have the same goals as talk therapy but the way we get to the outcome is less through verbal communication and more through the art process."
This approach, she explains, is especially valuable for clients who are non-verbal, reluctant to share in conventional ways, or simply struggle with verbal communication. A child drawing their family, for instance, allows the therapist to build rapport and learn about family dynamics without relying on a single spoken question.
No Artistic Talent Required
A common misconception about art therapy is that it requires some level of artistic skill. Beaudette is quick to dispel that notion. "Clients do not need any artistic experience or skill for an art therapy session, but it helps if they have a willingness to try something new or an interest in art/creativity."
A typical session begins with a focus or goal — perhaps building self-esteem, reducing anxiety, or processing trauma. From there, Beaudette selects an art intervention tailored to that objective. For a client struggling with perfectionism, she might suggest blind drawings, where the client draws without looking at the paper for a set time. "This could be a helpful exposure for a client that is fearful of making mistakes," she notes.
Because she is trained in using art materials with clients, Beaudette can provide instruction even to those who have never picked up a paintbrush. But the emphasis is never on the finished product. "I always tell clients that art therapy isn't art class... What I am focused on is the process they went through to make the art, and what meaning they find in it."
Adapting to Telehealth
The shift to remote therapy posed unique challenges for art therapists, but Beaudette has found practical workarounds. She begins by asking what materials clients have at home. "I've had clients that may only have a pencil and paper and we absolutely can still utilize art making in session this way!" she says. Demonstrating techniques over video is feasible, though lighting and connectivity can occasionally obscure fine details of a client's work — a limitation she considers manageable.
Who Shows Up
Beaudette describes herself as a generalist, seeing clients across the lifespan, from children to older adults. A significant portion of her caseload identifies as neurodivergent (including Autism and ADHD) or LGBTQIA+. Common presenting concerns include depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma. She also has a special interest in co-occurring medical and chronic health issues, stemming from her training in an end-of-life facility.
Importantly, she challenges the notion that therapy is only for those with a diagnosed mental health condition. "I also often see clients that are struggling with a life transition or relationship issues that they want counseling for."
The First Step
For anyone curious about whether art therapy might be right for them, Beaudette offers a free initial consultation. During that brief conversation, she introduces herself, shares her background, and gathers information about what the client is seeking. She assesses whether she is a good fit or whether a referral to another specialist or a higher level of care would be more appropriate. Insurance and payment are also discussed. If all aligns, an intake appointment is scheduled.
Beaudette's practice, Bree Beaudette, MAAT-C, LCAT, is part of a growing network of creative arts therapy providers in New York. For those who have felt unheard in traditional talk therapy — or who simply want to explore a different avenue for self-expression — her work offers a compelling alternative.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.