Photo of Open Mind Health, Psychiatrist in 23462, VA
Open Mind Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. We offer customized holistic treatment plans in our wellness tracks developed to provide lasting results, Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today to get started on your path to mental wellness at 855-550-MIND (6463).
(619) 949-0858 View (619) 949-0858
Photo of Timothy A Sanderson, Psychiatrist in 23462, VA
Timothy A Sanderson
Psychiatrist, MD, Jungian, ATR
Verified Verified
Having trained as a psychiatrist, an art therapist, and a Jungian analyst, I approach each individual as unique. I focus on the value of that uniqueness and encourage the development of individual solutions to the problems and suffering that individuals bring into treatment. I view anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and problems in relationships as manifestations of unsuccessful attempts to adapt to both the outer world of collective demands and the inner world of one's own individual feelings and needs. Being healthy in the world means balancing the needs for individuality with needs to fit into the collective world.
Having trained as a psychiatrist, an art therapist, and a Jungian analyst, I approach each individual as unique. I focus on the value of that uniqueness and encourage the development of individual solutions to the problems and suffering that individuals bring into treatment. I view anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and problems in relationships as manifestations of unsuccessful attempts to adapt to both the outer world of collective demands and the inner world of one's own individual feelings and needs. Being healthy in the world means balancing the needs for individuality with needs to fit into the collective world.
(757) 695-3107 View (757) 695-3107
Expressive Arts Psychiatrists

What happens in expressive arts therapy?

In an expressive arts therapy session, the therapist will provide the space and materials necessary to encourage the client to express themselves creatively. These can include art supplies, musical instruments, a journal, a camera, and more. The therapist offers careful guidance throughout the creative process, often noticing and talking about psychological issues as they arise. Many clients also benefit from the mind-body connection—the physical act of making art can help them feel more grounded and present.

How long does expressive arts therapy take?

An expressive arts therapy session will typically last between 50 minutes and an hour. Group sessions may run longer. Sometimes, a client might only need one or two sessions of expressive arts therapy in conjunction with talk therapy to resolve a psychological issue. Others might find a fixed number of sessions over the course of either weeks or months to be beneficial. The duration depends on the client and their individual needs and goals for therapy.

How does expressive arts therapy help children?

Creativity is an important part of normal child development. Expressive arts therapy proves a safe outlet for child clients to learn to identify their emotions and express them in healthy ways. In expressive arts therapy, children can build their self-esteem, discover more about their personality and strengths, and feel a sense of normalcy in an otherwise chaotic world. This therapeutic approach can be particularly helpful for children with developmental disabilities, autism, ADHD, speech impairments, and other conditions.

What are the limitations of expressive arts therapy?

Sometimes individuals have physical limitations that can affect their ability to express themselves artistically in certain mediums. For example, someone with hearing problems might find it difficult to make music. Sickness and mobility issues can make some types of art physically inaccessible (e.g., sculpting, dancing, etc.). Sometimes, clients are overly skeptical and have trouble letting go and engaging with the creative process. Individuals who require a higher level of care may be better served with other types of therapy.