Creative therapeutic approaches for emotional expression and healing
Registered with CRPO or OCSWSSW; see each profile for the exact designation
Receipts and invoices provided after each session
Thornhill office or secure video in ON, AB, BC, MB & SK
Art and Play Therapy provide children, adolescents, and even adults with alternative ways to process emotions, explore experiences, and build coping skills through creative and imaginative expression.
Using evidence-based Art Therapy and Play Therapy interventions, therapists create a safe, engaging environment where clients can express themselves creatively and symbolically, fostering growth, self-understanding, and resilience.
In therapy sessions, clients will be encouraged to engage with creative materials and play-based activities under the guidance of a trained therapist. While the process may feel like play or art-making, the underlying therapeutic goals include emotional processing, improved communication, and the development of coping strategies tailored to the client’s needs.
Research shows that creative modalities like Art and Play Therapy are especially effective for children and adolescents who may lack the words to fully describe their inner experiences. By engaging in drawing, painting, storytelling, or play scenarios, clients are able to externalize feelings and experiences in a non-threatening way. This process helps reduce emotional distress and supports cognitive and emotional development.
Play Therapy in particular has been demonstrated in peer-reviewed studies to improve social skills, emotional regulation, and behavioral functioning in children. Art Therapy, similarly, allows for symbolic processing of trauma, stress, or relational challenges. Both modalities can be adapted for adults as well, offering alternative ways to access self-expression, creativity, and healing.
Sivan IbragimovRegistered Psychotherapist (RP)In person in Thornhill & online
Rachel KarantayerPsychotherapist & Art Therapist (Qualifying)In person in Thornhill & online
Aisha MohsinRegistered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)Online
Owen Dooley-PhillipsRegistered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)In person in Thornhill & online
Yakov IliabaevRegistered Psychotherapist (RP)In person in Thornhill & online1118 Centre Street, Suite #205, Thornhill, ON L4J 7R9. Evening hours Monday to Thursday, Friday until 2 PM, and Sunday appointments.
Secure video sessions for clients anywhere in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. Same clinicians, same session length.
Sessions are billed per session and the fee depends on the clinician; we confirm it on your free consultation before anything is booked. Receipts for extended health insurance after every session, and direct billing with many insurers where your plan allows it.
A 30-minute call with our matching team, by phone or video, with no obligation. Most first sessions follow within one to two weeks.
No, while these modalities are commonly used with children, adolescents and adults can also benefit from creative therapeutic approaches, particularly when verbal expression feels difficult.
Not at all. The focus of Art and Play Therapy is not on artistic skill or the final product, but on the process of expression, exploration, and healing in a safe environment.
It depends on your child’s age and what the work needs. With younger children a parent is often present or nearby and the therapist checks in with you regularly; teens usually meet on their own, with parents brought in as agreed. You will always know how the sessions are structured.
Children and teens. Younger children usually work through art and play, where the materials do the talking; teens choose between creative and talk-based approaches, and many use both.
Take the first step toward positive change. Our compassionate therapists are here to support you.