Art Therapy
in Phoenix, AZ
Healing Beyond Words: Expressive Therapy for Personal Transformation
At Biltmore Psychology and Counseling, we recognize that the most profound human experiences often transcend what we can express in a traditional conversation. When words feel out of reach, or when the weight of an experience feels too complex to verbalize, Art Therapy provides a powerful, creative pathway to healing.
Our Art Therapy services offer a safe, supportive environment where you can use the creative process to explore your emotions, reduce anxiety, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Guided by a compassionate therapist, you will discover that you don’t need to be an “artist” to find clarity and relief through creative expression.
Is Art Therapy Right For Me?
Art therapy is a versatile and evidence-based modality that is particularly effective for those who feel “stuck” in traditional talk therapy or who are navigating intense emotional transitions. We find it is a wonderful fit for individuals facing:
Trauma & PTSD
Safely processing memories and emotions that are difficult to put into words.
Anxiety & Stress
Using the tactile nature of art to ground the nervous system and find calm.
Depression
Reconnecting with a sense of agency, color, and vitality.
Grief & Loss
Honoring a loved one or navigating the complexities of mourning through visual tributes.
Self-Esteem & Identity
Exploring “who I am” through symbols and creative exploration.
Life Transitions
Navigating the “messiness” of change with a tangible, creative outlet.
The Science of Expression: Why Art Therapy Works
At BPC, we value the intersection of clinical science and human connection. Art therapy is not only a creative outlet; it is a profound neurological tool. Research shows that engaging in the creative process can physically alter the way your brain processes information and emotions.
Accessing the Subconscious: Often, Our “Verbal” Brain (The Left Hemisphere) Can Become an Expert at Rationalizing or Avoiding Difficult Feelings. Art Therapy Engages the Right Hemisphere, Allowing Suppressed Emotions and Subconscious Patterns to Emerge More Naturally.
Building New Perspectives: When you create a visual representation of a problem, it exists outside of yourself. This “externalization” allows you to view your challenges from a distance, making them feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Bypassing the “Filter”: For many, talking about a traumatic event or a deep-seated fear can feel like a secondary trauma. Art therapy allows you to process these experiences at your own pace, providing a safe bridge between silence and healing.
Whether you are looking to resolve deep-rooted trauma or simply want a more holistic way to manage daily stress, the creative process offers a unique path to resilience that traditional conversation alone sometimes cannot reach.
What Art Therapy Is Not
To understand the value of Art Therapy, it is often helpful to clarify what it is not:
- It is NOT an Art Class: We aren’t here to teach you technique, shading, or perspective. There is no “right” way to create, and the final product is not the goal: the process is.
- It is NOT about Talent: You do not need any artistic skill or experience. Whether you draw a stick figure or a masterpiece, the therapeutic value remains the same.
- It is NOT “Just for Kids”: While children love art, Art Therapy is a sophisticated psychological tool used extensively with adults to access the subconscious and promote neurological healing
Meet Kirsten Eby, ATR-BC, LPC
Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor
M.S. Art Therapy Counseling, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
M.A. Teaching, Elementary, American University
B.A. Psychology & Sociology, Tulane University
Kirsten is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist who believes that every individual possesses unique strengths and the inherent capacity for growth. Her approach is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative journey, where the client is the expert of their own life. By integrating traditional talk therapy with the power of creative expression, Kirsten helps her clients gain deeper insight into their emotions and behaviors, enabling them to move past obstacles and live their most fulfilling lives.
Specialties
Art Therapy & Creative Expression
Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, etc.)
Intellectual Disabilities
Positive & Strength-Based Psychology
Trauma & Victim Advocacy
Couples Counseling
Trauma Counseling
Parenting Support For ADHD
Meet Kirsten Eby, ATR-BC, LPC
Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor
M.S. Art Therapy Counseling, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
M.A. Teaching, Elementary, American University
B.A. Psychology & Sociology, Tulane University
Kirsten is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist who believes that every individual possesses unique strengths and the inherent capacity for growth. Her approach is rooted in the belief that therapy is a collaborative journey, where the client is the expert of their own life. By integrating traditional talk therapy with the power of creative expression, Kirsten helps her clients gain deeper insight into their emotions and behaviors, enabling them to move past obstacles and live their most fulfilling lives.
Specialties
Art Therapy & Creative Expression
Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, etc.)
Intellectual Disabilities
Positive & Strength-Based Psychology
Trauma & Victim Advocacy
Couples Counseling
Trauma Counseling
Parenting Support For ADHD
What is an ATR-BC? Understanding Our Clinical Expertise
At Biltmore Psychology and Counseling, we are committed to providing care that is as rigorous as it is compassionate. When you choose art therapy at our practice, you are working with a therapist who holds the ATR-BC credential—the highest professional standard in the field.
ATR-BC stands for Registered Art Therapist-Board Certified. This designation, granted by the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB), ensures that your therapist has met strict national requirements:
- A Master’s degree or higher, specifically in Art Therapy or a related field with significant art therapy-specific coursework.
- Hundreds of hours of post-graduate clinical experience and direct supervision by seasoned professionals.
- Successful completion of a comprehensive board exam covering the psychological theories, ethical standards, and clinical applications of art as a healing modality.
- Adherence to a strict code of ethics and complete ongoing continuing education to stay at the forefront of therapeutic research.
By choosing an ATR-BC clinician, you can feel confident that your creative journey is being guided by a specialist who understands the complex relationship between the brain, the creative process, and psychological health.
Begin your journey with confidence
In a free, no-obligation 10-min consultation we can help you determine whether our services would be the right fit for you.
Our licensed clinicians apply professional expertise and understanding to provide the best holistic counseling services in Phoenix, AZ.
Contact us to schedule a free phone consultation.
Start your journey with confidence
In a free, no-obligation 10-min consultation we can help you determine whether our services would be the right fit for you.
Our licensed clinicians apply professional expertise and understanding to provide the best holistic counseling services in Phoenix, AZ.
Contact us to schedule a free phone consultation.
Art Therapy FAQ
No. BPC provides all the necessary materials. Ranging from paints and clay to collage materials and pastels. All you need to bring is yourself.
Many of our clients start by saying, “I can’t even draw a straight line.” That is perfectly okay! Art therapy is about expression, not aesthetics. Your therapist will guide you through simple prompts that help you focus on your feelings rather than the technical aspects of the art.
Yes. While the art-making is a central part of the session, your therapist will hold space for you to discuss your process, what you discovered, and how the imagery relates to your current life and goals.
While hobbies are relaxing, Art Therapy involves a therapeutic relationship with a licensed professional. The therapist uses specific interventions to help you bridge the gap between your creative work and your psychological well-being.
Meet Our Team
Dr. Melissa Estavillo
Psy.D. Clinical Psychology,
Arizona School of Professional Psychology
M.A. Clinical Psychology,
Arizona School of Professional Psychology
B.S. Psychology,
Grand Canyon University
Dr. Linda DeBiase
Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Lake Forest College
B.A. Psychology
California School of Professional Psychology,
Clinical Psychology
Dr. Nikki Kemper
Psy.D. Clinical Psychology,
Midwestern University
Masters in Clinical Psychology,
Midwestern University
Nicole Elliott, LPC, PMH-C
M.C. Counseling,
Arizona State University
B.A. English (Literature),
Arizona State University
Elizabeth Felix, LPC
M.A. Professional Counseling, Ottawa University
M.A. Human Resources and Substance Abuse,
Ottawa University
B.A. Psychology,
Ottawa University
Laura Reed, LPC
M.S. Professional Counseling,
Grand Canyon University
B.S. Psychology,
Grand Canyon University
Rebecca Fregoso, LPC
M.S. Counseling,
University of Phoenix
B.A. Psychology,
California State University
Kirsten Eby, LPC, ATR-BC
M.S. Art Therapy Counseling
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville
M.A. Teaching, Elementary
American University
B.A. Psychology & Sociology
Tulane University
Dr. Melissa Estavillo
Psy.D. Clinical Psychology, Arizona School of Professional Psychology M.A. Clinical Psychology, Arizona School of Professional Psychology B.S. Psychology, Grand Canyon University
Dr Linda DeBiase
Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, Doctorate in Clinical Psychology Lake Forest College, B.A. Psychology California School of Professional Psychology, Clinical Psychology
Dr Nikki Kemper
Psy.D. Clinical Psychology, Midwestern University Masters in Clinical Psychology, Midwestern University
Nicole Elliott, LPC
M.C. Counseling, Arizona State University B.A. English (Literature), Arizona State University
Elizabeth Felix, LPC
M.A. Professional Counseling, Ottawa University M.A. Human Resources and Substance Abuse, Ottawa University B.A. Psychology, Ottawa University<
Laura Reed, LPC
M.S. Professional Counseling, Grand Canyon University B.S. Psychology, Grand Canyon University
Rebecca Fregoso, LPC
M.S. Counseling, University of Phoenix, B.A. Psychology, California State University
Kirsten Eby, LPC, ATR-BC
M.S. Art Therapy Counseling Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville M.A. Teaching, Elementary American University B.A. Psychology & Sociology Tulane University
Our Location in Phoenix, AZ
Address:
6245 N 24th Parkway, Suite #106 Phoenix, Arizona 85016
Phone: (480) 999-7070
Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
