Question 1

Why Choose Art Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Did you know that less than an hour of creative activity can reduce your stress and have a positive effect on your mental health, regardless of artistic experience or talent?

Some ways Art Therapy may help:
~ To unpack old Ideas into a new framework
~To work with your mind and your body  
~To not talk about it but still process it 
~To be curious and engaged with your inner world 
~To use your creative voice to express and decompress

Question 2

Who do you work with?

Accepted Answer

I offer Art Therapy in a neurodivergent affirming framework for ages 5-105.  I love to work with individuals who are curious to use creative expression as medicine for the mind.

I provided individual care for those who might be experiencing loss, recovering from trauma, offer support through life transitions, provide safe haven for depression/anxiety, support Autism/ADHD and nervous system regulation through creative care practices.

I also love to offer Therapeutic Art Workshops monthly, weekly and randomly 
 • Check out my upcoming Workshops(https://www.westcoastexpressive.com/workshops)

Question 3

Who am I?

Accepted Answer

I am a mother of two wild ones, neurodivergent therapist, maker of things who loves to create safe space for individuals to unwrap their potential. I am happiest when working with my hands, preferably barefoot and outdoors. I am often heard making statements like "Bet I could make that" "Grow that" or "Support that". You will usually find me in the garden, studio or curled up somewhere dreamy sketching up my next adventure.

Still curious? More info here :)  (https://www.westcoastexpressive.com/about)

Question 4

How is Art Therapy different from an Art Class?

Accepted Answer

In an art class the focus is on skill development to create an end product to share. Art Therapy is a collaboration of Art-making & Psychotherapy.

With Art Therapy we shift our goal to pure expression. So what would that look like? Perhaps rather than talking about what brought us in the door,  we might express through a sound, a brush stroke or scribble as a place of unpacking.

When we are creative we drop past the places our words protect. Here we can shift the pieces that keep us stuck, release blockages and find meaning in our instinctual responses. 
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It is my role to be your witness and ally. This alliance transforms your art-making to psychotherapy through the relationship formed. You will find a confidential safe space with an unbiased view to be heard for who you are and supported towards where you might like to go.

So no...not at all like an art class :)

Question 5

Tell me about your workshops!

Accepted Answer

My workshops are not therapy but meant as an invitation towards wellness where I weave my formal art training with expressive techniques so you emerge rejuvenated and hopefully curious to do more.  The groups are intentionally small to offer a relaxed conversational atmosphere where I hope you feel at home. There is a little something for everyone. Offering Youth & Adult Workshops weekly, monthly and randomly! 
Come check it out (https://www.westcoastexpressive.com/workshops):)

Welcome, I am so glad you're here!

Lora McNeil RCAT, MTC, BFA

Stay Connected

Welcome, I am so glad you're here!

Lora McNeil RCAT, MTC, BFA

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Stay Connected