Photographer: Emily Karcher Photography, LLC
A Space for Healing, Creativity, and Authenticity for Young People
As an art therapist, my mission is to create a safe, creative, and gender-affirming space where LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse teens, adolescents, and young adults can explore their identities, process trauma, and express themselves authentically. I believe therapy is not about “fixing” who you are, but about helping you connect more deeply with yourself, your story, and your strengths.
Why Art Therapy?
Art therapy offers a unique way to communicate when words aren’t enough—or when talking feels too overwhelming. Making art in therapy is not about being “good at art.” Instead, it’s about using color, shape, image, and creative process to express emotions, uncover meaning, and build new ways of coping. Creativity allows us to transform pain into expression, explore identity, and find hope in places that might otherwise feel stuck.
Who I Work With
I am passionate about supporting:
LGBTQ+ teens and young adults seeking an affirming space to explore and celebrate their identities.
Neurodiverse youth who may process the world differently and benefit from creative, nontraditional approaches.
Adolescents navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, or big life transitions.
I am deeply committed to accessibility and believe that healing should be available to everyone—especially queer youth who deserve support that celebrates who they are. Too often, young people are asked to fit into boxes that don’t reflect their reality. In my practice, I strive to remove those barriers and create a space where you can show up fully as yourself—without judgment, without pressure, and without having to explain away your experiences.
My Approach
My work is collaborative and client-centered, meaning we move at your pace and follow what feels meaningful for you. Sessions may look different for everyone: sometimes that might mean painting, drawing, or sculpting; other times, it could be journaling, storytelling, or simply talking. Whatever form it takes, the process is always guided by respect, curiosity, and care.
Through the power of art therapy, I help clients build emotional resilience, connect with their inner world, and discover pathways to growth that honor their unique experiences. Healing is not just about working through challenges—it’s also about rediscovering joy, playfulness, and creativity as tools for living more fully.
What You Can Expect
A nonjudgmental space where all identities and expressions are affirmed.
A creative process that makes therapy feel active and engaging.
A collaborative relationship where your voice and choices guide the work.
A focus on growth, resilience, and self-acceptance, not perfection.
Final Note
I believe that each person holds an inner creativity and strength that can guide them toward healing. My role is simply to walk alongside you, offering tools, compassion, and encouragement as you navigate your own journey. Whether you’re seeking support with identity, emotional challenges, or simply a space to be yourself, I am honored to be part of that process.
Lana, the lab retriever
Lana is nine years old and I’ve had her since she was about 10 weeks young. She didn’t become my co-worker until the pandemic. Her tail will occasionally make an appearance during telehealth sessions. Thankfully she is not a barker, however she can sometimes be heard off camera via carpet scratching, bone gnawing, and talking/yodeling in her sleep. She does not attend in-person sessions.
Photo credit of my sea retriever goes to Emily Karcher Photography, LLC