Sessions in English

The beauty of art therapy is that it doesn’t require any formal training or previous art experience. Creativity is an innate and fundamental aspect of the self that anyone can learn to tap into to heal the body and mind. It is one of the most powerful inner resources we have to restore balance to our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.

I believe in a transparent, evidence-based, and individually tailored approach to art therapy that is grounded in psychoeducation, empowering clients to take control of their own healing both in and outside of our the therapy session. In a warm and relaxed environment where creative play enables greater self-awareness and self-compassion, I can help you to understand the influence that different art materials and processes have on your nervous system and how to make the most of their unique therapeutic benefits.

I couldn’t imagine a better way of supporting others than through a process of creative expression. I look forward to working together towards your therapeutic goals in a style that is in tune with your personal comfort, interests and needs.

I am neurodiversity, disability, and chronic-illness affirming therapist. My practice is anchored in a holistic, relational and trauma-informed framework, and I am happy to work with clients of all ages and all stages of life.

Sessions in English The beauty of art therapy is that it doesn’t require any formal training or ... Read More

Sessions in English

Victoria, British Columbia

Emily Hull is a student art therapist studying at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT). Emily’s practice is human centered, flexible and ecologically conscious, providing art therapy that supports an individual’s journey to find purpose and belonging as we navigate life. She began her education in Fine Arts and continued on to graduate from University of Victoria with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Her experience facilitating provincially funded family support programs, mentoring young artists and navigating the complex world of mental health supports for children and youth have honed Emily’s skills and passion for art therapy.

Born and raised in a small town on the Prairies with an abundance of time, space and inspiration, Emily experienced the power of art and creativity as a tool for processing emotions, exploring identity and supporting resilience. Today she delights in watching this exploration continue in her own children. She believes art can be a lasting modality to strengthen relationships, support understanding and foster growth. Emily’s special interests include working with new parents, parents or caregivers of neurodivergent children, kids, teens, and individuals interested in exploring art therapy to navigate significant life changes.

Sessions in English Victoria, British Columbia Emily Hull is a student art therapist studying a... Read More

I am an art therapy student with a diverse background. I received my Bachelor of Music (violin) and Bachelor of Education (music and visual arts) from the University of Saskatchewan 2000 and completed my Master of Education in 2019.

I have taught English in both Taiwan and Poland, fitness and yoga classes with emphasis on working with older adults, music, art workshops, fall protection on work sites, and skydiving. I have also worked as an instructional designer. I currently volunteer as an online facilitator for The Gatehouse Phase One program.

Art has been a driving force in my life since I was old enough to hold a crayon. Though I graduated from my favourite Crayola Caddy a couple decades ago, you will still find the latest pack of 100 crayons on my desk at all times (the ones with the sharpener!). I take a humanistic approach with clients but draw from some of Carl Jung’s ideas, particularly his work with dreams and active imagination.

I believe much can be processed through creative journaling and other expressive arts. I look forward to facilitating people from all walks of life on their journey!

I am an art therapy student with a diverse background. I received my Bachelor of Music (violin) a... Read More

Sessions in English

Kate Brown is a student art therapist studying at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT). She graduated from Mount Allison University with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts (BFA) and a minor in Classics. Born and raised on the East Coast of Canada, Kate stands out amidst other Maritimers for her aversion to dulse and donairs. While her teachers taught the rest of her peers long division, Kate was only interested in making art. Thankfully, she did start paying attention, but that love for the arts never disappeared. After discovering art therapy, she was ecstatic to finally combine her passion for art with the desire to help others. She aims to create a safe and welcoming space where people can explore their thoughts with artistic expression through various materials and methods.

Sessions in English Kate Brown is a student art therapist studying at the Canadian International... Read More

I have lived most of my life in rural Northern Ontario and Manitoba (Treaties 1, 2, 3, & 5), where access to mental health services can be quite limited. My life experiences and working both in schools and in community mental health, fanned my passion to improve access and supports for rural communities and prompted my return to school.

I graduated from Brandon University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in psychology. I continued to the art psychotherapy diploma program at CiiAT because of their focus on virtual therapy. Here, I have learned how healing, powerful and transformative art therapy is in its ability to express concepts that are difficult to verbally articulate.

I use a client-centred, strength-based approach and will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you. I invite you to grab your favourite media and dive in. Personally, I love creative journaling, working with fibre (spinning, knitting, crocheting, weaving) and I would never underestimate what a simple pencil can do.

I have lived most of my life in rural Northern Ontario and Manitoba (Treaties 1, 2, 3, & 5), ... Read More

Sessions in English

Golzar Safakish received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University in Toronto, Ontario. Her passion to create art began at a young age and has continued to aid her in her own personal growth and self-discovery into adulthood. She is a firm believer that every individual has the innate ability to be creative and can benefit from the use of art as an outlet for self-expression. With a background in psychology and a desire for helping others, she is committed to supporting her clients in reaching their therapeutic goals through the process of art-making. Golzar takes a person-centred approach in her practice as she adapts her interventions to nurture the needs and goals of each individual client. Her therapeutic process ensures that her clients have a non-judgmental space where they can feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and emotions at their own pace. In addition to her studies at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy, Golzar makes an ongoing effort to do her own personal research to deepen her understanding of various therapeutic techniques and modalities. She hopes to use her knowledge and therapeutic skills to guide her clients on a journey toward healing, self-empowerment and emotional well-being.

Sessions in English Golzar Safakish received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York Univer... Read More

Are you feeling stuck in your life somehow, and you’re wondering if a little art might help you find another perspective?

I believe that everyone deserves support when life gets hard. A listening ear and a box of crayons (or paints) can sometimes make a change from feeling alone and frustrated to feeling connected and hopeful.

I’m new to art therapy, but I’m not new to helping people. Here’s a little bit about me:

As a career coach, I’ve worked with hundreds of amazing people over more than a decade, helping them uncover their motivation and find new solutions and resources. As well, I’ve been a pastor, a college instructor, and a business owner. Personally, along the way, I have enjoyed urban sketching and interior decorating as a way to express some creativity. It is my way to de-stress and have fun! Only recently did I realize that my need for creativity and my desire to support people could be combined. So, along with my previous two degrees and a post-graduate certificate, I am embarking on a new journey with CiiAT to become an art therapist. I’m excited because I believe that authentic listening and a little creativity can be transformative.

If I sound like a fit for you, then let’s connect. Maybe you and I and a few art supplies can help you feel a little less stuck and a bit little more hopeful again.

Are you feeling stuck in your life somehow, and you’re wondering if a little art might help you f... Read More

As a future professional art therapist, I’m passionate about the healing power of art and its ability to facilitate significant emotional and psychological growth.

My journey began in Belarus, where I got a Master’s degree from the Pedagogical University. This foundation in education helped me develop a deep understanding of human development and learning processes, which is essential in therapeutic work.

After moving to Canada, I continued my professional development and successfully graduated from the MaxtheMutt College of Art, Animation, and Design in Toronto. This experience enriched my creativity and understanding of visual storytelling.

Currently, I am a student at the Canadian International Institute of Art Psychotherapy, where I am expanding my skills and knowledge in art therapy and deepening my understanding of mental health, creativity, and healing.

I am also undergoing additional training in Family Constellation, which gives me a deeper understanding of family, systemic rules and their impact on personal development.

Additionally, I am interested in Reiki and its healing principles. I completed two levels of Reiki training and primarily use it for my family and myself.

Overall, my diverse background allows me to offer a comprehensive, client-centered approach to art therapy. It helps me to guide clients in expressing their emotions and experiences through various artistic media, providing them with a safe space to explore and process their inner worlds.

As a future professional art therapist, I’m passionate about the healing power of art and its abi... Read More

Meet Stefanie!

Sessions in English

With a background in Fine Art (BA, Wilfrid Laurier ‘06) and Developmental Psychology (BIS, University of Waterloo, ‘16), I discovered Art Therapy in 2003 during my undergraduate studies at WLU, and the desire to become an Art Therapist never left as I went on to become a mother and raised my children.

As a young mom I used art making to foster connection with my children and our community and to care for myself as I navigated the complexities of motherhood and adapting to adult life including anxiety, grief, shame, and doubt.

In 2023 (20 years later!) I chose to pick up where I left off and begin my Graduate Diploma in Art Psychotherapy, my goal is to support women like myself who may be:

-Trying to find a way to carve out time for themselves, and learn new ways to take care of themselves through art making;

-Navigating the end of a relationship by separation or divorce, AND/OR growing new relationships while co-parenting and blending families;

-Looking to re-align with their life goals they may have put aside to care for others;

-“Sandwiched” between caring for children and caring for aging parents or relatives;

-Late-diagnosed neurodivergent, and/or are caring for neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autism, AuDHD).

I bring my lived experience and personal values of curiosity, compassion and creativity along with a commitment to provide a judgment-free space in each session to make room for you to unmask and explore your authentic self through art making. I am guided by a person-centred, attachment informed, neurodiversity affirming approach to support you in discovering the transformative power of Art Psychotherapy.

Meet Stefanie! Sessions in English With a background in Fine Art (BA, Wilfrid Laurier ‘06) and D... Read More

Hello! Hello! I have been a professional working in mental health, addictions and crisis for 20 years. I went back to school as an older adult and finished my Masters in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier with a specialization in vulnerable populations during covid and continued on to study art therapy. I have wanted to study art therapy since I was inspired by a coworker (art therapist) many years ago. I am a late diagnosed neurodivergent adult who understands that words are not always enough and not the only way to express yourself. I absolutely loves the outdoors, animals and pizza!! Lets spend some time together exploring, laughing and art making!

Hello! Hello! I have been a professional working in mental health, addictions and crisis for 20 y... Read More

Erica Hall is a dynamic and creative student art therapist whose personal journey blends art, therapy, and personal growth. With a lifelong passion for art and over 15 years of personal therapy experience, Hall has developed a deep appreciation for how creativity and healing come together. This passion led her to pursue further education as a student art therapist, where she is refining her skills to support others through the transformative power of art.

In her diverse career, Hall has embraced various roles that highlight her versatility and ability. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Queens University and her MUA Certification from CMU in Toronto. As a makeup artist, she used her artistic flair to boost confidence and self-expression in her clients. And Hall’s work as a Community Life Facilitator showcased her ability to create inclusive, supportive environments, connecting with people from all walks of life and fostering a sense of belonging.

Known for her friendly demeanour, intelligence, and positive energy, Erica combines creativity with compassion in her approach. Hall’s personal experiences and ongoing education as an art therapy student enriches her ability to guide and inspire others, making her a warm and empathetic student therapist.

If you’re looking for a student art therapist who blends art and empathy to support your personal journey, Erica Hall offers a welcoming space where you can explore and express your feelings. Her approach ensures a meaningful and engaging therapeutic experience, helping you unlock your full potential and achieve genuine growth.

Erica Hall is a dynamic and creative student art therapist whose personal journey blends art, the... Read More

Sessions in English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Gujarati

Hi there! My name is Anandita, I’am a student art therapist at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CIIAT), currently pursuing a Master’s in Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy at Wilfrid Laurier University. I completed my Honors Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Toronto. I have always been drawn to making art, both as a child and throughout my university years. Art has been a powerful medium for gaining insight, understanding emotions, and expressing myself. While I could list many benefits of art-making, it is truly best experienced firsthand.

My approach to art therapy is about making the process inviting and enjoyable. I ensure a safe, compassionate space where you can dive into self-expression without fear of judgment. Whether you’re looking to tap into your creative side or find a unique path to healing, I am here to create, laugh, and transform together with you.

Sessions in English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Gujarati Hi there! My name is Anandita, I’am a studen... Read More

Sessions in English

Yuli is currently studying to become an art therapist at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy. She decided to take this career path because it has been her life mission to use creativity to help others.

She graduated from Algonquin College, Ottawa with a Bachelor of Interior Design. She has worked in Tokyo at an art installation firm, and learned how to create comfortable and joyful physical spaces for people. She also worked part time teaching English conversation to adults and art to children. As a teacher, she had the privilege of working with age groups ranging from 4 to 70 years old. This is where she found her strength for holding safe learning environments to help her students grow.

Growing up as a second generation Asian Canadian, Yuli experienced the cross-cultural challenges living in Canada, Taiwan, and Japan. Art has been a tool for her to navigate and understand how her environment makes her feel. It helped shape her identity and gave her a safe platform to express her true thoughts. This sparked her love for art therapy. Yuli looks forward to providing creative guidance to clients, making a welcoming safe space where they can explore, grow, and express themselves authentically.

Sessions in English Yuli is currently studying to become an art therapist at the Canadian Intern... Read More

CLINICAL DIRECTOR

MA, ATR, MFT, REAT, RCAT

Registered Art Therapist in Canada and the USA Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California

Michelle is a Registered Art Therapist, trained facilitator, and supervisor with twenty years of experience working directly with groups, families, and individuals. Michelle is the Clinical Director for the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Art Therapy Association.

Making art has always been her solace, passion and fascination from childhood onward. When her first career in architecture did not satisfy her creative and social needs, art therapy was a natural, perfect fit! Since then, she’s never looked back.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR MA, ATR, MFT, REAT, RCAT Registered Art Therapist in Canada and the USA Licens... Read More

Sessions in English

Sarah graduated from Dalhousie University with a degree in Neuroscience and a certificate in Disability Management. Sarah was ‘late’ to embrace art in her life - it wasn’t until she sought Art Therapy in her own healing journey that she recognized the importance of this work and wanted to share it with others. With no formal training in fine arts, Sarah will be the first to tell you that creativity is for everybody, no matter their experience and/or abilities. With a background in group home and respite work, Sarah has experience working with diverse populations, including neurodiverse folks and clients with intellectual disabilities. She embraces a person-centred approach and works to meet clients where they are in ways that are meaningful and effective for them.

Sessions in English Sarah graduated from Dalhousie University with a degree in Neuroscience and ... Read More

Sessions in English

Gabrielle Lanthier is a student art therapist in the Art Psychotherapy diploma program at CIIAT. She graduated from the Visual and Critical Studies program at the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto, where she currently resides. During her undergraduate program, she engaged in an array of art practices and mediums, and studied art making practices from around the world. Her engagement with art-making has played an important role in her own healing journey. She believes that healing happens in community, and her experience facilitating trauma-informed peer support group programs allowed her to witness the healing power of co-creating safe spaces with others. Gabrielle welcomes you to connect with your inner artist, and offers a compassionate, non-judgemental, and playful space for self-discovery.

Sessions in English Gabrielle Lanthier is a student art therapist in the Art Psychotherapy diplo... Read More

Sessions in English and Thai

Hi! I’m Gabi, a dedicated art therapist blending Eastern and Western practices to support and empower your healing journey. With dual Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and East Asian Cultures from the University of Southern California, I integrate modern science with ancient wisdom in my approach. I’m also a trauma-informed yoga instructor and laughter yoga teacher, certified as a grief educator by David Kessler, and trained in Daoist movement meditation using cacao plant medicine.

As a spoken-word poet, I use poetry to guide clients through life’s challenges and create art to express the non-verbal aspects of our inner world. I believe in the transformative power of art and words to access and explore our deepest selves. My background in clinical art therapy and the hero’s journey mythology informs my practice, allowing for deep, expressive exploration and a holistic approach to healing.

I’m committed to a humanistic, culturally sensitive practice, integrating Eastern medicine principles with Western psychological insights. My personal journey of self-healing, self-hope, and growth ensures a compassionate, empathetic connection with each client. Through art-making, poetry, breath work, and movement practices, I aim to provide resources and support to help you navigate your unique path to wellness. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, exploring the depths of your inner world, fostering lasting skills and resources while cultivating meaningful integration of your experiences. I am Thai/American and offer sessions in Thai and/or English

Sessions in English and Thai Hi! I’m Gabi, a dedicated art therapist blending Eastern and Wester... Read More

Sessions in English

McKayla Stewart is a diploma student at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy. Growing up in a family affected by mental illness inspired her interest in helping others who struggle with mental health. She has experience working with diverse individuals through homecare, tutoring, and as support staff in acute inpatient mental health and residential addictions treatment settings. After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Alberta, she was unsure of which career path to choose. When she discovered the field of Art Therapy, everything clicked. McKayla strongly believes in the healing power of creative expression, and has always found joy in a variety of artistic endeavours such as drawing, painting, embroidery, and mask-making. She aims for a gentle client-centered, collaborative approach, and always appreciates the opportunity to work with and learn from new people.

Sessions in English McKayla Stewart is a diploma student at the Canadian International Institute... Read More

Sessions in English

Kristen is an enthusiastic fine art professional who firmly believes in the healing qualities and applications of employing art media. She graduated from the Alberta College of Art and Design (now AUARTS) with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree as a painting major. Her personal creative practice engages fluid media as organic aesthetics that access emotional realms, promoting cognitive clarity. She does not shy away from any media, spontaneously exploring unconventional methods. Her inventor’s curiosity is founded on themes of letting go with the flow and healthy control, fascinated by the revealing of one’s idiosyncratic styles and tendencies.

Kristen is a Vancouver Island-based certified Usui Reiki master and artist with acknowledgment and gratitude to the First Nations Lekwungen Peoples of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nation, all of the fifty First Nations communities located within the Coast Salish, Nuu Chah Nulth, and Kwakiut-l regions. A nature lover, ocean-scape dweller, and tree admirer, she utilizes intuition and concepts of energy as a guide to enjoying conscious breathwork, yoga, innovative neuroscience, music making, reflective journalling, poetry, and spirituality. As a child, she intently dedicated her life to becoming a healing arts professional after enduring a rare life-altering neurological disorder that resulted in partial disability.

As an adult student art therapist, she wishes to gain experience with diverse populations, including but not limited to those affected by ableism, grief, loss, and illness, with a desire to boost wellbeing, existential resilience, and mental health in cultivating identity. Her clinical goal is to facilitate enriched and empowered creative experiences with a holistic person-centered approach based on mindfulness, gentle somatic sensory awareness, self-care, and mind-body-spirit connection.

Sessions in English Kristen is an enthusiastic fine art professional who firmly believes in the ... Read More

Sessions in English

Sara Flicht is a diploma student with the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy and creative arts facilitator. With an undergraduate degree in Theatre and Development and Psychology from Concordia University, Sara’s background in dramatic and visual art has always been a source of joy and connection. After years spent in various community arts programming in Toronto, Sara was brought to the field of art therapy. Through this, she has been learning to harness the power of creativity for therapeutic benefit.

Sara’s approach is process-based, flexible, and client-centred. From working with children to older adults in hospital settings to running a bi-weekly therapeutic art drop-in group, her aim is to encourage everyone’s potential for inner creative expression. She strives to create a space where individuals can feel safe and secure while engaging with their artistic voice to support a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Sessions in English Sara Flicht is a diploma student with the Canadian International Institute o... Read More

Sessions in English and Mandarin

Art Psychotherapy Student, CiiAT Master of Education Boxuan is presently pursuing an Art Psychotherapy Diploma at the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy (CiiAT). Leveraging a diverse academic background that shows his profound commitment to the field. He possesses a postgraduate diploma in applied psychology from China, a Master of Education from the University of Windsor, Canada, and an MSc major in Entertainment and Media Management from Marseille, France. With a multicultural and multilingual background, Boxuan offers therapy in both Mandarin and English, fostering an inclusive and accessible therapeutic space for individuals from various cultural backgrounds.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Boxuan is also working closely with individuals experiencing developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Windsor community. His dedication to helping people achieve a good and quality life is evident in his hands-on contribution within the community. This commitment underscores Boxuan’s belief in the transformative power of community engagement and inclusive practices. Passionate about cultivating impactful therapeutic connections, Boxuan specializes in working with individuals who share a similar cultural background. His dedication extends to those who resonate with this shared cultural identity, fostering a space for profound and meaningful therapeutic experiences.

Additionally, he aspires to provide affirming and empathetic therapy to the LGBTQ+ community, enhancing his cultural competence to address their unique challenges. Drawing on over five years of professional experience in campus settings and an MEd degree, Boxuan adeptly navigates developmental challenges for individuals in various life stages, employing personalized therapeutic approaches.

Sessions in English and Mandarin Art Psychotherapy Student, CiiAT Master of Education Boxuan is ... Read More

Sessions in English

Jenna is a student art therapist with CiiAT in the Art Psychotherapy Diploma Program. She is originally from Calgary, Alberta and made the move to Victoria two years ago and has never looked back. She graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from Alberta University of the Arts in Calgary, unsure of what to do with her degree. Her life was permeated with anxiety and depression, and besides her positive experiences with cognitive-behavioural therapy, art helped her heal by allowing her to put every thought and feeling into the art she was making. When she discovered art therapy was a real career path, she knew exactly what she wanted to do. After moving to Victoria, she took several courses in psychology at Camosun College to help her achieve her goal. Jenna hopes to foster creativity, mindfulness, and self-care in others and show them how inspiring and rewarding their journey in art therapy can be.

Sessions in English Jenna is a student art therapist with CiiAT in the Art Psychotherapy Diploma... Read More

With a background in Fine Art/Art History and English from The University of Toronto and a diploma in Interior decorating from Sheridan College, Liana has spent the last 10 years running a wedding Floral Design business. Art has always played a big role in her life and she recognizes the power it holds to elicit positive change. In searching for her own meaning and purpose, she has been led back to pursue a career that focus on the energy of inner creativity and connection.

With personal experience in postpartum depression and anxiety, Liana understands the difficult balance between work and family life. As the complexities of lived experiences and change impact our sense of self, Liana can help bring curiosity and compassion as we walk through different phases of life. Liana aims to use her knowledge and experiences to foster self-empowerment and self-expression as we follow the path of therapeutic healing.

With a background in Fine Art/Art History and English from The University of Toronto and a diplom... Read More