Asheville Art Therapy and Counseling

We believe in providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to explore the healing power of expressive art therapies. We are committed to creating a nurturing environment where clients can freely express themselves through art, play, movement, and more. If you're seeking support for healing, personal growth, or self-discovery, we are here to walk alongside you on your journey towards overall well-being.

Serving clients in person in Asheville, NC and virtually across North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina

Our Approaches

  • Art Therapy and Creative Modalities

  • Play Therapy

  • EMDR

  • Talk Therapy

Our practice aims to provide a comprehensive and specialized approach to meet the unique and diverse needs of our clients. Our therapists have expertise in various specialties such as depression, anxiety, trauma, childhood development, and relationship issues. We offer tailored evidence-based therapies to ensure the combination of effective treatment outcomes through an empathetic lens. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, our practice provides a holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and soul, that promotes well-being and personal growth.

Meet the Team

  • As an art therapist and mental health counselor, my style of work is to focus on strengths, compassion, and coping skills. While I am trained in a diversity of methodologies including EMDR, my primary focus is to individualize my approach for each client. I have a specialty in trauma-informed practice, and I have worked with a wide range of populations, including at-risk adolescents, children, families, adults, trauma survivors, and active-duty military. I have also worked in a diversity of cultures, including East, South, and West Africa, India, Eastern Europe, and Appalachia.

    I see my role as a supportive ally and advocate. As an art therapist, I believe that artistic expression bypasses the limitations of language and opens the door to self-discovery. I understand that not all people are comfortable with art, so I also use talk therapy methodologies, but I do always have art materials by my side.

    Whether it is sand tray, drawing, or painting, I want to support clients in feeling free to express themselves in different modalities. A therapist's role is to be a safe place non-judgmental place for their client. I encourage honesty and collaboration with my clients.

  • Supporting children in connecting back to themselves through play therapy is my role as a play therapist and mental health counselor working alongside children and families. Hello and Welcome! My name is Debra and my professional background is in education, community programs, and counseling. I hold a Clinical Mental Health Counselor License at an Associate level in North Carolina. I worked in public education for 12 years including serving as a school counselor. Currently, I primarily work with children and families utilizing play therapy and creative expressive arts to support children on their journey of growth and healing.

    I have experience addressing a variety of concerns children may experience, including grief/loss and separation, anxiety, self-esteem, behavior, anger, relationship concerns, and developmental concerns. My style of counseling is that I aim to create a trusting and safe space for children to heal from the inside out and connect with their authentic self.

    With the understanding that each child is unique, I utilize the therapeutic powers of play to help children feel capable and know they matter. If you would like to explore whether I may be a good fit for your child, please reach out for a free 15 minute consultation.

  • I am a compassionate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with seven years of experience in the mental health field in Asheville, NC. My therapeutic approach is marked by warmth, laughter, and a sincere dedication to fostering joy in my sessions. Central to my practice is expressive arts therapy, a transformative method that harnesses creativity as a conduit to healing. Recognizing that traditional talk therapy may not resonate with everyone, I encourage my clients to explore various art forms to delve into deeper layers of their narratives.

    In our sessions, laughter, joy, and playfulness are not only welcomed but encouraged. Expressive arts therapy lies at the heart of my approach because it recognizes that traditional talk therapy may not resonate with everyone. By engaging in various art forms, you can bypass the limitations of language and tap into deeper layers of your story.

    If you're ready to embrace your neurodivergence, unleash your creativity, and reclaim your inner power, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, let's create a life filled with authenticity, connection, and joy.

Providing you with a safe space for healing, creativity, and curiosity

 

In-person and remote options

Our office is conveniently located 12 minutes from downtown Asheville and close to West Asheville. Can’t make it into the office? No worries – we’ve got you covered with teletherapy.

Schedule with us today