What Exactly is Expressive Arts Therapy?
When I tell people that I utilize the expressive arts in my online therapy practice, I am often greeted with enthusiasm ... and some degree of confusion.
"That sounds amazing!" People will often respond, and then ... pause. "So, what exactly is that?"
I smile because they are genuinely curious and I am eager to share.
So here are some things to know about of expressive arts therapy (or as we call it in the biz, EXA):
EXA is "multi-modal", meaning it utilizes all art forms including drama, visual art, writing, movement and music for the purpose of expression, exploration and healing.
EXA is about process (aka the mess). It is not about creating a pretty picture, though pretty pictures do happen.
Yes, sometimes we throw paint in session and it feels good.
Yes, sometimes we make playlists and dance it out.
Yes, sometimes we have no idea what we're going to do, and "trust the process" to see where it leads us.
All of this can happen over video or in-person during individual sessions, workshops or groups.
EXA is strengths-based and collaborative. As an EXA therapist, I don't analyze or judge client's artistic expression - ever! I support clients in making meaning of both the creative process and, if appropriate, what was created.
Sometimes we talk and make art.
Expressive Arts Therapy in Support of the Midlife Transition
While I’ve used the expressive arts with so many clients of different ages and struggles, I find the arts especially helpful for women navigating the changes that midlife inevitably brings.
Often those changes are difficult to pin down with words and so using metaphor, shape, color, texture, sound, movement to explore the feelings and experiences we’re navigating can bring a richness to processing that words alone can not.
While one client may explore the woman she’s been and the woman she’s becoming through art and writing, another woman may explore grief and the weight of caregiving through movement and song. There are truly endless possibilities in integrating creativity into therapy without the pressure of producing “good art.”
Meanwhile, I also think it's important to note that EXA is not an ethereal approach to therapy, though it can feel that way because as adults we are so divorced from viewing creativity as a vital part of living. It can seem "so alternative" rather than straight up natural, and even practical.
After all, by incorporating the arts in therapy we often bypass defenses that hinder us, and are able to access suppressed feelings and inner wisdom that otherwise may not be accessed through talking.
Clients often report feeling relaxed or energized after sessions using the arts, as well as gaining new insights.
Read more if you are interested in learning about how EXA can be incorporated into therapy sessions!
Meanwhile, I hope you'll consider creating something this week. Anything. Just to see how it feels for you. I truly believe creativity is life force, and artistic expression, a birthright.
Let me know how you do!
Till Next Time,
Jessika
About Jessika Fruchter LMFT – Specialized Therapy for Midlife Women in Oakland
Jessika Fruchter, LMFT, (Lic. 97617) is based in Oakland, California. She offers specialized mental health care for women navigating perimenopause and all things midlife. She offers individual and group therapy support to women throughout the state of California. This work integrates feminist psychology, somatic approaches, narrative therapy, and psychospiritual practices to support meaningful and sustainable change.
👉 Learn more about working with me
👉 Book an initial consultation (for women in California)
👉 Download my free journal prompts for Midlife Inquiry
She also writes frequently about issues of midlife, spirituality, and mental health on her blog: Minding Midlife and Substack: We Were Made For This.
Frequently Asked Questions Expressive Arts Therapy for Midlife Women
What is expressive arts therapy?
Expressive arts therapy is an experiential approach to psychotherapy that incorporates creative practices such as writing, visual art, movement, imagery, and storytelling. It helps women explore emotions, gain insight, and connect with parts of themselves that may be difficult to access through conversation alone.
Do I need to be artistic or creative to benefit from expressive arts therapy?
Absolutely not! Expressive arts therapy is about the process of creating, rather than the finished product. You don't need any artistic experience or special skills. Curiosity and a willingness to experiment are all you need.
How can expressive arts therapy support women in midlife?
Midlife often brings significant changes in identity, relationships, physical health, and personal priorities. Expressive arts therapy offers opportunities to explore these transitions, process complex emotions, reconnect with intuition, and imagine new possibilities for the next chapter of life.
What does expressive arts therapy look like in a session?
Depending on your needs and interests, we might use journaling, collage, guided imagery, metaphor, or creative rituals to explore what you're experiencing. These practices are integrated into traditional talk therapy, and you always have a choice about how you participate.
Can expressive arts therapy help with perimenopause and menopause?
Yes! Expressive arts therapy can be particularly valuable for exploring the emotional, psychological, and identity shifts that accompany perimenopause and menopause. It provides a space to work with feelings such as anger, grief, uncertainty, and emerging empowerment while developing a deeper relationship with yourself.