Important Differences to note:

Who is an Art Therapist?

An art therapist is a master’s level clinician with specialized training, qualifications, and supervision which prepares them to utilize art as part of the therapeutic process. They possess a skill level and understanding of art and how it can be utilized kinesthetically, perceptually, and symbolically to assist in the therapeutic process. Art Therapists as with other therapists are guided by a code of ethical standards and scope of practice.

What is Kristin Simpson’s training?

I received my Master’s Degree in Art Therapy from The George Washington University, in Washington, DC. I am a fully Licensed Professional Counselor within the state of Texas. I am working toward my Registration as an Art Therapist.

How is this done?

In order to call myself an art therapist in Texas, I must be a Licensed Professional Counselor, which I am. (License # 77303) In addition to my qualified training in art therapy, I must also complete the requirements of the Art Therapy Credentials Board to become a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist. In order to do this, I am currently completing my supervised hours to complete the application process. While in this process, I am supervised by Heidi Tournoux-Hanshaw, LPC-AT-S, ATR-BS, ATCS. Heidi can be reached at hthanshaw@gmail.com.

How is Art used in my Practice?

Please be aware of what is being offered to you.

It is important to understand the difference between using art as a part of general wellness and using art as a integrative mental health intervention that engages the client in a therapeutic way that is different from traditional talk therapy alone.

Therapeutic Use of Art:

Within the scope of a therapy session, art is used as a part of the therapeutic process to facilitate the therapeutic goals of clients. In this way, the use of art is intentional and introduced in session with specific goals according to psychological theory and what is happening within the therapeutic relationship.

This is different from participating in a Wellness Activity or Art Class.

Art in and of itself can be pleasing and can generate a sense of calm or an opportunity to be self reflective. However, this IS NOT art therapy. Art used in this way is part of a general practice of wellbeing and recreation. This includes independent art journaling, coloring books or taking general wellness classes or art classes.

Within my Practice, I offer two types of services.

Community Wellness Classes:

These are services offered to the community at large to increase opportunities for art making in a fun and reflective way. They are meant to introduce my practice to the community. These Are NOT therapeutic groups or classes. They will be identified as a community class. Clients may sign up for these classes directly. Those participating in community classes should be aware that while these groups are not considered therapy, they may stir some emotional reaction. If this happens, please reach out to me. We can discuss whether participating in individual therapy might be beneficial for you.

Therapeutic Groups:

These groups are therapeutic. Participants will need to complete therapy intake paperwork and must be screened for appropriateness for these groups. Participants are typically already working in individual therapy and are utilizing these services to compliment their current work. Please reach out to me if you are interested in participating in a therapeutic group.