About Erin Dolan, MS, ATR-BC®, LPCC
I believe in the power of the art making process as an effective tool in promoting one’s mental health. Art Therapy with me looks like active art-making, the creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. Art therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change.
Art Therapy can sometimes be hard to understand, yet no technical skill is required to do Art Therapy. Through an integrative and holistic approach, the work I do engages the body, mind, and spirit in ways other than “traditional talk therapy.” Visual and symbolic expression gives voice to experience and Client’s find that they feel more empowered through this process.
When I am not in the art room, I use a holistic, skill-based approach drawing from CBT and Acceptance and Commitment Theory. I meet the Client where they are and try to shape therapy around their needs.
I have practiced as a Counselor and Art Therapist for over 10 years. Over the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of settings, with a wide range of clients with diverse backgrounds. I have interests in but not limited to, Anxiety, Grief Management, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Women’s Issues, Depression, Stress Management, Body-Image and Eating Disorders. My work draws on training in Behavior Modification, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Art Therapy, Play Therapy, CBT, and Mindfulness.