Hi, I’m Emily, a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) in New York State and the founder of Art Therapy with Emily. I offer individual and group art therapy for adults in Rochester, NY, with a focus on creating a space that feels welcoming, affirming, and accessible, especially for LGBTQIA+ folks and neurodivergent adults.

If you’re here, you might be looking for a fresh start, support through a hard season, or a place to explore what you’re carrying without needing to have the “right words.” Art therapy can be a powerful way to meet yourself with more honesty and care, at your own pace.

What art therapy is (and what it isn’t)

Art therapy is a mental health approach that uses the creative process (drawing, painting, collage, journaling, and other art-based tools) to support emotional wellbeing. You don’t need to be “good at art” to benefit. This isn’t an art class, and there’s no pressure to perform. The art is simply one way to:

• express what feels hard to say out loud

• notice patterns, emotions, and needs more clearly

• explore identity and self-worth with compassion

• build coping tools and self-trust over time

Sometimes we use art as the main language in session; other times it’s one part of a broader conversation. We’ll collaborate to find what feels supportive for you.

Who I work with

In my practice, I support adults navigating a range of experiences, including:

• Body image and body relationship (including body grief, self-criticism, and rebuilding trust with your body)

• Identity exploration (gender, sexuality, life transitions, and “who am I now?” moments)

• Relationship stress (boundaries, communication, attachment patterns, and healing from past dynamics)

• Grief work (loss, change, and the many forms grief can take, not always tied to death)

If you’re not sure whether what you’re going through “counts” as something to seek therapy for, you’re not alone. You don’t have to wait until things are unbearable to get support.

What sessions are like

Most sessions are 50 minutes. We’ll move at a pace that feels manageable, and you’ll always have choices. Some sessions may include a gentle art prompt; others may focus more on talking, grounding, or reflecting on what’s coming up in your life.

For in-person sessions, I provide art supplies. For virtual sessions, I’ll help you figure out simple, accessible materials you can use at home, nothing fancy required.

My approach

My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded. I believe therapy works best when you feel:

• respected and not judged

• supported, but not pushed faster than you’re ready

• invited into curiosity rather than “fixing”

• empowered to make choices about your own healing

Art therapy can help you slow down, listen inward, and build a more compassionate relationship with yourself—especially when your mind feels loud or stuck.

Group offerings

In addition to individual therapy, I offer group experiences such as Rainbow Palette, an LGBTQ+ Creative Processing Group restarting Spring 2026. Groups can be a meaningful way to feel less alone, practice self-expression, and connect in a supportive space.

Getting started (what to expect)

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. Typically, it looks like:

1. Initial contact (reach out by email or phone)

2. Consultation (brief conversation to see if we’re a good fit)

3. Intake session (background, goals, questions, and pacing)

4. Ongoing sessions (individual or group, based on your needs)

If you’re ready, you can also book through the free consultation link.

Fees & payment

My practice is private pay. Current rates are:

• Individual sessions: $150

• Group sessions: $50

I also accept Cigna, and I can support clients who use Mentaya for out-of-network benefits.

Cancellation policy: I ask for 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. Late cancellations are charged the full session fee.

Location & contact

In-person sessions:
21 Prince Street
Rochester, NY

Email: hello@arttherapywithemily.com
Phone: (585) 420-7768
Instagram: @arttherapistemily

A note about safety

If you are in crisis or need immediate support, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room. This practice is not an emergency service.

Ready to reach out?

If you’re curious about working together, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me by email or phone, and we’ll take the next step from there—no pressure, just support.