Frequently Asked Questions
What is art therapy?
Art Therapy is a mental health profession that combines the process of creative art expression with models of counselling and psychotherapy to enhance emotional, physical, and mental health. It provides the client with an opportunity to explore personal problems and potentials, resolve conflicts, and facilitate self-awareness and understanding, through the use of art materials.
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Sometimes words can be limiting in their definitions and expressing through art can expand those boundaries. It can transcend the spoken word and serve as a non-verbal means of expression. I aim to facilitate a non-verbal means for individuals and groups to connect with and express thoughts and emotions that are difficult to communicate.
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No art experience is necessary! Art therapy is about the process, not perfection.
What is my approach?
I take an anti-oppressive, person-centred and postmodern approach which means that you lead the session while I observe, listen, ask questions, reflect, and utilize other approaches as they are needed. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment for you to create, heal, and grow in.
Sometimes, I will provide an art directive and sometimes I will leave the session completely open for you to create whatever needs to be expressed (open studio).
My therapeutic approach is mainly informed by person-centred principles. If an environment has the correct conditions, I believe that people can identify problems, make their own goals, and make the effort to reach them through self-directed means. This is known as self-actualization. I aim to facilitate an environment where that change can take place. While talking can be a part of the art therapy process, I view the act of expressing simply through art to be a successful session.
What is my new client procedure?
We can connect over a free 15-minute consultation to explore if art therapy with me is the right fit for you. You will have a chance to ask questions about the process and we will go from there.
Rates, Cancellations, &Â Refunds
Your insurance provider may provide reimbursement for our sessions. Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover Registered Therapeutic Counsellors under your plan. Please reach out to me if the session rates are a significant barrier for you.
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Payment is required before your appointment begins. This can be done by e-transfer or credit card. A receipt will be provided.
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I have a 24 hour cancellation policy. Missed appointments and cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are charged the full session fee (with the exception of illness/emergency). Please reach out to me if you need to reschedule.
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Refunds for payments made in advance may be processed if the associated appointment is cancelled with at least 24 hours notice. Refunds of any other kind will not be issued.
Professional Designation
I am currently a professional art therapist with membership to the Canadian Art Therapy Association and a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada.
Your insurance provider may provide reimbursement for our sessions. Please reach out to your insurance provider to see if they cover Registered Therapeutic Counsellors.
Behind the Name
While I may not be Scandinavian, my name (Bjorn) translates to "Bear". I also believe in the nurturing qualities of a warm and inviting hug. In a figurative sense, my practice represents a comforting, supportive bear hug from me to you.
What is meant by the phrase "what is currently known as Canada"?
"We use this phrase to acknowledge that the land is currently divided in a particular way and under the control of the colonial government that has named it Canada. There are many Indigenous nations on this land that were here long before Canada existed and the continuance of the oppressive, colonial state of Canada is not inevitable."