Otterbear Creative Studios
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What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy uses art modalities for self-expression and communication. Through the art making process we can benefit from therapeutic effects of the creative process. Art therapy enhances talk therapy by providing a non-verbal avenue for feelings, ideas and experiences to surface through imagery. Meaning making with our visual expressions can lead to increased self-awareness. Creating art within a safe space and therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to explore relationship with self and others leading to increased well-being.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy uses art modalities for self-expression and communication. Through the art making process we can benefit from therapeutic effects of the creative process. Art therapy enhances talk therapy by providing a non-verbal avenue for feelings, ideas and experiences to surface through imagery. Meaning making with our visual expressions can lead to increased self-awareness. Creating art within a safe space and therapeutic relationship provides an opportunity to explore relationship with self and others leading to increased well-being.
Who is Art Therapy For?
Everyone can benefit from art therapy, whether it be to work through specific issues, or to tap into one’s creative potential. Some of the issues that art therapy can be supportive for are: grief and loss, trauma, coping with stress, fear and anxiety, transition, relationship dynamics, low self-esteem, personal identity, chronic pain and disease, and addictions. Art therapy can be used to enhance a person's creative potential and explore growth, creative problem solving, and help during a time of transition.
Upcoming In-Person Groups
Port Alberni
Port Alberni
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Registration Closed
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Deadline for registration is April 22nd, 2026
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Parksville
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Registrations are open for May.
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Pam Garner - Certified
Art Therapist
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I am a graduate from Kutenai Art Therapy Institute and am situated in the beautiful Port Alberni Valley, home to the Nuu-Chah-Nulth First Nation.
I offer secure and confidential virtual art therapy sessions for adolescents, adults, family dyads, and groups. I also offer in-person retreats, workshops and self-compassion sessions for groups including in professional and work place settings. As an art therapist, I work with a trauma-responsive, relational approach informed by expressive art modalities, land-based healing and cultural teachings. |
What kind of support are you looking for?
HELP
Or if you are in Canada visit: www.crisisservicescanada.ca or call 1.833.456.4566 or text 45645
If you're in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, call 911.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call Talk Suicide Canada at: 1-833-456-4566. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For residents of Quebec, call 1-866-277-3553 or visit suicide.ca.
The following link can direct to mental health supports within Canada.
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.html
The worldwide crisis line: www.befrienders.org
Or if you are in Canada visit: www.crisisservicescanada.ca or call 1.833.456.4566 or text 45645
If you're in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, call 911.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call Talk Suicide Canada at: 1-833-456-4566. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For residents of Quebec, call 1-866-277-3553 or visit suicide.ca.
The following link can direct to mental health supports within Canada.
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.html
The worldwide crisis line: www.befrienders.org
