Art therapy can be especially supportive for children with autism, as it provides a safe and creative way to express themselves—through words and beyond. Through art, children can regulate emotions, build social and communication skills, and develop confidence.
Our deepest hope is for every child and teen to feel at home within themselves — proud of their individuality and free to shine in all the ways that make them who they are. We also strive to provide a judgment-free space where caregivers can receive the support they need, and to stand alongside them as they navigate the unique challenges of raising a neurodiverse child in a world that is not always kind or understanding.
At Art as Therapy, we continually reflect on our practice to ensure we are honoring each child’s autonomy and creativity. We meet children with acceptance, curiosity, understanding, and playfulness. By first building safety and trust in the relationship, we can then gently work toward therapeutic goals in ways that feel natural, empowering, and meaningful to the child.
We also deeply value the work of allied professionals and are always open to collaborating to best support the child and their family. For families currently enrolled in ABA therapy, art therapy can be a valuable complement.
If you are interested in art therapy for your child, in family art therapy, or in therapy for yourself (yes, adults benefit too!), please contact us at admin@artastherapy.ca or 519-307-9000.
Art therapy is covered under OAP funding and many extended health benefit plans.
Below you can read about the ways in which art therapy can support children and teens with autism.
Art Therapy & Autism
Supporting children through creativity, safety & connection.
At Art as Therapy, we believe that every child with autism holds their own unique way of seeing and expressing the world. Art therapy provides a gentle, creative path for connection, growth, and understanding — where communication can unfold beyond words.
What Art Therapy Offers
Art therapy offers a safe, sensory-rich space where children can express themselves freely and authentically. Through creative exploration, they learn that their ideas, feelings, and ways of being are valued and celebrated.
Through Art, Children Can:
Regulate emotions and manage stress
Build social and communication skills
Strengthen confidence and self-esteem
Improve focus, flexibility, and problem-solving
Experience joy in creative expression
Our Approach at Art as Therapy
We:
Honour each child’s autonomy, creativity, and individuality
Meet children with acceptance, curiosity, and playfulness
Build safety and trust first — the foundation for any meaningful growth
Value every child with autism for their unique strengths and perspectives
How Art Therapy Supports Growth
Once safety and trust are in place, therapeutic goals naturally emerge.
Children begin to explore emotions, try new things, and build skills — all through the rhythm and comfort of creativity. Art becomes a bridge between inner experience and the outside world.
Collaboration Matters
Art therapy complements other supports beautifully — including ABA, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy. We believe in working alongside families and allied professionals to nurture the whole child.
Art Therapy for Teens with Autism
For teens, art therapy provides an outlet for self-expression, identity exploration, and emotional release during a time of rapid change. It helps them process stress, anxiety, and social pressures while building confidence and self-awareness.
Art Therapy for adults with Autism
For adults, art therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect with creativity, and make sense of emotions that may be difficult to put into words. It supports healing from stress, trauma, and burnout, and fosters a renewed sense of balance and clarity.
Art Therapy for Parents of Children with Autism
Parenting a neurodiverse child can be both beautiful and demanding. Art therapy offers parents a supportive, judgment free space to process emotions, reduce stress, and reconnect with their own creativity. Through guided art making, parents can explore their experiences and feelings, find calm amidst uncertainty, and strengthen their capacity for empathy and patience. It’s also a chance to reflect, recharge, and nurture their own well-being—so they can continue to show up with presence and compassion for their child.
We Offer
Art therapy for children and teens
Family therapy
Individual sessions (for adults too!)
Dyad therapy (parent - child therapy)
Parent support
Collaboration with allied professionals along with school staff to develop holistic care plans
Each session is personalized to meet developmental, emotional, and sensory needs.
Get in Touch
We’d love to connect with you.
admin@artastherapy.ca
519-307-9000
We are a team of Registered Psychotherapists so our services are Covered under OAP and many extended health benefit plans.
