Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to express what’s going on inside? Sometimes what we carry can feel too big, too tangled, or too quiet for words alone. Art therapy offers another way—using creativity, movement, and images to explore feelings and experiences in a way that doesn’t rely words alone.
As an art therapist with over a decade of experience in youth work and a deep commitment to neurodiversity-affirming care, I welcome people of all ages into a therapeutic space where there is no pressure to perform or create in a certain way. Inspired by Internal Family Systems (IFS), it is my hope to invite curiosity and kindness, through creative expression, to however you arrive each day.
During our sessions together we may use art materials, play, or storytelling as gentle ways of getting to know and offering care to what’s happening inside. Following what feels most supportive in the moment – some days may be more hands-on and sensory-based while others will be quieter or more reflective. There is no art experience needed — just a willingness to show up and explore together!
If you have questions or would like to learn more, you’re welcome to email me at jilliandevries5@gmail.com or to book a free 15-30 minute discovery call where you can share your hopes for therapy, and see whether this feels like a good fit. I look forward to hearing from you and supporting you in your journey.
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
– Masters-level Art Psychotherapy Diploma
– CATA professional member #70826438
– IFS Informed Therapist
– OATA IFS Workshop: Enhancing Internal Family Systems Through Art
– Non-violent crisis intervention certificate with SIVA (Supporting Individuals through Valued Attachments)
– Bachelor of Arts in Counselling and Human Services
Therapies In Practice
Major Areas of Practice
General Areas of Support
Specializations in Practice
Trauma
Career / Vocation / Higher Education
Marriage / Partnership / Family
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a gentle, creative way of exploring thoughts, feelings, and experiences through making art. It isn’t about being “good” at art—rather, it’s about using materials like paint, collage, or drawing as a way to express what can sometimes be hard to put into words. With the support of a trained therapist, the creative process can help people build insight, regulate emotions, and reconnect with their strengths, all within a safe and compassionate space.
What is Internal Family Systems Therapy?
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, non-pathologizing approach to therapy that understands each person as having many “parts” within them—like protective parts, wounded parts, and a core Self that is calm, wise, and caring. Rather than trying to get rid of difficult thoughts or feelings, IFS helps people gently get to know and build relationships with these parts, understanding their roles and the ways they’ve tried to help. Through this process, people can heal inner wounds, reduce inner conflict, and feel more grounded, connected, and whole.
Can you integrate Art Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy?
Yes! Integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) with art therapy creates a gentle, creative way to connect with the different “parts” within us. Through image-making—such as drawing, painting, or collage—people can give shape, colour, and voice to their inner experiences, making it easier to notice and understand protective or vulnerable parts without feeling overwhelmed. Guided by the compassionate, curious stance of IFS, the art process becomes a safe bridge to deepen self-awareness, foster inner dialogue, and support healing—allowing the Self to lead with clarity, care, and connection.
What does Neurodivergent-Affirming mean?
Being neurodivergent-affirming means recognizing and respecting neurological differences—such as ADHD, autism, and other ways of thinking and experiencing the world—as natural and valid variations of human diversity, rather than problems to be fixed. It involves creating spaces that are flexible, sensory-aware, and responsive to individual needs, while centering each person’s autonomy, strengths, and ways of communicating. In practice, it means working with, rather than against, someone’s nervous system—honouring their pace, preferences, and lived experience with curiosity, dignity, and care.
Open Now~09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Monday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Tuesday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Wednesday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Thursday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Friday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Saturday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
