Art Therapy

“Art is a wound turned into light.” - Georges Braque

Art and creative expression nourish our sensory, cognitive, emotional, and motor functioning, which are the driving forces behind all other learning. Using the creative process as an outlet and an access point for reaching new perspectives of self, relationships, and the world around us can have a profound impact on how we experience life.

The positive effects of art therapy and process art are limitless but some of the practical outcomes consist of: stress relief, an emotional release, the learning of new skills, fresh perspectives, building confidence, developing a body of work, exploring the self fully and dynamically, and getting clear on our priorities and values. Art used in this way is a collaborative and custom process between artist/client, artwork, and therapist.

Contact me with questions about art therapy.

Counseling Individuals

Through counseling or “talk therapy”, I help adults find better ways of operating in interpersonal relationships, feel confident, improve communication, reduce stress and provide support.

Would you like to make lasting change, whether that's building confidence, gaining insight, improving relationships, feeling happier and more at peace, or just being able to adapt more easily to life's transitions? Or maybe you're not exactly sure why you feel the way you do but you know you want to feel different.

I work with clients managing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, grief, behavioral and circumstantial struggles. Together, we clarify goals and implement tools toward your desired change.

It takes courage to ask for help and we all need it at some point. None of us are immune to the human experience and all the detours. Having an empathic, neutral party to work through challenges can be helpful in living happier and more fulfilling lives. I create a relaxed, compassionate yet transformative space for healing and growth.

  • Optional and per client request we can utilize art therapy or surf therapy in addition to general counseling or in place of.

Surf Therapy

Why “Surf Therapy”?

The natural environment is one of our most important teachers. By connecting with the ocean regularly, you can learn to surf, understand the ocean and its many moods, and gain tools to improve the relationship with yourself and with others.

General outcomes include: learning to adapt, build physical & mental strength, balance, endurance, operating in an uncontrollable environment, decrease stress, increase focus, mindfulness, and resilience.

Surf Therapy vs. Surf Lesson?

In a surf lesson you learn to surf. In a surf therapy session you learn to surf and integrate reflection, insight, ocean awareness and education with regard to your personal experience in the ocean and in life. There are so many elements at play while surfing. The waves provide more condensed and immediate opportunities for learning.

Location: Currently (as of June 2023) Newport Beach.

For more information on surf therapy or private surf lessons contact me at 949.424.3060 or sydneyehensler@gmail.com.