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Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two important medical conditions that warrant significant public awareness. With the right treatment and social support, individuals often experience notable improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life. In this blog, we will concentrate on pediatric mental health and child development. We’ll begin by exploring the key concepts of each condition, their connection, the various therapeutic approaches, and conclude with the positive outcomes associated with incorporating art therapy as a therapeutic approach, specifically somatic art therapy.

What is a Stress Response and What is the Relationship Between Stress and PTSD?

A stress response happens when encountering trauma. The nervous system gets triggered and releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. This reaction is a natural mechanism that aids us in responding to danger yet too much of it may lead to maladaptive responses.

Stress needs to be in moderation (the relationship between stress and performance will be explained shortly); the following is the inverted U-shaped model, known as the Yerkes-Dodson Law, created by Robert Yerkes and John Dodson. This model illustrates the relationship between arousal (or stress) and performance, suggesting that there is an optimal level of arousal for peak performance, while both low and high levels can be detrimental.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event. While such experiences can trigger a natural stress response that helps us cope with danger, this response can become overwhelming if the stress is severe and prolonged.

The encouraging news is that not everyone who faces trauma will develop PTSD. Various factors influence this outcome, including the severity and duration of the trauma, individual differences, the presence of support systems, coping strategies, and neurobiological factors.

 Are Children Generally More Adaptive or Susceptible to Stressors?

Before we address the question, it’s important to understand the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This adaptability is crucial, as it allows the brain to adjust to new conditions, learn new information, and recover from injuries.

According to Dr Victor Carrión, an expert in pediatric mental health,  children in particular exhibit heightened neuroplasticity, making them more susceptible to trauma and at greater risk for developing PTSD. However, this same feature also enhances their ability to recover when given the right support. Therefore, the answer isn’t simply one or the other; rather, it’s essential to identify the issue promptly and implement appropriate interventions.

What is the Relationship Between PTSD and ADHD in Pediatric Psychiatry?

We should first recognize that PTSD and ADHD can coexist within the same individual. In families where multiple members exhibit symptoms, it can be particularly challenging to identify PTSD, as those symptoms may become normalized. In pediatric psychiatry, there is a recognized relationship between PTSD and ADHD. Trauma, particularly in childhood, can manifest in symptoms similar to ADHD, such as difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. This overlap can make accurate diagnosis challenging.

Additionally, a portion of ADHD diagnoses may actually stem from PTSD. This highlights the need for increased attention in pediatric mental health, particularly regarding accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

At our center for trauma therapy in Montreal, we explore these complexities to provide individualized care. Children who have experienced trauma may benefit from ADHD therapy in Montreal, where a comprehensive approach addresses both the trauma and attentional difficulties.

Art therapy, particularly affordable art therapy for children, can be a valuable tool in helping young clients express emotions tied to trauma and ADHD symptoms. Therapists in Montreal often use art therapy to create a safe space for children to explore their feelings and experiences. By addressing both PTSD and ADHD, therapeutic interventions can promote better mental health outcomes and help children develop effective coping strategies for their unique challenges.

What Are Some Common Treatment Approaches of ADHD and PTSD?

Some  literature from Dr. Victor Carrión – who has expertise in pediatric PTSD and who serves in the psychiatry and behavioral sciences department in Standard University – suggested that the first-line treatment plans for ADHD and PTSD are stimulant treatment and psychosocial intervention respectively.

Stimulant treatment for ADHD involves medications that increase levels of certain neurotransmitters, primarily dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. These medications can help improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. Typically acting as the first-line treatment due to their effectiveness, they are often prescribed alongside behavioral therapies for a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD.

Psychosocial treatment for PTSD focuses on therapeutic interventions that address emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of the disorder. Common approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies, and exposure therapy, which gradually exposes patients to trauma-related stimuli to reduce anxiety. Other techniques, such as art therapy and mindfulness practices, can also be beneficial. These treatments aim to improve emotional regulation, rebuild trust, and enhance social support, ultimately helping individuals regain a sense of control and improve their overall quality of life.

What is A “Cue” in Psychology and What is Cue Therapy?

According to what has been addressed in Huberman’s episode on “How to Heal From Posttraumatic Stress Disorder”, a “cue” is a fundamental concept in psychology and therapeutic approaches. It refers to a signal or stimulus that triggers a specific response or behavior, which can be external—such as environmental factors or social signals—or internal, like thoughts or feelings. Cues are often mutual, yet their interpretation is highly subjective and context-dependent. For example, children who have experienced trauma may interpret variations in voice tone as cues, which can trigger physical sensations and lead to unwanted or inappropriate behaviors.

Recognizing cues is crucial in cue therapy for PTSD. In this approach, children are educated about cues and classical conditioning, which involves the pairing of triggers and behaviors, as well as the effects of their condition and treatment. Unlike many other therapeutic modalities, cue therapy does not require parental involvement. Children can often engage more effectively without their parents present, which helps facilitate the therapy sessions.

Cue therapy also introduces the concept of a “toolbox,” consisting of various strategies and techniques to help children recognize, understand, and manage their cues. These may include breathing exercises and behavioral techniques. The goal of these exercises is to help children cultivate positive thinking when they are emotionally stable and to learn how to identify their thought patterns. Over time, they can decide which tools to utilize in response to specific triggers.

What is Mindfulness and How Does Art Therapy Serve as a Mindful Approach?

Mindfulness is the art of being fully present and engaged in the moment, free from judgment. It is a state of mind. Art therapy adopts mindfulness in the way that clients are encouraged to express themselves in a supportive environment, delivering their inner world and connecting with the therapists in a creative way whilst feeling deeply the movement of the hands and while touching the art materials.

Four points that describe the therapeutic process:

Fostering Presence: Creating art requires concentration, helping individuals immerse

themselves in the here and now

Encouraging Non-Judgment: The focus is on the process of creation rather than the final product, allowing for self-acceptance and reducing self-criticism.

Enhancing Emotional Awareness: Engaging with art can bring underlying emotions to the surface, promoting awareness and understanding of one’s feelings.

Promoting Relaxation: The act of creating can be calming, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

 What is Somatic Art Therapy?

Somatic means body-based. Somatic art therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of art therapy with somatic practices to support emotional healing and trauma recovery. This method focuses on the connection between the mind, body, and emotions. It helps individuals express and process difficult experiences through both creative expression such as drawing, painting, or sculpting and an awareness of their physical sensations.

Somatic art therapists in Montreal, encourage clients to explore their internal experiences using art as a way to access and express emotions that may be stored in the body. Trauma and stress can manifest physically, so this approach provides a safe, non-verbal way for clients to release tension, explore their feelings, and develop a greater sense of bodily awareness. Techniques may include mindful art-making, focusing on breath, movement, addressing both the body and the mind, somatic art therapy can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of their experiences and promote holistic healing.

If you would like to have specialized mental health support for your child or yourself, contact us here.

By phone at 514-999-3414 or email us at info@montrealarttherapy.com

We look forward to accompanying you on the healing journey!

Written by Linxuan (Skyler) Li

Edited by Reyhane Namdari

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References:

Carrion, V. G., Weems, C. F., Eliez, S., Patwardhan, A., Brown, W., Ray, R. D., & Reiss, A. L. (2001). Attenuation of frontal asymmetry in pediatric posttraumatic stress disorder. Biological Psychiatry, 50(12), 943–951. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0006-3223(01)01218-5

Carrion, V. G., Weems, C. F., & Reiss, A. L. (2007). Stress predicts brain changes in children: a pilot longitudinal study on youth stress, posttraumatic stress disorder, and the hippocampus. Pediatrics, 119(3), 509-516.

Huberman, A. (2024, September 23). Dr. Victor Carrión: How to heal from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Huberman Lab. https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/dr-victor-carrion-how-to-heal-from-post-traumatic-stress-disorder

Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are more common than many people realize. Research by Delphine Collin-Vézina, a professor at the School of Social Work, and data from Stats Canada reveal that nearly one in three children in Canada has experienced some form of ACE, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. These experiences, if left untreated, can have lasting effects on mental health in children, impacting their overall development. 

Understanding the effects of childhood trauma is essential for child trauma recovery. While the statistics highlight the prevalence of this issue, they also emphasize the critical role of children’s mental health support and how parents can help their children heal from these experiences. 

This blog will explore the impact of childhood trauma, the importance of trauma-informed therapy, and how to support healing childhood trauma effectively.

What Is Childhood Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences?

Childhood trauma refers to distressing events that disrupt a child’s sense of safety and stability. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, and exposure to domestic violence or substance abuse within the home. These events can manifest as various child trauma symptoms, affecting a child’s mental and physical well-being. 

Understanding childhood trauma impacts and ACEs is the first step toward recognizing the need for mental health therapy for children. By knowing what childhood trauma entails, parents can be better equipped to seek appropriate mental health resources for parents and children.

 What Are the Mental Health Impacts of Childhood Trauma on Children?

The impact of childhood trauma on mental health can be profound. Children who experience trauma are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These child trauma symptoms can interfere with their daily lives, affecting relationships, school performance, and self-esteem. 

Without children’s mental health support, trauma can lead to difficulties in regulating emotions and building trust. Early mental health therapy and art therapy for children, especially through trauma-informed therapy, can provide the support needed for child trauma recovery and help children develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What Are the Physical Effects of Childhood Trauma on Children?

The physical effects of childhood trauma are as significant as the mental impacts. Chronic stress from traumatic experiences can disrupt a child's developing brain and body, leading to problems such as headaches, stomach aches, sleep disturbances, and weakened immunity. Over time, these effects can increase the risk of long-term health issues like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. Recognizing the physical symptoms and seeking child mental health treatment early can mitigate these risks and support healing childhood trauma.

 What Is the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Attachment Styles in Children?

Childhood trauma impacts attachment styles, influencing how children form relationships with caregivers and peers. Traumatized children may develop insecure attachment patterns, such as anxious, avoidant, or disorganized attachment. These attachment styles and trauma can affect social skills, self-esteem, and the ability to trust others. 

Understanding how trauma affects attachment can help parents support their child's mental health recovery by creating a safe, nurturing environment that promotes secure relationships. This parental role in trauma recovery is crucial for children to rebuild trust and form healthy attachments.

What If Childhood Trauma Remains Untreated?

The effects of untreated childhood trauma can be long-lasting and extend into adulthood. Children who do not receive proper mental health therapy may develop chronic mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. These individuals may also struggle with interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, and self-esteem. 

The effects of untreated childhood trauma underscore the importance of early intervention such as art therapy and access to mental health resources for parents and children. Addressing trauma promptly can prevent a cycle of distress and set the foundation for a healthier future.

Why Is It Important for Children to Have Trauma-Informed Therapy at a Young Age?

Trauma-informed art therapy is vital for child trauma recovery, especially when started at a young age. This type of art therapy provides a safe environment where children can explore and process their experiences with support. By addressing trauma early, children learn healthy coping mechanisms, emotional regulation, and a more positive self-image. Trauma-informed art therapists in Montreal also help prevent the development of negative behaviors and mental health issues. Incorporating mental health in children's care plans is key to healing childhood trauma and supporting their overall development.

 What Is the Role of Parents in Children’s Recovery from Trauma?

The parental role in trauma recovery is central to a child’s healing process. Parents provide the stability, emotional support, and understanding that children need to feel safe. Being attentive, validating their child’s feelings, and modeling healthy coping strategies create an environment conducive to recovery. 

By seeking children’s mental health support, such as art therapy and counselling, parents can actively participate in their child’s recovery journey. Educating themselves, by contacting a trauma-informed art therapist in Montreal, about childhood trauma impacts enables parents to be more empathetic and effective in fostering their child's mental health recovery.

What Is the Impact of Untreated Childhood Trauma on Adults and Their Relationships?

Untreated childhood trauma can lead to long-term challenges in adulthood, affecting mental health and relationships. Adults who carry unresolved trauma often struggle with trust, intimacy, and emotional regulation. These difficulties can result in unhealthy attachment styles, conflict in personal relationships, and susceptibility to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. 

The far-reaching effects of untreated childhood trauma highlight the need for early interventions such as art therapy for children to break the cycle and support a healthier transition into adulthood.

How Can Art Therapy Help Children Heal from Trauma?

Art therapy for children is an effective tool for healing childhood trauma. This creative approach provides a non-verbal outlet for children to express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. Through drawing, painting, or sculpting, children can explore emotions, process difficult memories, and develop a sense of control over their story. 

Art therapy also helps build self-esteem, improve emotional regulation, and foster a sense of accomplishment. By engaging in art therapy, children can find relief from trauma and gain the skills needed to navigate their emotions healthily.

Moreover, family art therapy in Montreal helps children find the support and protection of their parent(s) in the course of therapy, retell their story in a safe space and try to make sense of the events, and rebuild their trust in their caregivers.

By incorporating these strategies and seeking the right support, parents can significantly impact their child's recovery from trauma and overall well-being.

Our art therapists in Montreal are trained in helping children heal from their trauma and equip parents with the right skills to be able to be the support for their children through this journey.

Call us now at 514-999-3414 or email us at info@montrealarttherapy.com

“It feels like a heavy weight pressing down on your chest, making each day a struggle to find light. Even the simplest tasks can become monumental challenges, and the relentless inner turmoil drains your energy and hope. It’s a constant battle with a voice that seems to amplify every doubt and fear. ” Says a patient diagnosed with major depression.

Depression, also known as major depression or clinical depression, is a serious mood disorder that profoundly affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities.

The 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) by Statistics Canada revealed that 5.4% of Canadians aged 15 and up experienced symptoms that fit the criteria for a mood disorder over the past year. Among them, 4.7% were dealing with major depression. People struggling with depression often feel misunderstood by those around them. Their condition may be downplayed, exaggerated, or not fully appreciated, leading to the perception that even simple requests require an enormous effort, which fosters guilt and a sense of inadequacy.

This blog explores two distinct yet common therapeutic approaches—Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Art Therapy—and their effectiveness in alleviating depressive symptoms.

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What Is the Difference Between  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Art Therapy in Managing Depression?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective for addressing depression due to its focus on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviors. For example, in a typical CBT session, a client might discuss a recent situation where they felt overwhelmed, such as a stressful work meeting. The therapist helps the client recognize negative thoughts about their performance, such as “I’m terrible at this job” or “I always mess up.”

Together, they challenge these distorted thoughts by examining evidence and considering alternative, more balanced perspectives, like “I made some mistakes, but I handled the meeting well overall.” The session may also include developing a plan for managing similar situations in the future, setting realistic goals, and engaging in activities that boost mood and motivation. This evidence-based approach not only improves mood but also equips individuals with practical skills to manage stress and prevent relapse.

Art therapy (AT) has garnered significant attention and demonstrated equally positive outcomes through various mechanisms. Research highlights eight therapeutic factors that contribute to its efficacy in treating depression: self-exploration, self-expression, communication, understanding and explanation, symbolic integration, creativity, and sensory stimulation. Given that individuals with depression often struggle with negative self-talk, art therapy provides a unique avenue for them to engage with their inner thoughts and emotions.

By utilizing colors, symbols, and physical movement, along with verbalizing their experiences at the session’s end, clients can achieve a profound connection with their feelings and their therapist, fostering deeper self-awareness and emotional healing.

It is also known that individuals who are struggling with depressive mood and negative thoughts, often find it difficult to articulate their emotions and thoughts verbally. Art therapy provides an outlet, where they can first attempt to express their emotions and thoughts creatively. Then, following a conversation about their creation, initiate a conversation that is going to be healing and help them process the emotions.

What to Expect in an Art Therapy Session for Individuals with Depression?

Literature identifies two common approaches to art therapy: direct and indirect. In the direct approach, clients are guided to paint themselves in various roles, fostering awareness of their personal connection to the exercise and potentially influencing the session’s content consciously.

Conversely, the indirect approach employs more playful and less transparent activities, such as creating color inkblots, and annotated scribbles. In this method, clients express their inner life without explicitly discussing current issues, allowing their creative output to reveal underlying emotional states.

Selecting the direct or indirect approach to art therapy is decided upon the completion of the clinical assessment that is done by the art therapist. An art therapist is trained to develop direct or indirect art therapy interventions based on your therapeutic needs and goals.

Here are some example images of the mentioned art therapy activities:

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Color Inkblot                                                                          Scribble Drawing

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Here are some key takeaways that you may find useful:

How Do I Know If I Have Depression?

If you’re questioning whether you might have depression, consider these common symptoms:

Persistent feelings of sadness or a low mood

Overwhelming guilt, worthlessness, or a sense of hopelessness

Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

Significant changes in weight or appetite

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

Persistent fatigue or a lack of energy despite not engaging in strenuous activities

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Thoughts of death or suicide

How is Depression Different from Sadness?

Sadness and depression might seem similar, but they are worlds apart. Sadness is a natural, fleeting response to life’s ups and downs, like a rough day or a personal setback. It usually passes as things get better and doesn’t stop you from enjoying life. Depression, on the other hand, is a persistent, all-encompassing condition that lingers for weeks or even months, often without a clear reason. It can deeply impact your daily life, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming and draining your ability to find joy. While sadness is a normal part of life, depression is a serious mental health issue that needs professional help to navigate.

When Do I Need to See a Therapist for My Depression?

If you’ve been experiencing the symptoms listed above  most days for more than 3-4 weeks, it’s important to consult with a doctor or mental health professional. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

How Can I Improve My Mood by Changing My Lifestyle?

To enhance your mood through lifestyle changes, start by embracing regular exercise to boost endorphins and alleviate stress. Adopt a nourishing dietrich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while minimizing sugar and processed foods. Prioritize quality sleep by aiming for 7-9 hours each night to support overall well-being. Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to maintain emotional balance.

Cultivate meaningful social connections with friends and family to enrich your emotional life, and indulge in hobbies that bring joy and a sense of accomplishment. Set realistic and purposeful goals to provide motivation and direction.

Last but not least, if you encounter persistent mood challenges, seeking guidance from a mental health professional (such as a counsellor, an art therapist, or a psychotherapist) can offer valuable support. Integrating these strategies into your daily life can foster sustained emotional well-being and fulfillment.

Written by Linxuan (Skyler) Li

Edited by Reyhane Namdari

References:

Canada, P. H. A. of. (2016, December 30). Government of Canada. Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/chronic-diseases/mental-illness/what-depression.html

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression#:~:text=Depression%20(also%20known%20as%20major,sleeping%2C%20eating%2C%20or%20working.

Esposito, C. M., Mancini, M., Estradé, A., Rosfort, R., Fusar-Poli, P., & Stanghellini, G. (2024). How do depressed people feel perceived by others? A qualitative study from the patient’s perspective. Journal of Affective Disorders Reports, 16, 100776. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadr.2024.100776

Foster children in Montreal, like in many other urban areas, face a range of mental health challenges. Some of these challenges may include attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral issues, and a heightened sense of instability due to frequent placement changes. Traumatic experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or removal from their biological families, can contribute to these mental health challenges.

What are the Best Approaches to Therapy for Foster Children?

 The choice of therapy for foster children should be individualized to address their specific needs and challenges. Evidence suggests that trauma-focused therapies, such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), are effective for addressing the trauma-related symptoms commonly observed in foster children. However, art therapy, play therapy, and other creative therapies can also play a valuable role in fostering self-expression and emotional healing.

What are the Mental Health Programs for Foster Children in Montreal?

To find specific mental health programs for foster children in Montreal, it is recommended to consult local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and mental health service providers. These programs may include counseling services, support groups, and therapeutic interventions tailored to the needs of foster children. Contacting organizations like Batshaw Youth and Family Centres or local health authorities can provide up-to-date information on available services.

Therapy services can also be found at private therapy centres in Montreal, where the services are provided by psychologists, art therapists, or social workers. While psychologists in Montreal can help with psychological evaluations and offering a psychological diagnosis when required, psychotherapy can be offered by psychotherapists and child therapy can be offered art therapists and play therapists in Montreal.

Indigenous children who are in foster care in Montreal can have art therapy services under Jordan Principal’s funding or see a psychologist who is registered for NIHB.

What are the Art Therapy Services for Indigenous Children in Foster Care in Montreal?

Art therapy services for  Indigenous children in foster care in Montreal should involve culturally sensitive and community-driven approaches. Collaborating with Indigenous organizations, elders, and community leaders is crucial to providing appropriate and accessible services. Art therapy programs should incorporate Indigenous cultural elements and when possible, traditional healing practices while respecting the child’s cultural identity and heritage.

With that in mind, art therapists who practice in Montreal or on the reserve often use a trauma-informed approach in their practice while maintaining a client-centered way of providing care. Story-telling, Mindfulness exercises, and Nature-based art therapy are also often used in an art therapy session.

What are the Signs a Foster Child Might Benefit from Art Therapy?

Art therapy can be beneficial for foster children who display signs of emotional distress, such as:

a) Difficulty expressing their feelings verbally.

b) Exhibiting behavioral problems, aggression or other risky behaviors

c) Struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth.

d) Experiencing symptoms of trauma, including nightmares or flashbacks.

e) Difficulty forming attachments or trust with caregivers or peers.

Dyad art therapy sessions can help the child and the foster parents develop a positive relationship. Discuss the needs of having a dyad session with your art therapist. Moreover, art therapy is often requested by social workers when a child is to return to their biological family. Art therapy would be a safe and non-judgemental space for the child to process their feelings about this transition.

Read about our art therapists in Montreal and reach out to us if you are considering starting art therapy for your child or teenager. Email us at Admin@montrealarttherapy.com

Foster children in Montreal, like in many other urban areas, face a range of mental health challenges. Some of these challenges may include attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), behavioral issues, and a heightened sense of instability due to frequent placement changes. Traumatic experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or removal from their biological families, can contribute to these mental health challenges.

What are the Best Approaches to Therapy for Foster Children?

 The choice of therapy for foster children should be individualized to address their specific needs and challenges. Evidence suggests that trauma-focused therapies, such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), are effective for addressing the trauma-related symptoms commonly observed in foster children. However, art therapy, play therapy, and other creative therapies can also play a valuable role in fostering self-expression and emotional healing.

What are the Mental Health Programs for Foster Children in Montreal?

To find specific mental health programs for foster children in Montreal, it is recommended to consult local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and mental health service providers. These programs may include counseling services, support groups, and therapeutic interventions tailored to the needs of foster children. Contacting organizations like Batshaw Youth and Family Centres or local health authorities can provide up-to-date information on available services.

Therapy services can also be found at private therapy centres in Montreal, where the services are provided by psychologists, art therapists, or social workers. While psychologists in Montreal can help with psychological evaluations and offering a psychological diagnosis when required, psychotherapy can be offered by psychotherapists and child therapy can be offered art therapists and play therapists in Montreal.

Indigenous children who are in foster care in Montreal can have art therapy services under Jordan Principal’s funding or see a psychologist who is registered for NIHB.

What are the Art Therapy Services for Indigenous Children in Foster Care in Montreal?

Art therapy services for  Indigenous children in foster care in Montreal should involve culturally sensitive and community-driven approaches. Collaborating with Indigenous organizations, elders, and community leaders is crucial to providing appropriate and accessible services. Art therapy programs should incorporate Indigenous cultural elements and when possible, traditional healing practices while respecting the child’s cultural identity and heritage.

With that in mind, art therapists who practice in Montreal or on the reserve often use a trauma-informed approach in their practice while maintaining a client-centered way of providing care. Story-telling, Mindfulness exercises, and Nature-based art therapy are also often used in an art therapy session.

What are the Signs a Foster Child Might Benefit from Art Therapy?

Art therapy can be beneficial for foster children who display signs of emotional distress, such as:

a) Difficulty expressing their feelings verbally.

b) Exhibiting behavioral problems, aggression or other risky behaviors

c) Struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth.

d) Experiencing symptoms of trauma, including nightmares or flashbacks.

e) Difficulty forming attachments or trust with caregivers or peers.

Dyad art therapy sessions can help the child and the foster parents develop a positive relationship. Discuss the needs of having a dyad session with your art therapist. Moreover, art therapy is often requested by social workers when a child is to return to their biological family. Art therapy would be a safe and non-judgemental space for the child to process their feelings about this transition.

Read about our art therapists in Montreal and reach out to us if you are considering starting art therapy for your child or teenager. Email us at Admin@montrealarttherapy.com