Carolyn Schweda

LPC, LCAT

I have always been interested in art. When I was little, I would tell people I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. I became interested in psychology and learning about why people think, feel, and behave the way they do in high school. When I learned about art therapy, it was a no-brainer to make a career out of these two interests. I get to use my jack-of-all-trades knowledge of different art materials and my counseling training to help people. It truly is a dream job.

Several elements of my personality come through in my approach to therapy. I have a playful sense of humor, which often helps bring some levity to the serious topics addressed in therapy. I won't make fun of you or your experiences, but I might make a funny sound, a pun, or reference a meme. Another element that comes through is my introversion. I'm not someone who feels the need to fill silence if I don't have something to say. The silences that occur in therapy can be comfortable or uncomfortable, and exploring why they feel that way can be insightful. As an art therapist, these silences often occur while we make art. We can also put some music on in the background if this is more comfortable.

You are allowed (and encouraged!) to tell your therapist what isn't working for you. If there is something about therapy that feels uncomfortable, a good therapist will help you understand why that happens, and make adjustments as needed. A therapist is an expert on mental health, but you are the expert on your life, your needs, and your experiences.