Valerie Weiss RP (Qualifying) & Expressive Arts Therapist
Sometimes talking isn't enough. This is where the language of the arts can offer a different way to approach challenges we meet in our lives.
I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) whose main therapeutic approach is Expressive Arts Therapy (ExAT). I also integrate elements of somatics, mindfulness, narrative therapy and IFS into my practice. Together, through a unique combination of gentle conversation and art-making, we'll explore possibilities for reimagining and reshaping your life, so you can connect with your inner wisdom, and find a way forward towards satisfaction, vitality and joy.
As a life-long artist that works in a wide range of modalities, art has been my “constant companion” and a powerful resource in helping me navigate life’s ups and downs. It’s this personal connection to creativity, play and imagination that informs my clinical practice.
My approach is client-centred, relational, resource-oriented and trauma-informed. I strive to create a compassionate space where you can imagine, be curious, and gently challenge old beliefs. Our work together is about co-creating a path toward healing and expansion.
I work with adults, youth (16+), and seniors who are navigating issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, perfectionism, life transitions, parenting, family estrangement, body image, health challenges, and aging, with an awareness of the systemic barriers that impact how we move through the world.
I offer a supportive environment for expressive arts therapy students to enhance their personal and professional growth. Limited sliding-scale openings are available to ensure accessibility during training.
Pronouns: she/her Location: Toronto, ON
Credentials:
Diploma in Expressive Arts Therapy, The Create Institute (2025)
B.A./Bachelor of Arts in Radio and Television Arts, TMU (1987)
Professional Affiliations & Designations:
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)/RP (Qualifying)
Ontario Expressive Arts Therapy Association (OEATA) member
Additional Training:
Mastering Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression & Addiction (2026)
Certificate in Grief Counselling and Treatment (2026)
St. John’s - Gender-Based Violence Course (2025)
The Gatehouse - Peer Support Group Training (2022) - Training to support survivors of childhood sexual abuse
Hospice Palliative Care Ontario (2022)
Pre and Perinatal Trauma Workshop (2021)
Cultural Competency Training (2020)
Areas of expertise and experience: Grief, anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, trauma, perfectionism, life transitions, parenting, family estrangement, body image, health challenges, aging, precariously house/homeless populations.
Treatment Models: Expressive Arts Therapy (ExAT), client-centred, relational, resource-based, trauma-informed, with mindfulness, somatics, Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed approaches
Arts practice: Visual arts, poetry and writing, sculpture, movement, theatre, photography and video
Fee: Please inquire. A limited number of sliding scale spots are offered to Create students.
