Welcome
As an Art Psychotherapist, I believe deeply in the healing power of art-making and creativity. Whether you're struggling with loss, anxiety, trauma or depression, art can help you articulate difficult feelings, find meaning and healthier ways to cope.
​
Together we'll explore art materials and methods that tap into your own natural creativity and set you on a path to achieving your mental health goals. No artistic talent or skills are necessary - just a willingness to explore.
Art materials can be expensive and intimidating, so we'll work together to find a type of art-making that makes sense for you, your budget, and your therapeutic goals.
Cynthia Gardner
She/Her
Art Psychotherapist, APD, BA
Expressive Therapies Continuum Practitioner
Professional Member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association
Now accepting clients for weekday appointments with some evening and weekend availability.
​
My online art therapy practice supports individuals wanting to improve their mental health.
You'll explore different forms of art-making designed to generate personal insight and healthier ways of coping with life's problems. An arts-based approach can also complement existing therapeutic goals.
​
Attachment (Bowlby, Proulx) and the person-centered work of Carl Rogers are key theoretical influences. I am also certified in the use of the Expressive Therapies Continuum (Lisa Hinz).
​
Professional Education & Experience
​
-
Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD), the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
-
Trained Expressive Therapy Continuum Practitioner (Lisa Hinz, 2021)
-
Bachelor of Arts, York University
-
Nurturing creative problem-solving skills for kids as a team coach, adjudicator & volunteer for Destination Imagination
-
A career in corporate communications and creative writing, with additional training and experience as a journalist
​​Areas of Expertise
Anxiety
Caregiver Fatigue
Digital Health & Wellness (Individual & Family)
Depression
Eating Disorders
Expressive Writing & Art Therapy
Grief
Loneliness
Stress & Burnout
Trauma
Women's Issues
​​​
​
Art-Based Education & Experience
​
-
Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) courses in watercolor and landscape painting
-
Art piece titled “Feelings Circus” exhibited at the Station Gallery in Whitby, Ontario (Dec 22 – Jan 23)
-
Wheel and hand-building pottery instruction at the Haliburton School of Art and Design & from ceramic artist Maria (Guida) Pirita