Welcome
As an Art Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist with CRPO, I believe deeply in the healing power of art-making. Being creative 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 Therapist, RP, APD
Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
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 and other forms of support such as counselling.
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
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Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
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Art Psychotherapy Diploma (APD), the Canadian International Institute of Art Therapy
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Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Living Works (2026)
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Certified in Gentle Persuation Approaches (GPA) in Dementia Care, Advanced Gerontological Education Inc. (2025)
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Trained Expressive Therapy Continuum Practitioner (Lisa Hinz, 2021)
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Bachelor of Arts, York University
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Nurturing creative problem-solving skills in children as a team coach, adjudicator & volunteer for Destination Imagination
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety
Caregiver Fatigue
Digital Health & Wellness
Depression
Grief
Loneliness
Stress & Burnout
Trauma
Art-Based Education & Experience
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Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) courses in watercolor and acrylic landscape painting
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Art piece titled “Feelings Circus” exhibited at the Station Gallery in Whitby, Ontario (Dec 22 – Jan 23)
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Wheel and hand-building pottery instruction at the Haliburton School of Art and Design & from ceramic artist Maria (Guida) Pirita