Sensory Art & Art Counseling

Sensory Art

Sensory art introduces students to a variety of materials to allow them to experience different textures, shapes, sounds, colors, patterns and more. This exposure helps students explore new experiences in a fun and playful way and increases their ability to tolerate new stimuli. Sensory art also allows students to build fine motor skills, regulate emotions and increase attention tolerance. Sensory art programs are taught by professionals with experience in mental health/counseling or working with students with disabilities.

Sensory art programs are currently available at no cost to families at the following sites:

Hope Haven
Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center

Eligibility for CAP’s sensory art program is based on a number of factors. Contact your school for more information.

Art Counseling

In art counseling, art techniques are combined with mental health counseling to help students express their thoughts in a non-verbal way. Students can build self-confidence, reduce anxiety, strengthen connections with peers and learn to express themselves positively. The goal of art counseling is to help students find greater success both in and out of the classroom. Art Counseling is led by CAP’s Clinical Creative Art Counselor, a licensed mental health counselor.

Art counseling programs are currently available at no cost to families at the following sites:

Alfred I. duPont Middle
GRASP Academy
San Jose Elementary

Please check with your school or organization for open house and orientation dates for art counseling, or for obtaining a program referral. 

Testimonials

“Art counseling groups and sensory art groups offer multifaceted benefits for children with autism, dyslexia, and mental health disorders. These creative environments foster self-expression, allowing children to communicate feelings and experiences that may be difficult to verbalize. Engaging in art-making can enhance fine motor skills, improve focus and boost confidence as children see their ideas materialize. The sensory aspects of art—such as textures, colors and movement—provide calming and stimulating experiences that can help regulate emotions and reduce anxiety. Moreover, participating in group settings cultivates social skills, promotes teamwork and nurtures a sense of belonging, which is vital for emotional development. By integrating art into therapeutic practices, we create a beautiful tapestry of healing and growth, empowering children to explore their identities and express their uniqueness while fostering resilience and joy.”
LaRhonda Britton-James, Creative Art Counselor, Cathedral Arts Project

“When we integrated art counseling into our educational programs, we not only saw a significant difference in our students’ academic performance and attendance rates, but the students loved that they were able to showcase their creativity and unique abilities beyond the traditional academic measures!”
Kindra Arneson, Assistant Principal, GRASP Academy