Paula Acheson, ATR-BC

The mirror

Let’s talk about the person you see when you look in the mirror. There is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle, but it may be difficult to see right now.

Maybe you’ve been kept up at night by worries that you’ll always have to be dependent on others, regretting awkward moments when it’s hard to relate to those around you, or wondering what your purpose is. You must be longing for a sense of freedom from these thoughts.

An honest reflection

You have struggled to see beyond the reflection of a child trying to “adult” in this world. This is where we can start our work together. I’ve created a space for you to explore choices on your own, learn to appreciate your abilities, and transform them into strengths that remove barriers from your life.

This is a place where you are in control! This is a place where no one will have that “what’s wrong with you” look on their face! But this is a place where people sometimes feel a little uncomfortable and vulnerable.

That person in the mirror is your only competition right now.

Getting acquainted

If you’ve been to therapy before, I’ve got a few counseling methods that may seem different from what you have previously encountered in therapy. Regardless, if you’ve been to therapy, that’s okay. Keep reading.

I want you to learn to get a feel for what it is like to work with me.

Art therapy

Art, writing, music, and movement are some of my co-therapists. These techniques, suitable for all ages and skill levels, support many people in finding pride for who they are in this world.

I can tell you from personal experience as a digital artist, stepping outside of your comfort zone may help you see just how much potential you’ve had all along.

Making art together helps you learn more about yourself, feel more joy and confidence when talking to others, and taking real life healthy risks. These techniques have helped neurodivergent individuals as well as people battling addiction, disordered eating, navigating changes in life, or seeking personal growth.

Goals

First things first. Let’s plan a chance to meet and identify your goals. Consider the last time that you felt satisfied with where you are in life as well as your friendships and relationships. If we were having this conversation six months from now, what would you need to see to feel good about your progress?

My goal is to work together with clients to achieve their goals. I want the people I work with to feel good about the growth and change they see happening in their reflection.

I want my clients to see that they matter!

Change is possible

Starting therapy can feel a bit daunting, but I won’t ask you to do anything I’m not willing to do myself.

Change is possible! I’ve seen people isolated and lonely learn to smile and sing again. They found safety, hope, and joy in everyday life.

Do you want any of these things, too? If you have questions for me, please call or email me. A consultation is free, so let’s schedule one!


About Me

As you know by now, I’m Paula. I’m an Art Therapist, but I like to think of myself as a “people artist.” I help people who want to get more out of their life but don’t know where to start.

It’s important to me that you have choices in your therapy as much as in the art making process. Do you want to color with messy chalk or carve into a block that you can use to stamp with ink? You can decide what is yours to keep or leave behind.

You will find plenty of opportunities to practice asking for what you need, but more importantly given the space to do it by yourself.  You will know your abilities and be able to transition them to daily life where barriers can be moved, and you will be more prepared to take the next step.

Let me show you how it’s done!