Asheville Child Therapy
USING EXPRESSIVE ART THERAPIES
TO HELP YOUNG PEOPLE
DISCOVER THEIR
SELF WORTH AND POTENTIAL
As a child, we learn through play and relationships.
As a teen, we want to fit in and belong.
As a young adult, we want to discover who we are, find love, and define our purpose in life.
As parents, we want the best for our children. We want to see them happy and successful while striving to be the best parents that we can be.
Sometimes we all could use a little help to heal from what life throws at us.
During difficult times, we might search for a therapist.
We want to find someone with whom we can connect and feel safe to express, and heal, what aches in our hearts.
Through this warm and compassionate therapeutic relationship, we uncover and express deep feelings, gain new insights about who we are, and learn better ways to cope so we can more fully become who we want to be.
Parents,
Are you concerned about your child or teenager?
WOULD YOU LIKE SOME HELP?
In an inviting and supportive space, I offer creative pathways for both verbal and non-verbal expression. Such a container provides the safety and acceptance your child, teen or young adult needs to uncover deep feelings, heal any difficulties standing in the way, and to transition through each stage of their development to realize his or her authentic hopes, desires, and dreams.
I offer you my experience and wisdom from decades of working with clients from all walks of life. From working predominantly in the public schools as a child development specialist and school counselor, I specialize in child and teen therapy. But, I also offer an inclusive and nurturing therapeutic experience, welcoming all people, no matter what stage of life you may be in.
The goal of counseling is to witness your child moving from his or her childhood, through the teen years, and on to young adulthood living a more happy, purposeful and authentic life.
Melina Bridges, LCMHC
Psychotherapist
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Children and teens often don't respond well to traditional talk therapy. Expressive art therapies can offer a great outlet. Emphasis is placed on expression through various creative mediums which offer opportunities for self expression, insights and healing.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Children will readily express their inner conflicts through play activities. Teens who are reluctant to engage in talk therapy may find the creative aspects of expressive therapy a safe and fulfilling way to share their inner world, thoughts and feelings.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Play therapy may incorporate tools such as the Sand tray, the Doll house or Puppetry. Using these vehicles for expression, children share inner tensions through symbolic interactions and dialogues, often reflecting previously unexpressed thoughts and feelings.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Active imagination is often used across all forms of the creative therapies. Taking on the role, or identity, of an object or symbol and personifying it is a curative imaginative process where one can directly experience inner aspects that rise to the surface of awareness.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
As a picture can express a thousand words, artistic expression offers a depth to the therapeutic experience. Through drawing, painting and collage work, emotions are encouraged to full expression.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Creative writing, poetry, or journaling offer fertile opportunities for self expression and can be beneficial in one’s healing process. It allows teens and children to explore current themes and offers opportunities for reflection and revision.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
Through dancing and movement, a child can experience him or herself somatically and also through the various bodily sensations that arise. Through drama and roleplaying, your child can heal from pain, and experiment with new and alternate ways of being.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
The Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a method for healing pain and emotional distress through the use of the fingertips tapping on various meridian points throughout the body to help release blockages and restore the flow of energy. EFT is commonly referred to as tapping or psychological acupressure. Children and teens often find this helpful in dealing with anxiety, PTSD and ADHD.
Children and teens often don't respond well to traditional talk therapy. Expressive art therapies can offer a great outlet. Emphasis is placed on expression through various creative mediums which offer opportunities for self expression, insights and healing.
Children will readily express their inner conflicts through play activities. Teens who are reluctant to engage in talk therapy may find the creative aspects of expressive therapy a safe and fulfilling way to share their inner world, thoughts and feelings.
Expressive arts can include Play Therapy, Creative Writing & Journaling, Sand and Doll play, Art & Music, Dance & Movement and Active Imagination.
what is expressive ARTS therapy?
I’m so fortunate to have been in Melina Bridges’ care as a kindergartner through adolescence. She helped me navigate through some of my life’s greatest challenges with a willing ear to listen to me speak, assistance in confronting my problems, and celebration of my accomplishments. The endless support and encouragement was what helped me grow into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for Melina’s presence and the way she has, and continues, to touch my life.
-Elise G
"
"
specialites
Parent and Family Support
Communication Enhancement
Loneliness & Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Developing Healthy Boundaries
Relationship Support
Transitional Support
Grief and Loss
Moving or Changing Schools
Divorce and Blended Families
Recovery from Trauma
Identity Issues
Body Image
Purpose in Life
Depression and Anxiety
Sexuality and Sexual Identity
Educational Development
ADHD, Conduct Issues, Task Management
Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Support.
Educational Consulting (Special Education/504)
College Admission Process, Crafting Essays
"I’m so fortunate to have been in Melina Bridges’ care as a kindergartner through adolescence. She helped me navigate through some of my life’s greatest challenges with a willing ear to listen to me speak, assistance in confronting my problems, and celebration of my accomplishments. The endless support and encouragement was what helped me grow into the person I am today. I am forever grateful for Melina’s presence and the way she has, and continues, to touch my life."
-Elise G
Melina Bridges
828-747-8900
30 Cumberland Avenue, suite #104
Asheville, NC 28801
melinabridges57@gmail.com
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