Katie Arnold

As a licensed professional counselor and registered art therapist, my goal is to work collaboratively with my clients so that they may achieve their goals. I have a diverse background in treating trauma, co-occurring disorders, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues and mental health from a person centered perspective utilizing unconditional positive regard. I feel that my ability to create a strong therapeutic alliance with clients as one of my biggest strengths. For those suffering from PTSD/other past trauma, I offer EMDR therapy which continues to be researched as highly effective for individuals suffering from these conditions. I also utilize art therapy in combination with other treatment models to address somatic processing (as discussed in "The Body Keeps the Score") and when we "don't have words" or language for the trauma. Rather than relying only on talking, art therapy encourages visual, physical, and the use of metaphors through art making for healing and understanding. I received my MA from one of the top 5 Art therapy and Counseling programs at SIUE. This rigorous training and longer course curriculum gave me the ability to become a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist. While art therapy is not for everyone, many find it a safe way to confront fears, take risks, and truly express themselves. I also offer art as therapy techniques to use for mindfulness, coping skills, and gaining your own insight outside of session. When working with eating disorders, I assess the client for appropriate level of care to meet their goals, and make my recommendation. My outpatient practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care or treatment (Intensive Outpatient, Residential, or PHP) and are in a place in their recovery where they are safe and ready to confront issues underlying or driving the eating disorder. I do require that all of my clients with eating disorders agree to follow my treatment recommendations or accept the consequence that I will not be able to continue to see them. One of my passions is Gender Affirming Care. I strive to provide nurturing care to help with transition or to heal from gender dysphoria, and other issues specific to gender experience. As an art therapist, I feel I have unique skills in assisting people in finding their true gender expression using art, make up, and narrative therapy. For some, it might be unsafe to use true gender expression with family and community. I offer the therapeutic relationship and office as a safe place to be who you are.