Art Therapy: Complimentary Treatment for Adolescent Self-Injury
Marina Doering • July 24, 2024
Self-injury in adolescents is receiving increased attention in the media and across the mental health field. These incidents are unfortunately common among adolescents and, as the data shows us, increasingly so. Yet, we are systemically under-resourced to meet the obvious and growing need.
Adolescents throughout the country are boarding in hospital emergency rooms as they wait for space to open in more appropriate settings to begin to address the root-cause of the event, such as in-patient treatment facilities. I’m sure this is scary to hear, to think about, to envision your own child in the shoes of an in-crisis adolescent.
Often the short-term treatment environment is insufficient. Adolescents subsequently experience a relapse in symptoms and end up hospitalized once again. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “while the causes of [self-harm] can vary, prevention strategies share two goals: to reduce factors that increase risk and to increase factors that promote resilience or coping.”
At their core, incidences of self-harm are the result of an attempt to find an outlet for an overwhelming feeling, or set of feelings, particularly prevalent among those experiencing depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
We as providers seek to support our patient’s journey to reduce and avoid risk factors and increase resilience and coping skills. While traditional talk-therapy can help a patient be more mindful about avoiding environments containing risk factors once they leave the office, life happens. It isn’t possible to control every aspect of normal life, nor reasonable to expect that you can. In my experience it is more powerful to build a strong toolkit of resilience and coping techniques. My favorite among them is art therapy.
Art therapy uses creative expression to promote mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This treatment modality is established in the belief that the artistic process itself is a unique therapeutic channel. It does not require artistic talent, as the focus is not on the product itself but the ability of the individual to connect to internal feelings and create positive, supportive outlets throughout the creative process.
Using art therapy as a complementary treatment for those at-risk of self-harm merges artistic approaches with strategies that help reduce intrusive thoughts and decrease risk of self-harm. By having individuals engage in sensory art forms such as sculpting, clay formation, printmaking, painting, and making collages, self-harming behavior can be replaced with a more productive outlet. This positive association can then transcend into other concepts such as art as a form of socialization or boosting self-esteem.
Art therapy can enhance an individual’s treatment journey by providing safe ways of exploring overwhelming and inexplainable internal emotions in a safe, external space. It can provide something concrete and manageable during a time of unpredictable transition and growth, which is most often occurs during adolescence. Utilizing the brain’s natural creative instincts and ability to support emotional distress, can allow us ways to “balance out” our often-heavy use of logic when looking to manage a problem. By inserting the use of art into treatment or even at home, at school, or in the community, we are supporting adolescents as they discover what it means to feel, cope, and let go of harmful thoughts and feelings.
(In Deer Valley, Arizona and a few other campuses Brightmont offers a group art class for students.)
Marina is a licensed professional counselor and board certified art therapist.
LPC is Licensed Professional Counselor, and it means she has completed all the academic and clinical expectations to provide mental health counseling services (specifically in Arizona, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Pennsylvania.
CCTSI is Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist for Individuals and means she is able to provide trauma-informed care to individual patients. RYT is Registered Yoga Teacher and means she has completed 200 hours’ worth of requirements to understand and instruct yogic practices.
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Private School in Northville Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Northville, MI — Brightmont Academy, a fully accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is proud to announce the appointment of Sarah Hermann as the new Campus Director of its Northville location. Hermann brings a diverse and dynamic background in athletics, education, and student development, with a passion for helping students reach their full potential. Hermann’s path to Brightmont is uniquely inspiring. Growing up, she played elite-level hockey and, at just 22, became the youngest NCAA lacrosse coach in the country. Beyond athletics, she has built a robust career in education, college admissions, and working with gifted and twice-exceptional students. “I was drawn to Brightmont because of its unique one-to-one model and commitment to truly personalized education,” said Hermann. “It’s a place where I can help students thrive in a way that’s tailored to who they are and where they want to go.” Hermann holds a Bachelor’s in Human Resource Management, a Master’s in Higher Education, and an Education Specialist degree, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Education in Innovation and Leadership. Her advanced education, combined with her experience across athletics and admissions, gives her a comprehensive perspective on student growth. “My experience in college admissions, athletics, and working with gifted and twice-exceptional students allows me to support students from multiple angles,” Hermann explained. “I’m passionate about helping each student discover their strengths and choose a path that fits their individual goals.” As she steps into her new role, Hermann is eager to strengthen the Northville campus community. “My goal is to grow the Northville campus into a strong, supportive community where every student feels empowered, challenged, and confident in their journey forward both academically and personally,” she said. Brightmont Academy looks forward to the innovation and energy Hermann will bring to the Northville campus, continuing the school’s mission to provide exceptional, individualized education that helps students succeed both in and beyond the classroom. Brightmont Academy is located at 15374 N. Haggerty Road in Northville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.cademy is located in nine states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
The Top Benefits of One-to-One Education for Middle and High School Students
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Students who remain in an unsuitable learning environment can experience declines in GPA, increased absenteeism, and higher stress levels. Brightmont Academy, a fully accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, reminds families that they don’t have to wait until the next school year to make a change. Thanks to rolling admissions, students can transfer to Brightmont at nearly any point and continue their education without falling behind. According to Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy, one of the most common times families make the switch is in October. “October is one of Brightmont’s largest enrollment months,” Buckner said. “Why? Because we’re rolling admissions, which means if it’s not going well for your child in the first semester—whether they’re in freshman year, sophomore year, eighth grade, or sixth grade—don’t make them stick it out until the end. Make the change now and know that Brightmont is here to help you in making that change.” Buckner explained that the timing of a transfer doesn’t have to set a student back academically. “Students who come in October have ample time to take care of the first semester of whatever year they’re in, perhaps even stay for the second semester, but they will not lose pace with their peers,” Buckner said. Buckner also emphasized that many parents are unaware that mid-year enrollment is an option. “I think that’s a big concern kids have, and frankly, parents don’t always know that there’s an option,” she explained. “They think, ‘Oh, maybe next year we’ll change schools,’ or ‘maybe we’ll look at doing something different for the second semester.’ The best thing you can do is make the change earlier—before it hits the transcript if you’re in high school, or the report card if you’re in middle school. You can enroll at Brightmont and find a better, more personalized solution.” Brightmont Academy has served more than 4,000 students since its founding in 1999, helping children succeed academically through its unique one-to-one instruction model. The school offers open enrollment throughout the year, ensuring families can make the right decision for their child when it matters most. Brightmont Academy is located in nine states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
One-to-one instruction is custom, flexible, and supportive for middle school and high school students. Since success looks different for every family, understanding how quality educational support can impact outcomes is essential. In this article, I’ll explore the top five benefits of one-to-one instruction and how it supports long-term student success. One: Immediate Feedback and Support Teens are diverse learners with individual personalities; they need feedback and support. Wins are celebrated and mistakes become opportunities to grow. The latest research compiled, for The International Journal of Technology and Higher Education, with over a century of data states “Additionally, effective feedback should be personalized to meet individual learners’ needs and formative, delivered while students can still act on it to improve their performance.”(Weidlich et. al., 2025). Achievement becomes attainable through discussion, questions, and reteaching strategies. Highly informative feedback using learning analytics: how feedback literacy moderates student perceptions of feedback | International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education Two: Mastery-Based Progression
Private School in Redmond Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Redmond, WA — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is proud to announce the appointment of Ann Vinson as the new Campus Director of its Redmond campus. Vinson steps into the role following the tenure of Kerri Resing, who did an amazing job while she was there. Resing will continue to support the Redmond team by helping the campus strengthen its connections with local school districts. Vinson joins Brightmont with over two decades of experience in education and a deep passion for personalized learning. “The mission of Brightmont is to provide customized one-to-one instruction to help as many students as possible reach their full academic potential and prepare for college and future careers,” said Vinson. “I have been in education for 20+ years, and my goal has always been to reach each student where they are to help elevate them to new heights. Brightmont is my goal in action, helping each student achieve success through one-to-one instruction based on their starting point and mastery of each topic, while allowing my teachers to teach to their passions!” Before joining Brightmont, Vinson spent nearly 20 years teaching elementary and middle school before moving into school administration. “Having been in a classroom for so many years, I truly understand what students and teachers need to be successful,” she explained. “I have 5+ years of experience as a director in a school, and I understand the business aspect of our schools as well. I can use my experience to create a well-rounded learning environment where our students can reach mastery and further their education.” Vinson’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Saint Mary’s College of California, a Juris Doctor from Southwestern University School of Law, and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Loyola Marymount University. Looking ahead, Vinson is excited to build a thriving, engaging campus environment. “I want a school filled all day with students enjoying the learning process! I love the ‘buzz’ of a busy campus with teachers engaged and students embracing new things.” Brightmont Academy looks forward to Ann Vinson’s leadership in continuing its mission to help every student reach their full potential through individualized education. Brightmont Academy is located at 7345 164th Ave NE, Ste I-135 in Redmond and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, October 16th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Private School in Castle Pines Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Castle Pines, CO — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, has completed a 2,290-square-foot expansion at its Castle Pines campus. This significant addition was driven by a surge in enrollment and growing interest in individualized education across Colorado. Families are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional classroom settings, prioritizing personalized instruction that meets each student’s unique needs. The expanded campus reflects Brightmont’s commitment to providing flexible, customized learning environments while introducing innovative spaces that support both academic achievement and creative expression. The Castle Pines campus has experienced steady growth in recent years, leading to the need for additional space to accommodate more students. “The campus needed to expand in response to an overall increase in enrollment over the years,” said Matthew Sanders, Campus Director of Brightmont Castle Pines. The expansion provides a variety of new areas dedicated to both academic and creative pursuits. “With the extra space, we are focused on expanding learning opportunities in all academic subjects, as well as creating spaces that allow students to show their creative sides,” explained Sanders. “This includes designated spaces for science labs, engineering, and more social areas.” Students, families, and teachers have already expressed enthusiasm for the updates. “As the word gets out about the designated spaces, students and teachers are becoming very excited for the new expansion,” said Sanders. “I’ve even had a few parents and students reach out about their ideas for the space.” For prospective families considering Brightmont Academy, Sanders emphasized that this project reflects the school’s ongoing mission to provide individualized education. “I would inform them that we are never done growing and expanding opportunities to our students,” Sanders said. “This new expansion has given us even more tools to create a customized school for everyone.” Brightmont Academy is located at 858 W. Happy Canyon Rd. Ste. 170 in Castle Pines and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, October 16th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
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Private School in Barrington Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Barrington, IL — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is growing again in Barrington — adding nine new classrooms and 2,200 square feet in its second expansion since opening. The move underscores the school’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of a growing student population and providing an environment where every learner receives individualized attention. This expansion reflects the continued confidence families in Barrington and surrounding communities have in Brightmont’s proven approach to education, which pairs each student with a dedicated teacher and customizes lessons to fit their unique learning style, pace, and goals. Over the past two years, enrollment growth has been steady, fueled by families seeking a more personalized alternative to traditional classroom settings. This surge in interest led to the creative use of every available space on campus. “We eventually ran out of classrooms,” said Barbara Sitkiewicz, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy Barrington. “To accommodate students, we created makeshift classrooms in the atrium and Homework Studio areas—and at times, even held classes in the lunchroom. We also used dividers to split two larger classrooms into four smaller spaces. While these solutions were creative, they did not provide the most effective learning environment for our students.” The additional classrooms will not only open up much-needed space but also create opportunities to refine how learning is delivered. “The expansion will not only increase our overall capacity but also allow us to tailor student schedules to align with the times of day when they learn most effectively.” The expansion will also allow for new student-focused amenities, designed to support both academic and emotional well-being. “In addition to the new classrooms, we plan to create a Recharge Room where students can take a break by lounging on a giant bean bag chair, using a walking pad, or riding a stationary bike,” Sitkiewicz said. Brightmont Academy is located at 400 E. Main St. in Barrington and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, October 16th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
