I’m an Ontario-based graduate-level art therapy student with a strong academic background and a passion for integrating creative expression with therapeutic practice
Educational Background
I hold an Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto, where my studies provided a solid foundation in psychological principles and research methodologies. I later completed a Master’s degree in Psychology, further deepening my understanding of human behaviour and mental health.
Currently, I am pursuing post-graduate studies through the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute’s distance learning program, where I am honing my skills in using art as a medium for healing and self-discovery. As part of my training, I am gaining hands-on experience facilitating art therapy sessions and developing a nuanced approach that embraces both scientific and artistic perspectives.
Approach and Values
Committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, I am dedicated to helping individuals explore their emotions and experiences through creative expression, promoting psychological well-being and personal growth.
My clinical work is supported through ongoing supervision and oversight, in accordance with the ethical and professional standards of my training program, the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA), and the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
📌 Before booking a first session with me, please schedule a free 15-minute video consultation with Karen Freud who can answer your questions and help determine if working together is a good fit.
I’m Karen Freud, a Registered Psychotherapist and Art Therapist in North York, Ontario with over 20 years of experience supporting adults in private practice, community mental health, long-term care, and addiction recovery. I help adults understand what’s getting in the way, identify what they want to be different, and find a way forward that feels right for them.
Our sessions aren’t rigid or scripted. We’ll start with what’s on your mind and follow the conversation where it needs to go. If you’re not sure where to start, I’ll help you get going—and if something important comes up along the way, I’ll bring it into the conversation.
I believe therapy should look at the whole picture—not just what’s difficult, but also your strengths, what you’ve learned along the way, and what matters most to you. Together, we’ll explore what you want your life to look like and what might help you move toward it.
My approach is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I want you to feel comfortable being honest about what’s going on, while also having someone who can offer perspective, ask the questions that help you think things through, and help you find practical ways forward.
Art therapy can also be incorporated into sessions if you’re interested. You don’t need to be artistic or have any experience with art. Some people prefer to talk, while others find that creativity gives them another way to explore what’s going on. We can decide together what feels most useful for you.
You don’t need to know exactly what you need from therapy before you begin. We can start with what’s bringing you in now and work from there.
We can start with a conversation—choose a time that works for you
