A different Approach to Mental Health
We are not a traditional mental resource and we are not arts and crafts either : We are different.
We Guide, You Discover
We are the therapists that use play, creativity and purpose for people feeling lost looking for clarity and direction.
You are interested in finding your path : Visit our events page for group workshops or book a free consultation with one of our professionals
As we grow up, we often lose touch with the playful and creative parts of ourselves. We tend to prioritize cognitive or practical skills—like analytical thinking, reading, or professional responsibility—over the intrinsic value of play. Yet, play is not merely a vestige of childhood; it is a lifelong necessity. Neuroscience now confirms that engaging in play and stimulating creativity—whether through writing, music, movement, or visual arts—is essential for brain health. By intentionally integrating these activities into our daily lives, we can bypass our internal defenses, reduce stress, and foster a more resilient, authentic connection to our inner selves.
Creative Arts Therapies | Counselling | Psychotherapy
Ginkgo Centre for Creative Arts Therapies is located in Ottawa, Ontario and currently provides virtual services in English, French and Farsi to teens and adults (12+) living in Ontario.
Our Services
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Discover new ways of communicating
Creative arts therapies use artistic expression—like image-making, storytelling, and roleplay as a gentle way to explore and process feelings when words aren't enough. Instead of focusing on talent, these approaches tap into your natural imagination to help you heal, reduce stress, and gain deeper self-awareness. We currently offer both Art Therapy and Dramatherapy to support you on your journey.
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Using evidence-based approaches
Embark on a personalized journey of self-exploration with our Registered Psychotherapists and Canadian Certified Counsellors. Utilizing evidence-based approaches, we delve into the complexities of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we navigate challenges, build coping strategies, and work towards achieving your mental health goals.
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Stimulate personal and collective growth
At Ginkgo we facilitate creative arts therapies, such as art therapy or drama therapy workshops designed to stimulate personal and collective growth. Through the often less familiar process of making something, participants are provided the opportunity for self-expression, which allows participants to tap into their creativity, to see things in a new way, to learn about themselves, and to expand their personal awareness.
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Everyone is an artist
The Art Hives Network connects small and regenerative community art studios (known as Art Hives) to strengthen and promote inclusive, welcoming art spaces across around the world. At the heart of its mission, an art hive believes that everyone is an artist and works to promote local community engagement. Our art hive facilitators host pop-up art hives in various locations in Ottawa. Sign up to our mailing list to find out when and where the next pop-up will be!
Here’s How We Can Work Together
Perhaps this is your first time in therapy or maybe it’s your tenth time, wherever you are in your journey – welcome, you have arrived.
Now that you are here, we invite you to look around, be curious, be skeptical, and if you are unsure of where to start, take a look at our values below to see if we are a good fit for you at this time.
We believe that each individual has the ability to tap into their own power, to face their fears, to overcome challenges and to grow in the face of adversity; sometimes we just need a little help and that is where we come in.
Courage
Our aim is to welcome each person as they are. As a Centre we strive to stay true to our values and are committed to ongoing learning, community outreach and expanding into areas that are new for us (and a bit intimidating).
Authenticity
As therapists in our field and as curious people, we strive to know what we do not know. We recognize that growth is multidimensional and we look toward our colleagues, teachers and Elders to educate us.
Growth
Relationships
Our Centre was established as a collaborative vision between two friends and colleagues. We believe that our connection with ourselves, other people and our environment vastly enriches our lives and in turn, the lives of the people we support.
You heard it here first
Don’t worry we won’t flood your inbox. Sign up to hear about waitlist openings, upcoming group workshops and events!