When Your Teen Refuses Talk Therapy: How Art Therapy Can Help
- Jackie Ferris
- Sep 21
- 4 min read
Written by Jackie Ferris, Art Psychotherapist Intern at Niilo Wellness in Guelph. Jackie helps overwhelmed but ready-for-change humans explore emotions, unlock creativity, and reconnect with who they truly are — through the healing power of art.
If you’re a parent in Guelph struggling to support a teen who is anxious or depressed and refusing to go to therapy, you are not alone. I meet so many parents who say things like:
“My teen knows they’re struggling, but they shut down when I suggest therapy.”
“They refuse to talk about their feelings, so how will therapy ever work?”
“School has become overwhelming, and they’ve started refusing to go. I don’t know what else to try.”
It’s heartbreaking to watch your teen suffer and feel powerless to help. If traditional “talk therapy” feels like a dead end, there are other options. One approach that often resonates with teens, especially those insist that talk therapy is too awkward, is art therapy.
Why Teens Resist Talk Therapy
It’s actually quite common for anxious or depressed teens to resist therapy, especially when it’s centered on talking. Some reasons I hear from my clients include:
It feels like too much pressure. Talking about feelings on the spot can feel overwhelming or even impossible when anxiety or depression takes hold.
They don’t have the words. Teens often feel deeply but can’t articulate what’s happening inside.
They worry about being judged. Opening up verbally can feel exposing, even with a kind therapist.
It feels like school. Sitting across from someone and answering questions can feel more like an exam than support.
If your teen has already refused talk therapy, it doesn’t mean they are refusing help.
It may just mean they need a different way in.
How Art Therapy is Different
Art therapy provides a pathway for expression that doesn’t rely on words. Instead, it invites creativity, play, and curiosity into the therapeutic space. Here’s how it can help your teen:
A safe way to express feelings. Teens don’t have to explain what they’re feeling; their art can do that for them.
Takes the spotlight off of them. The focus shifts to the process or the artwork itself, which feels less intimidating than direct questioning.
Builds self-esteem and confidence. Creating something tangible helps teens see their own strength, even when they’re struggling.
Regulates emotions. The physical act of drawing, painting, or sculpting can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and make space for healing.
Sometimes words naturally follow the art. Other times, the art is enough. Both are valid.
Art Therapy and School Refusal
School refusal is becoming more common, especially among teens facing anxiety and depression. Parents often feel frustrated or helpless when mornings become battles and attendance slips.
Art therapy can support teens with school refusal by:
Reducing the overwhelm. Creative expression lowers stress and helps them process the emotions fueling avoidance.
Addressing root causes. Whether it’s anxiety, bullying, perfectionism, or burnout, art therapy gives space to explore what’s beneath the surface.
Rebuilding resilience. Through the creative process, teens practice problem-solving, patience, and flexibility, all skills that help them re-engage with school and life.
What a First Session with Jackie is Like
If your teen is skeptical about therapy, I make it as relaxed and approachable as possible. You don’t need to be “an artist” to benefit. Some days we splash paint to release stress, other days we might doodle, collage, or work with clay. I provide all the materials, and there’s no pressure to create anything perfect.
Our sessions are guided by what your teen needs that day. Sometimes we talk while making art, sometimes the art speaks for itself. My role is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where your teen feels accepted exactly as they are.
Why Parents in Guelph Choose Art Therapy with Jackie Ferris at Niilo Wellness
As a parent, you want your teen to feel better, but you also want to know they’re in good hands. At Niilo Wellness in Guelph, I specialize in working with pre-teens, teens, and young adults who struggle with:
Anxiety and depression
School refusal
Low self-esteem
Relationship and family challenges
Perfectionism
Being bullied
Because I’m a psychotherapy intern, my sessions are available at a reduced rate of $80/hr, making support more accessible for families. Further Sliding Scale Options may also be available - if $10 is all you can afford, so be it!
A Gentle Next Step
If your teen has been refusing talk therapy, art therapy could be the alternative that helps them open up and start healing without the pressure of finding the right words.
I offer a free 15-minute introductory session, so you and your teen can see if it feels like a good fit. There’s no commitment, just a chance to explore something new together.
You can reach me at jackie.ferris@niilowellness.ca or book directly through the link below.
Sometimes, words aren’t enough. Art can do the heavy lifting.
For a full listing of the Niilo Wellness Therapist accepting new clients, and to explore their profiles, visit our Guelph Therapist listing here
Jackie Ferris is a Nillo Wellness Student Art Therapist who provides in-person therapy in Guelph for all Individuals (aged 10+) including Adults. Jackie helps overwhelmed but ready-for-change humans use art therapy to explore emotions, unlock creativity, and reconnect with who they truly are.
As an Intern Jackie offers Reduced Rate Sessions as well as Sliding Scale options. To explore working with Jackie browse through her Bio and see her availability here!
You deserve to be heard, understood, and supported - At Niilo Wellness, we aim to do that!
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The author is not liable for any misuse or misinterpretation of the information in this article.
Your mental well-being is important. Always seek the advice of a qualified mental health provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your mental health.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, please reach out to a professional immediately. In Ontario, you can contact the Talk Suicide Canada Service at 9-8-8 or 1-833-456-4566 for support 24/7, or ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600 for mental health and addiction services.
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