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Madelyn Perera – LPCC & ATR-P

Clinical Therapist
(she/they)

What Working w/ Me Looks Like

My work centers around safety and authenticity. This can look like a nervous system temp check before poking something tender together, focusing on reminding the body we are safe in space together, and meeting your honest capacity where you’re at. In this space I view my role as a mirror and guide as we work in collaboration together. Often I might reflect back to you what might feel hidden in the weeds of it all, so that we can explore ways to disrupt unhelpful patterns together. I balance holding a space that serves as a strong container (somewhere safe to open things up, and close them before leaving), while also using the container to, “do the hard thing,” in the safety of our space.You decide the direction we go. I am here to point out blind spots and cheer you on along the way. My ultimate goal in our work is for you to build a stronger relationship of trust and care for self that feels like coming home.

Areas of Focus 

  • Person-Led/ Collaborative Approach
  • Art Therapy as a Container 
  • Somatic (in-your-body) Work
  • Systems Perspective
  • Science-Based & Nervous System
  • Experiential “Here-and-Now” Work
  • Trauma-Informed 

Who Most Appreciates Work w/ Me

People who enjoy their work with me most, are often those wanting something different and open to the challenge of practicing change together.  I work well with a variety of people, from someone seeking a space to rebuild safety in their relationships through baby steps, to those in a significant life transition who want a grounded space to land in while they navigate the ups and downs of life. I serve a variety of ages, including folks from elementary school age, all the way through to folks who are post-retirement.

Okay.. But What is Art Therapy?

Let’s get one thing out of the way first, you do not need to be “good” at making art for art therapy to be a meaningful practice for you! Art therapy is about using the art process as a way to communicate when you’re feeling stuck, practice a skill in the safety of the process, and build connections between both sides of the brain (no, really! It’s backed by science!) that allows for healing in a different way. Some examples might be scribbling or ripping paper as part of the process, or even looking at a piece together and seeing what you’re drawn to.

Please note: While I am proud of my heritage, I am not currently fluent in Spanish. While I continue to rebuild my connection with the language, please refer to Ashley Marin for bilingual services.