S1 · Ep 19: Art Therapy In Ottawa — When Creativity Helps Words Emerge | Elena Kourounis | The MindSpa Podcast

Send us Fan MailWhen words feel difficult to find, creative expression can offer another way to communicate.In this episode of The MindSpa Podcast, Tina Wilston speaks with Elena Kourounis, an art therapist-in-training at MindSpa Mental Health, about how art therapy can support emotional regulation, insight, and connection across different ages and life experiences.Elena explains that art therapy focuses on the process rather than artistic skill. Through drawing, colour, and other creative materials, individuals may access thoughts and emotions that can be harder to express through conversation alone. The simple act of choosing materials or engaging in guided creative prompts can also support nervous system regulation, encouraging calm, reflection, and self-awareness.The conversation traces Elena’s professional journey from pastry chef to classroom teacher and eventually into the field of therapy, where she now integrates creativity and counselling to support emotional wellbeing.Tina Wilston and Elena Kourounis also discuss who may benefit from art therapy, including people who feel they are not artistic, those who find traditional talk therapy challenging, and individuals navigating trauma, eating disorders, addiction recovery, or significant life transitions. In couples and family settings, visual exercises can help shift communication away from blame and toward empathy and understanding.This episode highlights how creative expression can open new pathways for emotional exploration and strengthen connection in relationships and within oneself.Connect With  Elena Kourounis : Website | Instagram  | LinkedIn The MindSpa PodcastThoughtful conversations about mental health, relationships, identity, healing, grounded in clinical expertise and steady human insight.HostsTina Wilston, M.Ed., Registered Psychotherapist Co-Owner, MindSpa Mental Health CentreLinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookMichelle Massunken, MSW, RSWCo-Owner, MindSpa Mental Health CentreLinkedIn, Instagram, FacebookMindSpa Mental Health CentreOttawa - Kanata & Gloucesterthemindspa.caLinkedIn, instagramListen onApple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube