Heartspace Counselling and Art Therapy
compassion connecting creativity
What is Open Studio?
Originating in art therapy and community art spaces, Open Studio is a creative practice that provides a relaxed, non-structured environment where individuals can explore art-making.
Here, you are free to explore with materials, follow your intuition, and create at your own pace. The process is about discovery, not perfection.
Experience radical hospitality and the therapeutic power of creativity in a communal space for reflection, expression, and connection.
Come as you are and connect with your creativity and intuition in a shared, supportive space.
Heartspace Open Studio
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Our Open Studio is a self-directed experience, with gentle guidance available if desired.
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Bring your sketchbook, journal, or current craft project, or simply come to explore and create freely. You're also welcome to engage with Heartspace’s collection of resources for inspiration.
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We provide a variety of art and journalling materials, along with tea and light refreshments.
(Please let us know about any allergies or sensitivities during registration before attending any sessions.)
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This space encourages you to slow down, connect with your inner wisdom and creativity, and build strength through both self-expression and community support.
Benefits
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Creative expression as healing: Giving shape to feelings and stories that may be hard to express in words.
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Empowerment and growth: Reclaiming your narrative and cultivating inner strength.
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Community and connection: Being witnessed, encouraged, and supported by others in a safe space.
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Mindfulness and slowing down: Stepping out of daily busyness and finding presence through art-making.
**NEW**
Open Studio for Youth
(For ages 14-16.)
Facilitated by:
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Stephanie (Registered Clinical Counsellor & Registered Art Therapist)
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Rachel (Registered Social Worker & Therapeutic Arts Practitioner)
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Location: Heartspace Counselling and Art Therapy
Room 307, 304 West Cordova Street, Vancouver
(5-minute walk from Waterfront Station)
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Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am
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Dates: May 16, 23, 30; June 6, 13, 20, 26
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Fees: By donation (suggested $10-20 per session)
Note: Parental/guardian consent required.
For inquires and registration, please email: stephanie@heartspace-counselling.com
Common questions:
Why is Heartspace offering Open Studio?
Open Studio embraces the idea that art is inherently therapeutic and a tool for self-expression and personal growth. Our mission is to make therapeutic art more accessible. Whether you're here to explore, release, or simply be, you'll find support, community, and freedom to honor your process.
What materials are provided?
We offer a wide range of materials to support your creativity, including acrylic paints, watercolours, pencils, coloured pencils, markers, ink pens, various papers, stamps, and washi tape. You’re also welcome to bring your own materials, sketchbook, journal, or ongoing craft projects to work on.
Do I need to have any art experience to join?
No prior experience is necessary! Our Open Studio is a welcoming space for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists. The process is self-directed, and gentle guidance is available from our friendly facilitators.
What do I need to know before attending?
Engaging in creative work may sometimes bring up unexpected emotions or memories, which can be uncomfortable or distressing. However, it can also lead to personal growth, emotional release, increased self-awareness, more coping skills, and a greater sense of connection with oneself and others.
Who are the facilitator(s)?
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Stephanie Ng (she/her), Founder of Heartspace Counselling and Art Therapy, Registered Clinical Counsellor, Registered Art Therapist, Certified Play Therapist
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Rachel Aussem (she/her), Registered Social Worker,
Therapeutic Arts Practitioner, Master of Social Work Student. -
Miranda Bakonyi (she/her), Counselling Art Therapy Intern,
Master of Counselling Psychology: Art Therapy Student
Stephanie and Rachel co-facilitate Open Studio for youth;
Miranda and Rachel co-facilitate Open Studio for adults.
Is this Art Therapy?
Open Studio is inspired by the principles of Art Therapy, but it is not a form of therapy. We encourage participants to bring any personal material requiring deeper exploration to their individual therapy sessions instead. Unlike clinical approaches that focus on individual goals and treatment plans, Open Studio is centered around creativity, self-expression, and community. It embraces the concept of "Art as Therapy": the idea that the creative process itself can support personal insight and emotional well-being.
How can I register for Open Studio?
For adult participants, we kindly ask you to register for yourself on EventBrite.
For youth participants, we will provide registration details including
a guardian/parental consent form to complete ahead of attendance.
For inquiries and more information, please email stephanie@heartspace-counselling.com
What if I am interested in Art Therapy?
If you’re interested in Art Therapy with a practitioner trained in Art Therapy, we’re happy to connect with you, and answer any questions during a complimentary 20-minute consultation.
Rachel is offering Low-cost Counselling and Expressive Arts Therapy 1:1 sessions for children (aged 5+), youth, and adults.
What past participants said:
"The space was well equipped and inviting. Stephanie took the time to create warmth with tea and some snacks. It was a comfortable environment that I felt able to be myself in."
— Sarah
"I appreciate the calming and inviting space that nurtures creativity to unfold. I found it to be a very calming and introspective experience that allowed me to slow down and reflect."
— LN
"The studio has a calming, cozy atmosphere that feels very welcoming. The guidance was gentle, and the whole experience felt relaxed, almost like a casual hangout, without any pressure for conversation. I felt completely at ease, even in silence, and the overall vibe was soothing. I really appreciated the freedom and space, having dedicated time carved out to create on a blank page without the pressure of needing to make ‘good’ art."
— J. C.
"Creatively refreshing!! I liked the huge selection of mixed media options, the ambience of company and non-directive guidance. It was so nice to connect with folks and ease into the weekend. Thank you for accommodating my needs and sharing your space!"
— Linda
"It gave me a place to ground and reflect at my own pacing. I liked exploring myself at my own pace through the tools."
— Omar
"I liked the collection of various oracle cards. Just looking at them was so much fun! They gave me inspiration."
"It was a precious time to connect with myself. Stepping away from work and assignments to freely express myself was truly enjoyable. The welcoming atmosphere among everyone participating also made me feel very relaxed."
— Arisa
"I was able to look inside myself. Thanks to [Stephanie], I came to like expressing myself through art. I liked the friendly atmosphere and clear explanations. I had a great time. Thank you."
— Akiko
"I liked the ease of the container. It was stress-free and opened up my mind to a new outlet."
— AF
"[The facilitators] went above and beyond to make sure I felt comfortable and aware of all they offered and allowed me to feel safe to be vulnerable. Can't wait to join again."
"I feel so fortunate to have a space to express, create and heal that is so warm, welcoming and nourishing! I liked the plethora of materials, the heartfulness of the hosts, the curated snacks and the calm vibes. Thank you for all that you do! I’m so grateful for this space and your loving care!"
— Seda
(All art and feedback shared with participants' consent.)
"To create is to live twice."
— Albert Camus
"Expression is the restorative order of life."
— Cathy Malchiodi
"It is in playing and only in playing that the individual child or adult is able to be creative and use the whole personality, and it is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self."
— David Winnicott, Playing & Reality
"Through creativity, the goal of life is to allow one's true self and individuality to blossom."
— Diane Ehrensaft