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Art Therapy: In Process

Ann Marie Hines and Matthew Brooks

Join Ann Marie Hines, MA, ATR-BC, LPC and Matthew Brooks, MA, LPC, ATR as they dive into conversations about all things art therapy, therapy life, parent life, and the messy, meaningful process of navigating today’s world. From creativity and counseling to the everyday realities of balancing family and professional life, this podcast explores the art—and heart—of being human.

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23 episodes
weekly
Avg 53 min
English

Episodes 23

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S1 · E50
Friday · 52 min
Art N'At
In this episode, Ann and Matt take a personal and playful tour through some of their favorite Pittsburgh spots for art, creativity, and art therapy-inspired experiences. Along the way, they talk about what it really looks like to balance life as a parent and an art therapist From favorite creative places around Pittsburgh to finding small moments of connection and creativity in everyday life, this conversation explores how art can support wellbeing, relationships, and self-expression at every stage of life
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S1 · E49
September 11 · 44 min
Helping the Helper
Ann and Matt explore what happens when the helpers of the world need help themselves. They discuss the challenges of navigating care, asking for support, and how therapists and other helping professionals can respond differently when the person seeking help is also a professional helper.
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S1 · E47
August 28 · 46 min
Clinical Wisdom with Dr. Ruff
Ann and Matt welcome Mary Ellen Ruff, PhD, for an insightful conversation packed with practical wisdom for therapists and mental health clinicians. Dr. Ruff shares why thoughtful, thorough note taking matters, what clinicians should know when becoming involved with the court system, and the challenges and responsibilities that can come with serving as a therapist in legal proceedings
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S1 · E46
August 21 · 44 min
Back to School
Ann and Matt are getting ready for back to school season! In this episode, they chat about the excitement and challenges of heading back to school, share thoughts on media and TV shows that kids are watching, and discuss how families can navigate screen time. Plus, they have some special announcements and updates you won’t want to miss. Flightless Bird Podcast- Youtube for Kids with Kaitlyn Becker HERE
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S1 · E45
August 14 · 52 min
Taking the Podcast to Charlotte
Ann and Matt welcome Elizabeth Hlavek, DAT, LCPAT, ATR-BC, an art therapy clinician, scholar, advocate, and AATA 2026 Conference Chair, for an inside look at the upcoming American Art Therapy Association conference in Charlotte this October. Elizabeth shares what attendees can look forward to at AATA2026, the importance of gathering together as a professional community, and the ideas and conversations shaping the future of art therapy. Ann and Matt also announce that they’ll be broadcasting live from the conference bringing listeners along for the experience with conversations, insights, and highlights from the event. Whether you’re attending AATA2026 or following along from home, this episode is a preview of what’s ahead and an invitation to be part of the conversation!
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S1 · E44
August 7 · 47 min
From Summer to School: Finding Balance
In this episode, Ann and Matt chat about the back to school transition and the mix of excitement, stress, and shifting routines that parents and therapists experience this time of year. They celebrate the exciting news that their children’s book, Moon Magic, is now available at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, while also sharing the less glamorous side of the profession keeping up with licensure requirements, continuing education, board certifications, and the ongoing pressure to stay current. It’s an honest conversation about juggling family life, professional growth, and finding moments to celebrate along the way.
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S1 · E43
July 31 · 53 min
Showing Up Through It All
Ann and Matt get real about the many sides of being a therapist. They talk about the full moon, navigating unexpected crisis calls from clients, and the advice they wish every new clinician could hear. They also share what it’s like to experience unexpected challenges in their own personal lives while continuing to show up for clients and manage their businesses. From boundaries and balance to the emotional realities of the work, this conversation is an honest look at what it means to be a therapist while also being human.
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S1 · E42
July 24 · 42 min
Characters, Creativity & Kid Chaos
In this episode, Ann and Matt take a nostalgic journey through the TV shows that shaped who they are, exploring the characters that stayed with them long after the credits rolled. They discuss how storytelling influences our values, sparks creativity, and helps us make sense of the world. The conversation also dives into the role of characters in art therapy, how creating and connecting with fictional characters can help children and adults process emotions, build resilience, and tell their own stories in meaningful ways. Of course, no parenting podcast would be complete without a few surprise guest appearances from the kids in the background. Their interruptions are a reminder that real life rarely happens in silence and that’s exactly the beauty of it.
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S1 · E41
July 17 · 53 min
The Motivation to Make
In this conversation, Ann and Matt explore what fuels the creative process and why making art is often less about waiting for inspiration and more about following curiosity. They reflect on the motivations that drive artists, the challenges of creating in everyday life, and why embracing the weird can lead to the most meaningful work.
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S1 · E40
July 10 · 58 min
The Friendship Shift
In this episode, Ann and Matt explore the evolving nature of friendships throughout different stages of life. The conversation also examines the lasting effects of the COVID and social media on how people meet, sustain, and perceive friendships, including increased isolation, shifting communication patterns, and heightened comparison. Throughout the episode, Ann and Matt share personal stories alongside professional insights, offering practical strategies they use in therapy to help clients navigate loneliness, build authentic relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and foster deeper connections in today’s increasingly digital world
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S1 · E39
July 3 · 59 min
Raising Kids Who Talk: Safety Starts with Conversation
In this episode, Ann and Matt explore what it means to keep kids safe both as parents and as therapists. They discuss how to navigate difficult but necessary conversations with children about safety, boundaries, emotions, and the world around them. Drawing from their unique perspectives, they examine the differences between parenting and being a therapist, the challenges of wearing both hats, and how to build trust so kids feel comfortable coming to the adults in their lives. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or mental health professional, this conversation offers practical insights and reassurance for fostering resilience, open communication, and emotional safety in children.
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S1 · E38
June 26 · 50 min
The Stories We Grew Up With
In this episode Ann and Matt explore the psychology of fairytales, the deeper meaning behind children’s stories, and the books that helped shape who they are. From the symbolism and emotional truths hidden in classic tales to the comfort, imagination, and life lessons found in favorite childhood books, this conversation looks at why stories matter so much especially for kids. Along the way, they share personal favorites, reflect on the books that stayed with them, and discuss how fairytales and children’s literature can help us make sense of feelings, fears, and the human experience.
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S1 · E37
June 19 · 50 min
Therapists Off the Clock
In this episode of Art Therapy in Process, Ann and Matt share some of their favorite weird and unexpected therapist stories, chat about their children’s book Moon Magic, explore how therapists actually socialize outside of work, and wander through plenty of random tangents along the way. From creativity and connection to the strange moments that make therapist life memorable, this conversation is equal parts insightful, funny, and delightfully off track.
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S1 · E36
June 12 · 1 hr
The Art of Finding Your Path
This week on Art Therapy in Process, we’re joined by David Gussak for a conversation that weaves through art therapy, career journeys, and the unexpected paths that shape our work. Dave shares his experiences pioneering art therapy within correctional settings and discusses the unique role creativity can play in environments often defined by restriction and isolation. Along the way, we explore how each of us found our way into the field of art therapy, the mentors and moments that influenced our careers, and how we somehow all ended up sharing our work on social media. As always, the conversation takes a few delightful detours, with reflections on professional identity, connection, creativity, and the stories that emerge when therapists get together.
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S1 · E35
June 5 · 1 hr 5 min
The Art of Showing Up
This week on Art Therapy in Process, Ann and Matt explore what it means to navigate life and work with a Type B personality in a world that often celebrates hustle and perfection. From spontaneous adventures and embracing flexibility to building a strong support system, they discuss the vital role friendship, community, and authentic connection play in personal and professional growth. The conversation also dives into the impact of social media on relationship building and how it can sometimes complicate genuine connection. Join us for a candid, relatable discussion about support, belonging, and finding your people along the way.
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S1 · E34
May 29 · 55 min
Now What? Navigating Supervision and Networking After Art Therapy School
Matt and Ann discuss the transition from graduate school into professional life as art therapists, exploring the importance of supervision, mentorship, and building authentic connections within the art therapy community. They talk about navigating the uncertainty that can come after graduation, finding supportive supervisors, creating professional relationships, and learning how networking can feel more genuine and less intimidating. Through personal experiences and honest conversation, this episode highlights the value of community, continued growth, and staying connected while developing your identity as an art therapist.
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S1 · E33
May 22 · 51 min
The Stories That Shape Us
On this episode Ann and Matt have a conversation with Brianna Cox about our journeys to becoming art therapists, the role of community art, personal creative processes, and everything in between. Exploring creativity, connection, healing, and the many paths that lead us to this work.
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S1 · E32
May 15 · 53 min
Art & Awkward Moments
Matt and Ann dive into the chaos and comedy of therapist life from awkward client related nightmares to the wildly unexpected moments that somehow become normal when you work in mental health. They also talk dating, emotional baggage, vulnerability, and the weird transition from independence to letting people in. Mixed in with all of that: creative outlets, humor as survival, and finding ways to stay grounded in a world that feels increasingly overstimulating and strange. Equal parts therapist talk, personal stories, and “how is this our life?”
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S1 · E31
May 8 · 59 min
Behind the “I’m Fine” Mom Mask
On this episode of Art Therapy in Process, Ann Hines and Matt Brooks get real about the emotional weight of parenting, motherhood, masking, and trying to raise emotionally healthy kids while managing their own mental health. From overstimulation and mom guilt to emotional regulation, burnout, and the pressure to “do it right,” they unpack the invisible labor parents carry every day. They talk honestly about how therapists aren’t immune to overwhelm, why so many parents feel like they’re constantly performing stability, and how healing ourselves impacts the way we show up for our children. The conversation is validating, funny, chaotic, and deeply human . A reminder that perfect parenting doesn’t exist, but connection, repair, and self awareness matter more than perfection ever could.
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S1 · E30
May 1 · 50 min
Life as a Therapist: Boundaries, Vulnerability & Community Support
In this episode of Art Therapy in Process, Ann and Matt dive into the nuanced experience of dating as therapists. From managing professional identity outside the therapy room to balancing openness with healthy boundaries, they unpack the real-life dynamics that come with forming relationships in this field. The conversation also highlights the importance of feeling supported by peers, community, and partners and how that support can foster authenticity, connection, and growth. Expect honest reflections, a little humor, and the kind of insight that reminds you you’re not alone in the process.
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