519: Expressive Arts Therapy + Trauma | Dr. Cathy Malchiodi

519: Expressive Arts Therapy + Trauma | Dr. Cathy Malchiodi

March 17, 2026 · 54 min

About this episode

Dr. Cathy Malchiodi discusses the transformative power of expressive arts therapy in healing from trauma.

This week I'm sharing my recent interview with Dr. Cathy Malchiodi, a leader in the trauma, expressive arts and art therapy fields. In our conversation Cathy explores the transformative power of expressive arts therapy in healing from traumatic experiences.She discusses the evolution of arts-based approaches, the importance of movement and sensory processing, and the distinctions between art therapy and expressive arts therapy. Cathy Malchiodi emphasizes the need for therapists to create safe environments and engage in expressive practices themselves. She discusses the Circle of Capacity, a concept she created in response to the Window of Tolerance concept from Dr. Daniel Siegel's work. The discussion also touches on the role of mindfulness and the significance of small moments of safety in therapeutic settings. An internationally known psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist, Dr. Cathy Malchiodi has helped shape the field of traumatic stress through her decades of work with children, adults, families, and communities. Cathy is the author of numerous publications including several bestselling books that have become standards in the fields of expressive arts therapy, art…

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Host: Laura Reagan

Guest: Dr. Cathy Malchiodi

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Trauma-Informed Practices and Expressive Arts Therapy Institute

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