Stephanie Leftwich-Needham, ATR-BC, LMHC

I spent many years trying to figure out a way to balance my deep desire to help people with my strong need for artistic expression. A love of stories led to studies in English and then teaching Rhetoric and Writing at the college level. While I enjoyed crafting language and analyzing texts, engaging with my students was most fulfilling. Time spent in Women Writing for (a) Change circles showed me the healing power of creative writing. I learned to facilitate groups that were highly therapeutic and decided to go a step further by becoming a therapist. Art therapy allows me to help people find healing through compassionate creativity, and I can happily say that I’ve finally found work that I truly love.

I have experience working across the age range and with a variety of needs. I find it particularly fulfilling to work with those who are moving through trauma, loss, and life transitions. And, I’m passionate about working with military families and veterans. As a Navy spouse and a mother, I understand the challenges of impermanence, how frequent moves and deployments disrupt family dynamics, and the impact of service.

Master of Science, Art Therapy and Counseling Eastern Virginia Medical School

Master of Arts, English Old Dominion University

Member, American Art Therapy Association
President, Evergreen Art Therapy Association (Washington state chapter)

My Office —
3501 NW Lowell Street, Suite 202
Silverdale, Washington 98383
(360) 900-1319