LICENSED ART THERAPIST
Psychotherapist specializing in treatment of children, adolescents & young adults
My wait list is currently closed for the Summer. Referrals from doctors and or therapists may be accepted on a case by case basis.
JANIA OTTO
LCAT
ATR-BC
Specializing in Mental Health & Well-Being of Children Ages 4-18 & Young Adults
Is your child struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, high-functioning autism, trauma or difficult life changes? I’m a licensed and board-certified art therapist, with clinical experience working with children ages 4-18 and their families. I utilize art and play therapy techniques, as well as talk-therapy approaches such as CBT, psychodynamic, and strength-based. I also offer in-person and online counseling sessions for young adults who are navigating transitioning to the working world or the challenges of college life.
Some of the concepts typically explored in treatment are: developing coping skills, perspective taking, identifying strengths, practicing social skills, self-expression/self-exploration, and parenting techniques. I'm a person-centered therapist seeking to support your family on your child's journey toward healing and self-discovery.
"Art can penetrate the deepest part of us where no words exist"-Eileen Miller
“Toys are children’s words and play is their language” -Garry Landreth
“Enter into children’s play and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet.” -Virginia Axline
ABOUT ME
Art Therapist, Educator & Artist
Welcome! I’m Jania Otto, a New York State Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and Board-Certified Art Therapist, based in Rochester, New York. I have spent the past 25 years working with children and young adults as an educator, mentor and now a psychotherapist. I am also an adjunct professor at Nazareth University teaching, mentoring and supervising graduate students in the Art Therapy Department.
I have clinical experience in utilizing both art and play therapy techniques with children and their families. I also utilize traditional therapy approaches such as: cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, and strength-based. I incorporate "talk therapy" into art and play modalities whenever possible to promote engagement and progress. I strive to provide a person-centered experience, adapting my therapeutic style and modality to best meet the needs of my clients and their families. When appropriate I bring my trained and certified therapy dog Oliver into sessions. I am currently offering in-person and telehealth appointments based on client needs and preferences. Please contact me so that I may learn how I can be helpful to your family.
MEET OLIVER THERAPY DOG
Animal Assisted Therapy
"Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms." -George Eliot, Victorian poet
According to Psychology Today, "Animals can provide a sense of calm, comfort, or safety and divert attention away from a stressful situation and toward one that provides pleasure. "Advocates of animal-assisted therapy say that developing a bond with an animal can help people develop a better sense of self-worth and trust, stabilize their emotions, and improve their communication, self-regulation, and socialization skills."
Oliver is my 3 year old 100 lb Bernedoodle. As of September of 2023 Oliver and I are a certified therapy team. Ollie is available to attend sessions, when his participation is therapeutically appropriate.
Parent consult to discuss treatment without client present
90 US dollars30 minute parent-only session in-person, video, or phone
55 US dollars
Treatment Approach & Payments
My treatment process involves seeing a smaller number of clients, thereby providing excellent service and care. Working with children typically necessitates a number of collateral contacts such as family members, teachers and other providers. My approach allows me the time and energy to collaborate on each client's care as needed.
PAYMENTS
I do not accept insurance at this time. The forms of payment I accept are: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, FSA & HSA, checks and cash. I can provide a super bill, but out of network reimbursement is dependent on individual insurance company policies.
