Ana Barrera Garza

LLPC, ATR-P (Provisional Registered Art Therapist)

Therapist

About Ana Barrera Garza

Hi, I’m Ana Barrera Garza—a counselor and art therapist who believes art has the power to express what words often can’t. Whether through painting, clay, collage, or conversation, I help clients explore their inner world and find new ways to understand, process, and heal.

Creativity isn’t about being an artist—it’s about expression. Sometimes it’s about drawing what you can’t say. Other times it’s about noticing how the colors you choose reflect your emotions. My goal is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can connect with yourself, uncover insight, and grow at your own pace.

I’m passionate about using both traditional talk therapy and art therapy to help clients navigate life’s challenges, whether that’s anxiety, trauma, grief, identity exploration, or relationships. My approach is client-centered and collaborative—we’ll work together to find what resonates for you, blending creativity, evidence-based methods, and a healthy dose of empathy.

🎨 How I Work

In sessions, I draw from multiple approaches including:

Art Therapy – Using creative expression as a pathway for healing and self-awareness.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Building awareness and grounding in the present moment.

Person-Centered Therapy – Meeting you where you are, with unconditional positive regard.

Solution-Focused and Brief Therapy – Helping you create small, realistic steps toward your goals.

Existential and Psychodynamic Techniques – Exploring meaning, purpose, and emotional insight.

Every person’s story is unique, and therapy should reflect that. Some days we’ll focus on processing emotions through creativity; other days, we’ll focus on concrete skills to help you manage stress, set boundaries, or rebuild confidence.

🌿 Who I Work With

I work with children, teens, and adults who are seeking to heal, grow, and reconnect with themselves. My specialties include:

Anxiety & Depression – Helping clients express emotions, manage symptoms, and find balance.

Trauma & PTSD – Using art and talk therapy to process experiences safely and gradually.

Grief & Loss – Creating space for honoring what’s been lost while cultivating resilience.

Family & Relationship Conflict – Strengthening communication, understanding, and connection.

Chronic Illness & Pain – Exploring coping tools and creative ways to restore a sense of self.

Neurodivergence & Autism Spectrum – Supporting self-expression and emotional regulation.

Cultural & Identity Exploration – Helping clients navigate belonging, change, and authenticity.

As someone who moved to the U.S. at a young age and speaks both English and Spanish, I understand firsthand how identity, culture, and life transitions can shape our experiences. I bring a multicultural perspective to therapy and deeply value the stories, beliefs, and strengths each client brings.

💡 Why Art Matters

Art therapy isn’t about the finished piece—it’s about the process. It gives emotions shape, color, and space to breathe. Whether you’re working through trauma, managing anxiety, or simply wanting to reconnect with your creativity, art can help you find meaning and peace in the moments between words.

Over the years, I’ve seen how creativity unlocks something powerful—it helps people see themselves differently, process pain safely, and discover strength they didn’t know they had. I consider it a privilege to witness that transformation.

❤️ My Philosophy

Healing doesn’t always have to be heavy. Sometimes it looks like painting with abandon, sometimes it’s sharing a laugh during a difficult moment, and sometimes it’s just showing up and sitting with your emotions. I believe humor, compassion, and authenticity are as essential to therapy as the techniques themselves.

I strive to create a space that feels human—where you can explore freely and know that every part of your story is welcome. Therapy is a journey, and it’s an honor to walk alongside my clients as they learn, create, and grow.

🌻 Outside the Office

When I’m not in session, you’ll likely find me sketching, exploring local art spaces, or spending time in nature. I love connecting with community, creating, and celebrating the small, beautiful moments that make life meaningful.

At Ellie Mental Health in West Bloomfield, we believe therapy should be approachable, empowering, and just a little bit bold. Whether you’re new to therapy or returning after some time away, I’m here to make it a supportive, creative, and deeply personal experience.

If you’re ready to explore your story through art, reflection, and conversation, let’s get started. Schedule today and begin your journey toward healing and self-discovery.