Hello! My name is Teresa Jennings – most people call me “Terri”. I am a licensed professional counselor, psychotherapist and board-certified art therapist. As a helping professional, it is my hope to provide a safe, judgment-free space for people to express, explore and grow.
As a creative but shy kid from a working family – I often felt like I was swimming against the current. I wanted to be an artist and find a way to use my abilities to help others. Not infrequently, I’d hear, “That’s not practical” or “is just not realistic.” I’ve since realized the experiences that challenge us often create our path.
Education
I started my studies in art at a local art center – then at Philadelphia College of Art night school when I was in high school. I later worked while I put myself through school. I attended Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) – completing the 4-year certificate program in fine arts – and receiving a European traveling scholarship and additional year of study. I went on to complete my studies at University of the Arts (U/Arts) – getting my Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a Concentration in Art Therapy. By this point, I was sure – I would continue my studies in Art Therapy at Hahnemann University (now Drexel) – and earned my Master of Arts in Art Therapy. I obtained my license (LPC) with the PA state board – and pursued my registration and board certification (ATR-BC) in art therapy from the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). I’ve been in the behavioral health field for over 25 years – working in various capacities and settings – learning how I work best and can better serve my clients. I continue to work as a therapist – and recently have honed in on what and how I want to practice – resulting in the concept of Healing Studio, LLC. On the personal front, I live and work in PA where my husband and I have raised our two children to adulthood. I continue to paint and make mixed media pieces in my home studio – and occasionally exhibit locally.
My Practice and Treatment Focus
What motivated me to open my own practice is what I’ve come to learn about what people want – and don’t want. Most people say they want to be seen, validated and heard. They want to feel better and be happier. They want discreet services where a professional will listen, empathize and validate their experiences. I’ve also learned that people do not want complicated processes, long waits, turnover, burned-out staff, rushed sessions, tons of paperwork and feeling ignored. This realization inspired me to open Healing Studio.
My therapeutic approach is person-centered, supportive and structured. I seek to destigmatize care and build a therapeutic rapport that is inclusive and respectful. I combine art therapy and verbal therapy flexibly. I work with a broad range of people – from preschool age children to adults. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices – and these approaches inform my efforts to help my clients. I work with people seeking to address stress, emotion regulation issues, self-esteem issues, depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, attention/focus issues, socialization issues, behavioral issues, family issues and day to day stressors.
email: tjennings@healingstudiopa.com
