Overview
Bee True Studio, located in Nanaimo, provides expressive arts therapy and therapeutic counselling for children, teens, and adults. Founder Danielle Dickson, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and Certified Expressive Arts Therapist, integrates talk therapy with creative modalities including visual art, clay, movement, sound, and writing. Her approach is relational, trauma-informed, and client-centered, emphasizing safety and authentic expression. Sessions are available in person or virtually, and a free 20-minute consultation allows potential clients to explore whether the practice suits their needs. No prior artistic experience is necessary, and the studio acknowledges the ancestral lands of the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, and Coast Salish nations. With over nine years of experience and professional credentials that may be covered by extended health plans, Bee True Studio creates space for healing through creativity and self-discovery.
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm |
| Tuesday | Closed | – |
| Wednesday | Closed | – |
| Thursday | Open | 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm |
| Friday | Closed | – |
| Saturday | Closed | – |
| Sunday | Closed | – |
Studio in Details
Overview
Bee True Studio, located in Nanaimo, offers expressive arts therapy and therapeutic counselling for individuals of all ages. Founded in 2019 by Danielle Dickson, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and Certified Expressive Arts Therapist, the practice integrates creative processes with talk therapy. Dickson’s approach is relational, dignity-driven, and trauma-informed, drawing on eco and somatic practices as well as feminist values. The intentional space she creates is inspired by process-based art making. She respectfully acknowledges the unceded traditional lands of the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, and Coast Salish nations. Sessions are available in person or virtually, and a free 20-minute consultation helps new clients explore whether the practice suits their needs. No prior artistic experience is required.
Therapeutic Services and Approach
Expressive arts therapy combines psychology with creative modalities to help clients access emotions that are difficult to verbalize. Sessions may involve painting, drawing, clay, movement, sound, or writing, depending on what feels right for the individual. For some, talking is the primary mode; for others, art materials open new pathways. Dickson specializes in this approach, supporting clients who feel stuck, inhibited, or curious. Her practice also incorporates somatic and eco-focused techniques, trauma-informed mindfulness, and a client-centered perspective. With over nine years of experience and credentials with the Association of Cooperative Counsellors of Canada, sessions may be covered by extended health plans. A free 20-minute consultation is available to discuss goals and schedule a first session.
For Children, Teens, and Adults
Bee True Studio supports clients across age groups. For children aged 3 to 10, play-based therapy uses puppets, games, dolls, and art to help them express feelings and navigate social or emotional challenges. Older children, teens, and adults engage with expressive arts tailored to their needs. The studio also hosts occasional workshops, such as a weekend immersion on relationship patterns and a group workshop on rest and creative expression, both inclusive of all supplies. Group sizes are small, fostering community connection. Dickson’s own creative practice as a multi-disciplinary artist informs her therapeutic work, emphasizing authenticity and resilience. The studio welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, creating a safe space for healing through creativity and self-discovery.