Nico Santamorena is an Art Therapist who works with neurodivergent and autistic young people with a kind, affirming, therapeutic stance.

Nico Santamorena, LCAT-LP

Art Therapist

In-person in Cold Spring

Accepting New Clients

Nico’s holistic, relational approach to therapy fosters a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identities and experiences without judgment. They encourage self-exploration and acceptance through a person-centered lens, integrating client interests, play, art therapy, and mindfulness to meet the unique needs of each client. Nico is passionate about embracing neurodiversity, LGTBQ+ issues, and reducing shame. Nico believes strongly in the power of art therapy to promote healing and self-acceptance, and is dedicated to fostering a sense of empowerment, striving to help clients discover their strengths and build resilience through creativity.

Education and Certifications

MA in Art Therapy from New York University
BFA in Anthropology from Purchase College State University of New York

Therapeutic Crisis Intervention training (TCI) from Cornell University

Specialties

Art Therapy
Children and Adolescents
Neurodiversity: Autism and ADHD
LGBTQ+
Mindfulness-based practices
DBT skills

Favorite Resources

Neurodivergent Insights

Family Connections: BPD/Emotion Dysregulation Program

Trevor Project Resources

Child Mind Institute

Insurance Nico can accept

“Art therapy embraces different ways of understanding, letting our creativity express truth. Art making allows for a deeper connection to our emotional world, helping cultivate our awareness and openness.”

This picture is something that matters to me

This painting expresses what I feel is the value in art therapy, connecting to your truest self and nurturing the less acknowledged parts of you through experimentation. Looking inward, holding space for difficult experiences, and expressing them authentically is essential to well-being. Through exploring ourselves creatively, we open our eyes to possibilities we may not have considered. Art heals, it invites us to play and imagine more; more connection, more balance, more understanding, and more acceptance.