Sarah Leyes, B.Ed., RCAT, RP (she/her)

It is my privilege and passion to support children and their families. I joyfully opened Art Therapy, Art Smart in 2011. My great-grandfather, who was orphaned at age 4, profoundly influenced my career path with his words, “Family is the most important thing in life.”

I have been working with children, youth and families in various teaching and counselling roles since 1992. My approach to art therapy is “phenomenological,” meaning that I am attentive to what is expressed in the art as reflecting the lived experience of the artist. As a clinical supervisor, I am honoured to mentor, encourage, and collaborate with other therapists on their journey.

In my free time I enjoy walking, training and playing with my golden retriever, Violet-Rose, who is working on her obedience and therapy skills to, one day, join the practice. Another favourite activity is designing cozy, fun spaces where creativity, play and authentic connections can thrive.

College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) – Registered Psychotherapist
Academy of Interpersonal Psychotherapy – Certified Interpersonal Psychotherapist
Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) – Registered Canadian Art Therapist
Kutenai Art Therapy Institute (KATI) – Graduate Diploma in Art Therapy
Nipissing University – Bachelor of Education
University of Windsor – Bachelor of Arts – Major in Visual Arts, Minor in Psychology