Episode Guest: Becca Joy – Traveling Muralist, Art Therapist, and Mental Health Advocate
In this episode of B+, Krista Gregg sat down with the incredibly talented Becca Joy to talk about the intersection of creativity and mental health. Becca is not only a gifted muralist, but also a trained art therapist. She shares her insights on using art as a tool for self-awareness, resilience, and trauma recovery.
Here are some of the biggest takeaways from our talk:
1. Art Therapy Is More Than Just Art
Becca defines art therapy as “an integrative mental health profession”—not a hobby, but a trained approach to healing. Art therapists are educated in mental health disorders and therapeutic techniques, using art as a tool to help people process trauma, build coping skills, connect with others, and cultivate self-awareness.
“We use art to facilitate the creative process… to help people build resilience, to connect with themselves, and to facilitate positive change.” — Becca Joy
2. It’s Not About Being a Good Artist
One of the most powerful truths Becca shared: the effectiveness of art therapy doesn’t depend on artistic skill—it depends on your willingness to participate. In fact, perfectionism can sometimes get in the way.
“I’ve seen people who are amazing artists struggle in art therapy because they’re focused on making something pretty… and others who don’t consider themselves artists thrive because they’re fully invested in the process.”
3. Your Progress Is in the Paint
Art therapy allows for visible transformation. Over time, clients may notice they use more color, more movement, or more confidence in their work—signs of emotional growth.
“It’s not about my art got better. It’s: ‘I used more color this time.’ Or ‘I was bolder in my marks.’ That shows healing.”
4. You Can’t Rush an ‘Aha’ Moment
Some sessions feel like magic. Others are slow and steady. Both are valid. Becca reminded us that real change takes time, and that the most meaningful breakthroughs often happen when the client is simply ready.
“Sometimes the stars align. You pick the right directive, they’re in the right headspace… and it feels like hope is restored.”
5. Self-Care Is About Creating Space—Not Adding Pressure
This one hit home for me. Becca shared that instead of making self-care another task on your to-do list, think of it as expanding yourself. It’s not a burden—it’s a return to yourself.
“It’s not about eliminating yourself. It’s about expanding yourself.”
6. You Don’t Need to Hang It on the Wall
Not all art is meant to be seen. And that’s okay. Whether you’re painting, knitting, crocheting, journaling, or even collecting objects from a nature walk—if it helps you feel grounded, it’s enough.
“Art journaling gives people a safe, contained place. You don’t have to explain it. You just create it.”
7. Art Can Support Trauma Recovery
For anyone navigating trauma, Becca offered this important reminder: Trauma is often stored visually, emotionally, and somatically. Sometimes we don’t need to talk through the pain—we just need a way to safely express it.
“Art gives us another language. For trauma, that can make all the difference.”
Find an Art Therapist
To find a qualified art therapist, visit one of the following resources. Look for credentials like ATR (Registered Art Therapist) or ATR-BC (Board-Certified Art Therapist).
Whether you’re someone who’s never picked up a paintbrush or you create for a living, this episode is a beautiful reminder that creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a pathway. And healing can happen one quiet moment at a time.
Listen to the full B+ Episode featuring Becca Joy
Connect with Becca:
Website: BeccaJoyFineArt.com
Instagram: @BeccaJoyFineArt
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