Who We Are
The Expressive Way is a center for expressive arts therapy, professional development, and creative connection. We believe healing is relational, embodied, and should be available to all. No art experience is ever needed. Come as you are!
Teresa Trout (she/her)
Teresa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Expressive Arts Therapist with a deep commitment to inclusive, trauma-informed, and creative healing. She specializes in working with individuals navigating identity transitions, relational complexity, and emotional overwhelm—including creatives, caregivers, and those living at the intersections of marginalization.
Teresa holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Expressive Arts Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and a B.A. in Visual Arts from UC San Diego. With over 20 years of experience in the arts and a decade in the mental health field, she weaves visual art, writing, movement, and narrative therapy into collaborative, somatic-centered care. Her work is rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful force for transformation—and that healing happens in connection.
As the founder of the Therapeutic Arts Alliance, Teresa envisions a space where expressive arts therapists and allied professionals can grow, create, and serve community together. She brings warmth, depth, and irreverent humor to everything she builds.
Paul Chaus (he/they)
Paul Chaus (he/they) is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Drama Therapist whose work combines clinical depth with creative expression. Drawing from years of experience in crisis intervention, school-based counseling, and community mental health, Paul supports clients navigating trauma, identity, and relational complexity with compassion and care.
Paul holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Drama Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and a B.F.A. in Theatre from the University of Utah. He has facilitated therapeutic work across diverse settings—from mobile crisis response teams in the Bay Area to intergenerational arts programs, schools, and stage-based interventions. His approach is grounded in psychodynamic and attachment theories, while integrating mindfulness, somatic awareness, parts work, and creative process.
As a queer clinician and former performer, Paul brings cultural humility, emotional intelligence, and presence to every therapeutic relationship. He creates spaces that welcome exploration, resilience, and joy—especially for those who may not feel fully reflected in traditional therapy.
Contact us
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