As a mental health therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia, I strongly support Art Therapy Licensure within Virginia. Research shows that Art Therapy is one of the most effective interventions for treating trauma in children, adolescents, and adults as it addresses the "right brain" in a way that traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy cannot. In addition, Virginia NEEDS more child and adolescent friendly therapists, and most art therapists are trained to work with these populations. Art therapy is extremely effective in working with our young people. Art Therapy is not "just coloring and crafts." It is a very expensive and respectable training earned at credible university; a more intensive training than traditional mental health therapists receive. Art Therapists in Virginia should be highly regarded as the specialized trauma professionals that they are as well as more accessible to Virginia residents.