Tattoo Art Therapy

288 South Lake Street, Gary, IN 46403

Tattoo Art Therapy is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Gary, Indiana, operating as a division of Sacred Transformations. Founded by Eric Dean Spruth in 2003, the organization was created to help people whose tattoos, brandings, or scars were forcibly received through experiences like sex trafficking or domestic abuse. Its work centers on transforming, minimizing, or erasing these unwanted marks, giving clients a fresh start through tattoo cover-up art and certified laser tattoo removal. Services also extend to military veterans seeking refreshed tattoos and to members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The approach here is rooted in art therapy rather than a typical studio experience, using tattoo design and laser removal as tools for emotional healing and empowerment. The mission emphasizes converting marks of past trauma into pieces that celebrate individuality, support sobriety, and mark personal growth. Tattoo Art Therapy welcomes people of every background, gender identity, sexuality, race, and faith, prioritizing those with the greatest mental health needs while excluding no one's story from consideration. Those under 18 may begin the interview and design process, though laser removal or cover-up work itself does not start until age 18.