How can Art Therapy help you or your child?
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses the process of making art to improve mental health and well-being. It invites individuals to explore and express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences through various art forms. Drawing, clay work, painting and sand play can all provide additional ways to communicate. There is no right or wrong way of creating art and the emphasis is not on the artistic skill or outcome but on the process and the individual's emotional and cognitive responses to the act of creating.
It is used as a therapeutic intervention for individuals of all ages who may be facing challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other emotional and psychological issues.
Benefits of Art Therapy
Self-Expression: Art therapy provides a non-verbal means of expressing thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. It allows individuals to communicate and explore their inner world creatively and encourages self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one's personal experiences.
Boosted Self-Esteem: Completing an artistic project and seeing tangible results can enhance a person's sense of accomplishment and self-worth. This can be particularly empowering for individuals struggling with low self-esteem.
Stress Reduction: Focusing on the creative process can divert attention from stressors and promote mindfulness. This can be particularly beneficial for managing anxiety and improving overall well-being.
Communication Skills: Art therapy can improve verbal and non-verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills through artistic expression. Exploring visual symbols and metaphors helps individuals convey complex feelings that may be challenging to express verbally.
Coping with Trauma: Art therapy provides a safe space for individuals to process and express trauma-related emotions, facilitating the healing process.
Improved Mood: Engaging in creative activities can trigger the release of endorphins, the brain's "feel-good" chemicals. This can contribute to an improved mood and a sense of joy.
Who can benefit?
Art therapy is for everyone. It is beneficial for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including those dealing with mental health challenges, life transitions, or simply seeking a creative and therapeutic outlet. No artistic skill is needed.
I work with people with a wide range of issues, but some of the more common issues that can be supported through art therapy are- anger, depression, trauma, stress anxiety and self esteem issues.
What does a typical session look like?
The sessions typically take place on a one to one basis for 50 minutes. Initially you will be introduced to the materials in the room and will then be invited chose any materials you may be interested in using. The focus is on your inner experience so the I will not direct you on what to make unless you feel you need some guidance. Sometimes in a session there may be no art-making at all — we may just talk and think together. Most often, though, there’s a combination of talking and art-making. And sometimes, the art-making and other non-verbal communication may take precedence, with much less talking. If art is being made in the session, I might then guide the individual in exploring their art and facilitate discussions that help process emotions and challenges.
At the end of the session I will keep the artwork and store it safely and confidentially. I will not show the work to anyone else.
