I am often asked “What is Art Therapy?”

So to answer this question, I have tried to sum it up in a few short paragraphs. 

Art therapy is much more than the current trend of adult colouring books would have you believe.

It is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental and emotional well-being.

There are two parts to art therapy- Art AS therapy and Art IN therapy.

Art AS therapy is where the process of creating and self-expression is therapeutic in itself.  This is the form of creativity that we all participate in at some time, whether it is cooking, painting, knitting, gardening, building, colouring in etc.

Art IN therapy is where the therapist provides the client with particular activities to help them gain greater insight into what is happening in their lives. An art therapist uses both of these forms of therapy to help people resolve emotional issues, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and awareness.

The nice thing about art therapy is that ANYONE can do it!
Art therapists work with people of all ages: individuals, families, groups and communities. As art therapy is not traditional “talk” therapy, people with limited communication skills (eg. children, people with disabilities, people suffering from deep emotional hurts or trauma) are able to access it.  Art therapists utilise many forms of creativity… such as painting, drawing, photography, collage or sculpture, to help their clients connect and gain insight.

You don’t need to be artistic or have any artistic ability to benefit from art therapy. The goal is not to create a masterpiece, but to reflect on the process and the insights gained from creating.

Art therapists are trained to counsel people to recognise the feelings underlying thoughts and actions through their creativity and art making (however that looks for them).  They do not interpret the art work, but ask the client questions that help to bring clarity and understanding.

Relationships play a vital part in art therapy- the relationship between the client and therapist, the connection with others (in group or family therapy), and the connection with self and the creative experience, all play a part.  

If you are interested in learning more about art therapy, the workshops that The Cr3ative Space have on offer or to book yourself in for a session, why not get in touch.