Art therapy is the combination of applying fine art materials, processes and tools to psychotherapy theories in order to help learn more about the self. Art making is a way of experiencing, growing and learning about the human condition, through a tangible, hands-on activity. Art therapy is used in a variety of settings. Art therapy is often used to gain a perspective into an individual's challenges and strengths. Using art materials and techniques combined with a developmental and psychological understanding of the individual. Art therapy is for everyone and those interested need not have ANY art experience whatsoever, just a willingness to explore and grow.
Some ways in which art therapy can help you include:
The American Art Therapy Association (www.arttherapy.org) defines art therapy as:
"Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art
making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of
individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process
involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and
problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behaviour, reduce stress,
increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight. Art therapy
integrates the fields of human development, visual art (drawing, painting,
sculpture, and other art forms), and the creative process with models of
counseling and psychotherapy."
Some ways in which art therapy can help you include:
- acquisition of coping skills
- defining roles/relationships
- establishing boundaries
- frustration tolerance
- healthy communication
- learning about the self and others
- mindfulness
- organizational skills
- planning
- problem-solving
- relaxation
- reminiscing
- wellness
The American Art Therapy Association (www.arttherapy.org) defines art therapy as:
"Art therapy is a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art
making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of
individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process
involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and
problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behaviour, reduce stress,
increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight. Art therapy
integrates the fields of human development, visual art (drawing, painting,
sculpture, and other art forms), and the creative process with models of
counseling and psychotherapy."