ART THERAPY

"What is Art Therapy?"

Art Therapy (or Art Psychotherapy) uses art making as the main mode of communication to explore and work through emotional difficulties. In sessions, materials like pens, paint, or clay are used as a medium to address emotional issues which may be complex or confusing, but not  as diagnostic tool. Previous art experience is not required and there is no need to be creatively skilled. Sessions are not art lessons, instead they're based upon therapeutic boundaries and psychodynamic theory. In session, a qualified art therapist will work with the conscious and unconscious thought processes in art making process and any art work produced. It's the role of an art therapist to be impartial, understanding and to help you to explore your emotions whilst baring no judgement. Although an art therapist may offer information, it's not their role to tell you what actions to take, or what you should think or do. 

"Why Do People Seek Art Therapy?"

People seek art psychotherapy for various reasons, and the benefits can address a wide range of psychological, emotional, and social issues Each person is unique and so too are their reasons for seeking art therapy. Some examples of what some people tend to look for from art therapy include; Emotiontional expression and regulation, Trauma Processing, Self Exploration and Insight, Coping with Life Change and improving Communication Skills.

 It's important to note that people begin art therapy at different points on their journey. Some may be aware of the roots of their difficulties and for others this may be unknown. Some people also may find art therapy a less threatening way of communicating, rather than using verbal communication, whilst others may not physically have the ability to communicate through words due to health conditions.

"What Does a Session Involve?"

While establishing a therapeutic relationship together, the client may use materials such as; paint, pencils, pens, clay, sand, objects, toys or puppets as an alternative to only verbal communication. Art Therapy relies on a combination of elements including the process of art making, spoken words, and the safe and confidential environment. Sessions are majoritively self led, rather than the client being directed by the therapist; clients are encouraged to use whatever creative materials they are drawn to (no pun intended). Together, we would begin with an initial meeting to better understand your reasons for seeking therapy and to assess whether art therapy is the best approach, rather than another therapy. Some people only require support for a 6 weeks, whilst others may benefit from longer-term session plans. Sessions last 50 minutes and tend to be once a week at a regular time and day. 

"What Are The Benefits Of Attending Art Therapy?"

Research shows that art therapy has proven effective in helping with; stress reduction, anger management, developing interpersonal relationships, and increasing self-esteem and awareness. Often, having art therapy as a space where the client can gain a different perspective can allow the client to feel calmer, more grounded. Art therapy also as well as improving their focus and thought clarity in order to work through difficulties with greater ease. For some people expressing raw and vulnerable feelings may feel intimidating or exposing. Engaging with art materials in art therapy can allow the client and therapist to "look at" the art making process and art made, rather than physically "looking at" the client; allowing unconscious thought processes to be observed in a less invasive way.