What is Art Therapy?
New to this whole idea? Let’s start with the basics.
Different Than An Art Lesson
Art therapy is not intended to improve your skills in a particular artistic medium or creative technique. It’s about using visual media as a conduit for you to explore and express your internal selves. You do not need to be a skilled artist to benefit from an art therapy session, just an interest to engage in the creative process.
Art Therapy Defined
Art Therapy provides a safe outlet for engaging with complex emotions. It uses art as means to help one speak the unspeakable and understand internal narratives in new or novel ways. Art therapy sessions are facilitated by a certified Art Therapist trained to use art as a tool to help you better understand yourself, to investigate your thoughts, emotions, and body sensations.
The Therapist’s Role
It’s not about interpreting your work, my role, as a certified Art Therapist, is to guide you in hands-on art-based practice that may help you to gain a fresh perspective. The creative process itself aims to provide a path to improved emotional and mental wellness.
Creativity as a therapeutic tool.
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At its core, art therapy uses creativity as an apparatus for healing in the therapeutic setting.
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The creative expression can serve as a non-verbal mode of communication, enabling you to express your emotions and better understand yourself.
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The therapeutic approach has roots in psychotherapy and focuses on art-making methods to heal and grow.
Mental health benefits
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Self Awareness
Build mindfulness skills to better understand your authentic self.
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Social Skills
Build stronger interpersonal skills by gaining insight into your sense of self.
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Emotional Regulation
Learn techniques to calm the body and mind to regulate your emotions, to reduce impulsive behavior.