What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses a mix of art, words and the therapeutic relationship itself to improve psychological and emotional wellbeing.
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about our feelings and difficulties. The processes involved in image
making and the images themselves offer a non-verbal form of expression and communication, particularly helpful for confusing or difficult feelings.
Using free artistic expression, sometimes the focus may be on the art-making process; however, the art work itself can also be a useful tool for self-reflection and understanding. Art can offer a non-judgmental way to externalise emotions in order to think about or process them.
Why Art Therapy?
If a child feels stuck when trying to 'talk out' a problem, if they already use creativity to express their emotions, or if their problems / worries are trauma-based, Art Therapy can be a fresh and powerful way to approach a problem and to gain insight into oneself.
Benefits & Risks
Art Therapy is recognised as a way to safely express and process thoughts and feelings in order to promote positive change. It has been shown to improve mental & emotional health, and ultimately increase the child's potential to get on in life and achieve.
Art therapy follows a gentle process. It is up to the individual how they choose to use their session; they will never be made to talk about anything or explore feelings they do not want to. If and when they decide to, the expression of strong emotions sometimes causes children to display some increase in disruptive behaviour or feelings at first; however, this is a normal side effect, and by being supported to better understand themselves and their feelings, therapy can help the child to:
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Feel calmer, contained, more settled
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Have their feelings validated and understood
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Feel less worried, angry, upset
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Understand their behaviour as emotional repercussions
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Improve their concentration and behaviour
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Increase resilience to prevent future harm
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Improve self-esteem and confidence
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Feel listened to and have their experiences acknowledged
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Develop emotional intelligence
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Develop a sense of self
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Increase their capacity to trust
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Think about and deal with emotions
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Improve communication
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Address relationship issues
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Find a new way to express their feelings
