What is Art Therapy?

The ‘Arts’ or ‘Creative’ Therapies are forms of Psychotherapy, which use a range of creative mediums to support the therapeutic process, this includes Drama, Music and Art Therapy.

Art Therapy specifically, offers the addition of art materials to support individuals in expressing and exploring their feelings, thoughts or experiences. Experimenting or playing with the art materials, creating images or objects, and reflecting with the support of the therapist can provide a bridge to verbal dialogue, support the processing of emotions and promote self-learning and healing.

Art Therapy can be helpful for children and adults alike. No matter what our age, we can still struggle to find the words to express our emotional difficulties.

Some of the things Art Therapy can help with are:

• Building confidence & self-esteem
• Understanding and managing emotions and experiences
• Building better relationships
• Strengthening a sense of self
• Processing abuse & trauma
• Developing social and emotional skills
• Fostering hope and mental well-being
• Increased educational engagement & enjoyment

Art Therapy is not like an art class and no ‘art skills’ are required, just a willingness to explore, experiment and be playful. However, it is understood that this in itself may be tricky, and the therapist will support the individual with getting used to this.