Art Therapy, When Words Are Not Enough…
Art
Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art making and the
creative process as a primary mode of communication. It differs from
other psychological therapies in that it is a three way process between
the client, the therapist and the image or artefact.
It
offers the opportunity for expression and communication and can be
particularly helpful to people, young and old, who find it difficult to
express their thoughts and feelings verbally.
You do not have to be 'good at art', it is less about a finished art piece but more about the process over time.
Although
talking and playing are part of the communication, the 'art', or the
creative aspect of the psychotherapy, enables the client to express
themselves in a different way or in a way that feels more comfortable.
We
tend to use language to talk about the things we are consciously aware
of, whereas making art can also allow unconscious feelings and
motivations to emerge. In this way it can provide a ‘bridge’, helping a
person to
communicate how they feel to themselves and to the people around them.
In
individual therapy, the process of art making helps the client develop
trust within a triangular relationship; art, client and therapist. Such
relationship is unique, facilitating an added level of safety in
exploring difficult, confusing and complex feelings.
In
group art therapy, the identification of similar experiences and
struggles within the group can further reduce negative feelings and
beliefs.
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