What is art therapy?
According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is a mental health profession that uses art-making, the creative process, and applied psychological theory within the context of a therapeutic relationship to enrich the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Art therapists are mental health clinicians trained to help people engage with art materials in a therapeutic way.
What does art therapy look like?
The art therapist works with the client to take steps towards their goals through the use of different art materials and processes. This can include painting, drawing, sculpting, collage, print-making, as well as art-assisted relaxation and artistic games. Art therapy sessions can involve a check-in, art-making, and processing of the artwork while helping clients connect with their needs and emotions. Each session balances flexibility and structure to meet the client’s needs in the moment and support their overarching progress in counseling.
What are some of the benefits of art therapy?
For many people, it can be hard to find the right words to aptly describe their emotions or experiences. Art therapy opens the door for communication that is not strictly reliant on words. Art therapy has been found to support emotional processing and resilience, foster self-esteem, reduce conflict and anxiety, improve interpersonal relationships, and promote cognitive and sensory motor functioning.
Who can benefit from art therapy?
People of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from art therapy, and no prior art experience or skill level is required. Art therapists believe everyone is an artist and value the artistic process over the product. Art therapy has been used across a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, rehab centers, community mental health centers, hospice programs, memory care programs, crisis centers, veteran services, private practice, and more.
What does the research say about art therapy?
According to research, art therapy can help many kinds of people feel calmer and more regulated both physically and emotionally. Art therapy has been shown to help relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression related to times of crisis, trauma, difficult life changes, and grief. When life feels out of control, art therapy can help you feel more in control. Art therapy can also help with managing physical or chronic pain through creative expression, redirection, and relaxation. Due to the highly adaptable nature of art materials and process, art therapy lends itself well to working with individuals who may have specific developmental, cognitive, or communication support needs.
Additional Resources / Where can I find out more about art therapy?
You can learn more about art therapy from the American Art Therapy Association. For more local resources, you can check out the Illinois Art Therapy Association or the Missouri Art Therapy Association.
Have more questions?
Contact us at (618) 417-7158 or email info@compasscc.org
To sign up for art therapy, click HERE to complete our intake form.