What is art therapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that provides a therapeutic space where client and therapist can overcome the barriers and limitations of language. Often verbal or written expression can be hard for children and adolescents especially during difficult times. They find it hard to express their inner most thoughts and feelings which might be painful, confusing or too difficult to express with language, language that they might not have developed.

Art therapy provides a creative channel through which a child or teen can draw, paint, sculpt, colour or sew in the presence of a trained therapist who can guide activities to facilitate the exploration of complex issues.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM ART THERAPY?

Anyone can benefit from art therapy as it provides a therapeutic space for improving social, emotional and mental wellbeing however art therapy can potentially:

· Enhance emotional resilience

· Improve cognitive and sensory-motor function

· Improve self-esteem and self-awareness

· Provide personal insight

· Improve social skills

· Provide support and strategies for grief and trauma

· Resolve conflict and distress.

WHO PROVIDES THE THERAPY?

At ArtPsych registered psychologists who are also qualified art therapists deliver our services. Our therapist’s work is grounded in evidence based theory and practise.

Art therapy and the process of art making where the client and therapists work together creates a space where expressions are made. The therapist, aware of these expressions can help the client to explore the artworks that they have created through talk about their creations thereby gently exploring the underlying emotions, unconscious thoughts and feelings that might have been involved in a safe and confidential setting. This process of exploration can, over time lead to personal growth, development and a sense of enhanced wellbeing.