What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process to improve mental health and well-being. It is a valuable approach towards developmental, social, emotional, and medical challenges.
According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is the therapeutic use of art-making within a professional relationship, by people experiencing illness, trauma, challenges in living, or by people seeking personal development.
Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others, cope with symptoms of stress and traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life affirming pleasures of making art.
The combination of art and therapy provides a meaningful form of nonverbal communication and self-expression. It is particularly effective for individuals who have difficulty accessing their feelings and conveying them through language and is equally effective for both adults and children. Art therapy for children, who may not have the vocabulary to express their emotions, is a non-verbal expression that bypasses the defenses and is a non-intimidating method of understanding their experiences and perceptions. Artistic training or talent is not necessary to experience the benefits of art therapy.