Art therapy can be understood as the therapeutic modality using visual art materials and engaging in the creative process in the presence of an art therapist. In art therapy, the focus is on the creative process rather than the outcome of the final art piece. The art therapist provides guidance while the participant(s) create. They hold a safe space for creative self-expression. The art therapist is there to listen, work through, and provide support for emotional concerns. The art therapist and artist(s) can then work together to discuss and explore the art making experience: how it felt to create, insights brought to the surface through art-making, and how the artwork relates to concerns or situations in the participant’s life. No previous artistic experience needed at all!

 

Art therapy can be a powerful tool to address mental health concerns, life transitions, personal growth, grief and loss, and more.

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Art making in art therapy allows for the expression of feelings that may be difficult to put into words, as well as opportunities to discuss feelings and experiences. Some of the goals and benefits of art therapy include, but are not limited to:

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• Working through challenging emotions and/or life experiences

• Increasing Self-expression

• Decreasing Anxiety

• Reducing Stress

•  Increasing Self-esteem

• Increasing Mindfulness

• Enhancing Joy

• Improved self-efficacy

• Increasing Emotional Awareness

• Reduced Cortisol Levels