Art Therapy

“Art therapy is a form of therapy in making of visual images (paintings, drawings, models etc.) in the presences of a qualified art therapist contributes towards externalization of thoughts and feelings which may otherwise remain unexpressed”(Walter & Gilory, 1992).

My vision of Art Therapy was very vague. I always thought art therapy was a form of therapy for distressed or abused children trying to tell a story through pictures or drawings. The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well being of individuals of all ages. Art therapy is a form psychotherapy that has been practiced for over sixty years and it has been promoted as a means of helping people who find it difficult to express themselves verbally (Crawford, et al., 2010). Art therapy sessions usually start with a form of relaxation such as deep breathing , progressive muscle relaxation, or setting an intention for the session ahead (Hart, 2010). Art therapy is used for several different types of people with diverse illnesses such as: Autism Spectrum Disorder, people living with HIV/AIDS, mental disorders and even Cancer. Studies show that art therapy can lead to increased self awareness of self, as well as improved ability to cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences (American Art Therapy Association). This form of therapy helps these patients express positive feelings that may not be easy to access in the midst of a fear provoking experience (Hart, 2010). Art therapy help people to identify their feelings, and resolve the issues associated with their illness. Although, my lack of knowledge on this therapeu...

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...or everyone, not just people living with an illness. I think this because for example, a mother of three has had a long stressful week and needs a break from the children, so to release some stress she participants in an art therapy group. That way she has time away from the kids to get back to her normal self, instead of being tense and frustrated. Art therapy has its advantages and disadvantages, with constant and proficient help, people will respond to art therapy in a decent way. They will be more open and accepting to their issues. For people who do not seek constant help, in my opinion, will become more stress or vulnerable to whatever they are dealing with. Art therapy has broaden my knowledge on and as being a future Social Worker, I know this type of therapy will become useful when dealing with clients who have a difficult time expressing themselves.