Hi Friends! Thanks for stopping by! Today I am going to help you learn a little more about what Art Therapy is and isn’t. Let’s start with the basics 🙂
Art Therapy (defined)– a mental health profession (or practice) in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, and the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem. (American Art Therapy Association, 2013)
Art Therapy: What makes it different?
Art therapy involves a therapeutic relationship between a client and a therapist. It is very similar to talking with a psychotherapist, psychologist, or clinical social worker. Credentialed art therapists complete a Master’s degree with extensive training, follow national ethical guidelines and continue to further their education through workshops and trainings. It is first and foremost a form of therapy, and should be recognized as such.
The main difference between traditional therapy and art therapy is that art making is added into the relationship in a safe and supervised way. Art is used as a means of communication and exploration. Art can communicate specific thoughts, ideas and emotions. Art therapists know how and when to encourage different materials or artistic processes. They also give specific directives in order to accomplish therapeutic goals.
Coloring Books and Crafts
Art therapy is not coloring in an adult coloring book. Yes, that can be relaxing to you and it involves creativity, but it is does not involve a therapeutic relationship. I LOVE coloring in adult coloring books! Am I practicing art therapy by doing this? No. I am using creativity to help promote relaxation. It is a coping skill. Which is fabulous!!! Keep on keeping on!
Interpretation
Art therapists do not look at an image and tell you what it means. Nope. Nada. I would be doing someone a disservice by looking at an image of a dagger dripping blood and automatically assume that this child wants to kill someone or hurt them self. Instead I would have a meaningful conversation with this child to learn more about what they drew. “Oh, you watched a scary Halloween movie last month and this image is stuck in your head. Wow, that must be difficult for you!” If they did indeed have some more negative thoughts, well that’s fine because I would be talking to them about their art in a safe and confidential space. We would be able to process through those thoughts and work to resolve present issues. I never assume!
Hopefully this little post helped to give you a smidge more information about art therapy!
If you think my services could help you or a loved one, please email me at: eileen@createforgrowth.com. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the national suicide prevention lifeline at: 1-800-273-8255
