ARTWORKS
AS THERAPY
Art Therapy unites the disciplines of art making and psychotherapy, aiding individuals to safely explore personal issues and better understand difficult emotions in the quest for psychological wellbeing. Its emphasis on non-verbal expression encourages less threatening ways to contemplate feelings and experiences, opening up new perspectives and ways to navigate life problems and transitions. Research in the field of neurobiology has shown that the use of the hands and body to create art contributes to the self-regulation of moods, while the therapeutic relationship established with a qualified art therapist is able to help nurture self-esteem, self-compassion, and trust in others.
Who Can Benefit from Art Therapy?
Art therapy has been shown to benefit individuals experiencing many different mental health challenges including: anxiety, depression, past and present trauma, compulsive disorders, shame, critical illnesses, grief, loss of self worth, as well as relationship or work-related difficulties. Through the process of art making under the guidance of a trained art therapist, individuals learn to use their own creativity to discover new ways of being, develop resiliency, and cultivate positive attitudes concerning change in order to move forward in life.
How Art Therapy Works?
Art therapy can be conducted in private sessions or facilitated in a group setting. No prior experience or ability in art making is required.
Art therapy sessions take place in a safe, therapeutic environment.
The first session will begin with discussing the needs and expectations of a client, before starting to make art.
It is important to note that all work made or discussions held in session are kept strictly confidential following the professional standards of ethics put forth by international art therapy associations, ANZATA, BAAT, and AATA.
It is through the use of art materials, such as paint, charcoal, clay, fabric or found objects, whereby a therapist can assist her client in either a directive or non-directive manner to journey on a personal path to transformation through the creative process.
An art therapist is not able to evaluate work made by her client alone. It is through the therapeutic relationship between the client, artwork, and art therapist that reflection and understanding can take place.
ArtWorks offers private consultations and therapeutic art-based workshops tailored to meet the specific needs of each client or group. For more information or to make an appointment, please visit the link on this page.