Art Therapy
What is Art Therapy?
The use of artistic expressions in the psychological world to enhance and improve mental health is known as art therapy. Art therapy is linked to the idea that creativity can foster healing for the mental well-being.
Art therapy is defined as a form of psychotherapy that involves self-expression through forms of art such as painting, drawing, or modelling.
History of Art Therapy
Even though expression through art has been around for thousands of years, the combination of therapy and art was not connected until the 1940s. A British artist named Adrian Hill, discovered the benefits of art while recovering from tuberculosis. The term “art therapy” was then created in 1942. This form of therapy was explored further by Edward Adamson who studied the connection between expression and emotional release.
Art therapy was further explored in the United States by the “mothers” of this practice. The term and theory behind art therapy became more developed by Margaret Naumburg. Margaret was a psychologist in the 20th century who explored and linked art to the expression of the unconscious through free association. Edith Kramer was a psychologist who created the education behind art therapy.
Types of Art Therapy
Art outside of the therapy space has many different forms and techniques. The form and technique can play in the therapy space is just as diverse. The creation or appreciation of art is used to help people explore emotions, develop self-awareness, cope with stress, boost self-esteem, and work on social skills.
Types of art that can be used in art therapy can include:
Collage
Coloring
Doodling and scribbling
Drawing
Finger painting
Painting
Photography
Sculpting
Working with clay
What can art therapy help with?
Art therapy can be used to treat a wide range of clients with mental health disorders and distresses. Art therapy can be used as a singular approach, or with other forms of therapy such as group therapy and CBT.
These are just some areas that art therapy can help treat:
Anxiety
Depression
Eating disorders
Emotional difficulties
Family or relationship problems
Medical conditions
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)5
Psychosocial issues
Stress
Clients who have experienced emotional trauma, physical violence, domestic abuse, anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues can benefit from expressing themselves creatively.
Some situations in which art therapy might be utilized include:
Adults experiencing stress
Children experiencing behavioral or social problems
Individuals who have experienced a traumatic event
Children with learning disabilities
Individuals living with a brain injury
Things to Consider
Before starting art therapy, there are a few misconceptions and facts to be aware of.
The most common misconception is on the art skills and level needed. No one needs to have a high level of artistic ability to participate in this form of therapy. Art therapy is exploring the entire process, not just the finish product. Art therapy also links the feelings and emotions from the early stages to the techniques used. The finish product is just one aspect of what is discussed and explored.
The next misconception is the age appropriate for the best client in art therapy. There is actually no age limit, as this therapy can serve everyone. Most people view art therapy as a great approach to working with children. The benefits for children is based on the level of communication and young children being able to name feelings and emotions. However, other ages can benefit from this form of expression.
Art therapy is not the same as an art class. While art classes can be beneficial to self-care, it is not a form of therapy. In art therapy, there is a licensed therapist in the room to guide and contain the emotions explored. Art class is also designed to be focused on the finished product by guiding techniques. Art therapy is allowing the space for the client to express inner emotion.
