What is Art Therapy?
-Express-Observe-Reflect-
By making art, we externalize our internal conflicts.
Art Therapy is different than traditional modes of talk therapy because it gives the client tangible and constructive ways to engage with their issues in a hands on manner.
Creating art gives us a focal point to discuss. Instead of having to form thoughts and ideas through speech, we process through imagery. The artwork then allows the therapist and the client to observe problems from a different vantage point. Opening up opportunities for the client to process conflicts, challenge stagnant view points, and/or integrate issues.
It is a ‘doing’ form of therapy that gives a client a relm of control and enables them to process in a productive manner. There is no need to have previous art making experience, because the goal is to process and express through materials. It is not an expectation to make finished artwork.
Everything that is created in a therapy session belongs to the client and can be stored with the therapist, or taken home with the client.
*If gaining experience with art materials and art making is your goal, there is a different option to pursue.
I offer a Creativity Coaching program that blends professional feedback on art materials, techniques and conceptual processing. This service is ideal for emerging artists and clients looking to expand their art practice.
Art Therapist Credentials:
In Canada art therapists must have at minimum a master’s degree or a master’s level diploma in art therapy before identifying themselves within the profession. This graduate level education includes supervised clinical practicum hours (minimum requirement for all practicums is 700 hours and at least 350 of these hours should involve direct client contact), thus ensuring the safety of the client as well as professional liability for agencies and employers offering this form of therapy. - www.canadianarttherapy.org