Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?
Danielle LaPorte
What is Arts Therapy
Arts therapy or arts psychotherapy uses creative modalities such as visual art, drama, and dance and movement with either individuals or groups to improve and enhance physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual wellbeing. It is suitable for all ages, and for many different life situations, and doesn’t require any particular artistic skills in order to benefit from this. Arts therapy works by accessing imagination and creativity, using the arts as a process to work towards change in various areas of your life, or contribute towards the development of a more integrated sense of self, and increased self awareness and self acceptance.
How does Arts Therapy Work
Arts therapy is based on the belief that the process of engaging creatively in drama, movement or art making within a therapeutic relationship, supports changes in the client’s inner world. It can assist with improving the client’s personal growth and insight, processing of traumatic experiences, and resolving inner conflicts. During each session, the arts therapist and client work together to understand and make meaning from the creative process or product, discovering how it relates to the client’s life and what messages it holds for the client. It provides a unique opportunity for non verbal communication, allowing clients to express feelings in a safe environment.
Listen to your art.
Louis Lienhoeft
Advantages of Arts Therapy
Arts therapy can help people to resolve conflicts, develop interpersonal skills, manage behaviour, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and achieve insight. Arts therapy can encourage clients to:
- express feelings that may be difficult to verbalise
- explore their imagination and creativity
- develop healthy coping skills and focus
- improve self-esteem and confidence
- identify and clarify issues and concerns
- increase communication skills
- share in a safe nurturing environment
- improve motor skills and physical co-ordination
- identify blocks to emotional expression and personal growth