What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy. Art Therapists have to be trained to Masters level, and to be registered with the HCPC. Art Therapy is different to ‘Art’ for recreational activity as its roots are in psychological models, such as psychodynamic, attachment theory and mindfulness.
Art therapy is provided in groups or individually, depending on clients’ needs. It is not a recreational activity or an art lesson, although the sessions can be enjoyable. You do not have to be good at art, or have any experience of making art to work with an Art Therapist.
Art therapists work with children, young people, adults and the elderly. Clients may have a wide range of difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses. These include emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities
Why Art Therapy?
- It can help people who struggle to verbalise their feelings and thoughts
- Empowerment: people can visually express emotions and fears
- To gain insight into emotions, thoughts and feelings
- Self discovery and growth
- Personal fulfilment: to build confidence and nurture feelings of self worth
- Sense of control over feelings
- Effective way to deal with physical pain and emotional distress
- Relaxation and stress relief
See the BAAT (British Association of Art Therapists) website for further information about Art Therapy
