Five Benefits of Art Therapy by Art Psychotherapist Ella Davies
Art Therapy has been utilised in healthcare since the 1940s, and is a type of psychotherapy which uses creative art-making to support the expression and exploration of thoughts, emotions and experiences, alongside a trained art therapist.
It is not about being skilled in art or creating “good” art, but rather using the creativity as a tool to support self-understanding, healing and emotional and mental wellbeing. Art Therapy does not involve the judging of artwork, nor the teaching of artistic skills.
Art Therapy offers many of the same benefits as other forms of psychotherapy, but it also provides specific, distinct benefits. Let’s take a look at some of these below.
1. Non- verbal expression
Art Therapy can offer a form of non-verbal expression. It can be really difficult to articulate emotions and speak about our experiences, and so the use of art materials can support this process or offer an alternative means to express, explore and process these. This can support the accessibility of therapy for neurodivergent individuals.
2. Supports curiosity
Curiosity is key to supporting our wellbeing, as it allows a greater understanding of ourselves, our thoughts and the ways in which we are able to cope with challenges. Image making can help foster, nurture and develop our sense of curiosity, leading to greater self-discovery and insight.
3. Less intimidating
Many consider Art Therapy to feel like a non-threatening form of therapy as the use of art materials can feel less intimidating than directly speaking about difficult experiences. As such, it provides a safe space to explore complex feelings and navigate emotions without the pressure of putting words to them.
The art processes can help individuals to take control, allowing the therapeutic work to happen at a pace in which the individual feels comfortable. Similarly, the art making can offer “distance” from difficult thoughts and feelings, so that they feel easier to process and reflect upon.
4. Adaptability
Art Therapy will be adapted, with different approaches and materials, to meet each client’s individual needs. For example, some individuals may benefit from more directive, or guided, activities, whereas others may benefit more from a non-directive approach in which they have greater freedom. Similarly, the art materials used in art therapy are adaptable, with some which provide greater structure and control, whilst others can be more expressive and fluid.
5. Versatility
Art Therapy can be used to address a wide range of emotional, psychological and even physical needs. It can be used to work towards a variety of aims related to personal growth, fostering emotional resilience, and building confidence. Did you know that Art Therapy can support social skills, interpersonal dynamics, and managing physical health conditions such as chronic pain?
Whether it is processing trauma, managing stress, navigating grief or supporting mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, Art Therapy can provide a safe space to work through these complex issues and explore these feelings and experiences.
The broad evidence base demonstrates that the combination of creativity and therapeutic techniques can support individuals, across the ages, presenting with a wide range of difficulties. Often, individuals will benefit from Art Therapy in a combination of ways and this combination will vary person-to-person.
This is a brief oversight of five of the unique benefits of Art Therapy. Do you have questions about Art Therapy? Let us know what you’d like to know!