What is Art Therapy?

ABOUT ART THERAPY

Art Therapy was developed in the 1930's when psychiatrists studied artwork to see if there was a link between the art and the illness of their patients. The principle foundation of Art Therapy is based on the belief that the creative process involved in the making of art is healing and life-enhancing. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes with an Art Therapist, one can increase awareness of self, cope with symptoms, stress, and traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of artistic creativity.

Art Therapy is used to treat depression, anxiety, anger and aggression, substance abuse, oppositional tendencies, post traumatic stress, attention deficit and hyperactivity, and self-injurious behaviors (American Art Therapy Association).

Registered Art Therapists (ATR) are professionals trained in both art and therapy and hold a Masters degree in art therapy and have completed a 1000 hours post graduate supervision. Board Certified Art Therapists (BC) have achieved the highest recognition in their field by passing a Board Certified Exam. Skilled in the application of a variety of art modalities (drawing, painting, clay, and other mediums), Art Therapists use art to treat, assess, and conduct research, as well as provide consultation to allied professionals. Art Therapists the creative process to help the client identify issues, create goals to address their concerns, and develop objectives with the clients to meet their goals. The use of art materials allows the client to explore issues in a safe and productive manner and allows for the client to sublimate unhealthy emotions into the creative process.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(American Art Therapy Association)

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a human service profession which utilizes art media, images, the creative art process and patient/client responses to the created art productions as reflections of an individual's development, abilities, personality, interests, concerns, and conflicts. Art therapy practice is based on knowledge of human developmental and psychological theories which are implemented in the full spectrum of models of assessment and treatment including educational, psychodynamic, cognitive, transpersonal, and other therapeutic means of reconciling emotional conflicts, fostering self-awareness, developing social skills, managing behavior, solving problems, reducing anxiety, aiding reality orientation, and increasing self-esteem.

Art therapy is an effective treatment for the developmentally, medically, educationally, socially or psychologically impaired; and is practiced in mental health, rehabilitation, medical, educational, and forensic institutions. Populations of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds are served by art therapists in individual, couples, family, and group therapy formats.


Where Do Art Therapists Work?

Art Therapists work in private offices, art rooms, or meeting rooms in facilities such as:

• hospitals--both medical and psychiatric

• out-patient facilities

• clinics

• residential treatment centers

• halfway houses

• shelters

• schools

• correctional facilities

• elder care facilities

• pain clinics

• universities

• art studios

Art therapist may work as part of a team which includes physicians, psychologists, nurses, rehabilitation counselors, social workers, and teachers. Together, they determine and implement a client's therapeutic, school, or mental health program. Art therapists also work as primary therapists in private practice.

How do I choose an Art Therapist?

Each Art Therapist works differently. Some may specialize in a specific area of interest or with a specific population group. Because Art Therapists theoretical background differ, some may focus on assessment and diagnosis, some may uses Freudian theory, or Cognitive Behavior approaches, or Jungian theory, etc. Some may focus on the art making process rather than the finished product. When you are choosing an Art Therapist you need to ask questions and state what your specific needs are. This will help you clarify if the Art Therapist is right for you.


GROUPS

Art therapy is an effective therapeutic modality when used with groups. Groups should be identified by a common therapeutic goal or specific client population. Art Therapists work with diverse populations since the art materials can be adapted to meet the client’s needs. Art therapists work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide services to individuals, couples, families, groups, and communities. They often work as part of clinical teams, in settings that include mental health, rehabilitation, medical and forensic institutions; community outreach programs; wellness centers; schools; nursing homes; corporate structures; art studios; and independent practices.