What is Art Therapy?
Creative Arts Therapists are specially-trained, mental health professionals who carry licenses and/or certifications in the state where they practice.
There are so many different types of therapists out there, so why choose an art therapist? No matter whether you identify as an artist or creative person, every human has the natural ability to create. Creating is how we first learn to communicate as children and how we learn to solve problems at every stage of our lives. Many times, our personal experiences are simply too difficult or painful to put into words and what we are left with is a hard-to-explain feeling or sense of confusion, loss or anxiety. A licensed art psychotherapist can use your unique creative process to help you explore the aspects of your experience or self that are just out of reach and hard to explain verbally. Many times art therapists incorporate both art and verbal talk therapy when working with individuals and families. People choose to explore art materials in therapy as an opportunity for self-reflection or relaxation or as a way to safely release tension. They may also work with their therapist to use art materials, imagery, writing or personal photographs to explore important parts of their identity in a confidential space.
FAQs
Do I have to be an artist to see an art therapist?
No. Anyone and everyone can benefit from seeing an art therapist. Every therapy session is unique to the person and their needs.
Is art therapy only for children?
No. Art therapy is a form of therapy and psychotherapy that can be deeply meaningful for people of all ages and experience levels.
Are art materials provided?
As therapy services are provided via telehealth, I will share a list of appropriate art materials to begin with. You may use materials you have already, or gather new materials specifically for our work in therapy.
Confidentiality
For licensed mental health professionals, confidentiality is protected by state laws. The content of therapy sessions and the artwork created and discussed are confidential and protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Privacy, confidentiality and informed consent will be discussed prior to treatment.
Non-Discrimination Policy
When you seek therapy, it should be a friendly, safe, inclusive and non-judgmental, healing space. Therapy services, consultation and clinical supervision are provided to all, and will not discriminate on the bases of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, parental status, veteran status, military discharge status, citizenship status or source of income or any other protected status.
american art therapy association
Art therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.
Art therapy, facilitated by a professional art therapist, effectively supports personal and relational treatment goals as well as community concerns. Art therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change. (American Art Therapy Association, 2019)
QUESTIONS? LET’S CHAT.
HAVE QUESTIONS? BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION WITH ME.