What is art therapy?
Art therapy (or art psychotherapy) is a form of psychotherapy which encourages the use of art materials as an alternative way to communicate thoughts and feelings.
The use of art materials enables self-exploration and the expression of emotions in a non-verbal way. This non-verbal approach is particularly helpful for people who feel uncomfortable with more traditional ‘talking’ therapies.
Why choose Art Therapy over regular counselling?
A personal experience of art therapy:
"For me art therapy has worked on such a deeper level than any other form of therapy and it’s hard to describe why in words...
It’s like there is another presence in the room, which helps you to express how you feel.
You can do things with your hands rather than just talking.
You can see yourself more clearly.
You can make a mess and it’s OK.
I wouldn’t say it was easy – not at all, it was very hard work... but ultimately overall it was a fantastic experience and I would recommend it as a form of therapy to anyone who is considering having therapy or counselling."
Jane Beinart
Read more on Jane's blog: my-own-personal-experience-of-having-art-therapy
What are the advantages of Art Therapy?
Art therapy can encourage:
• the expression of thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to verbalise
• the exploration of imagination and creativity
• the development of healthy coping skills and focus
• improved communication skills
Who would benefit from Art Therapy?
Art therapists are able to use their discipline in a flexible manner and therefore can be used with individuals and groups in a variety of settings including:
• Healthcare
• Education/schools
• Social care
• In the community
• Museums/galleries
• Home visits
• Private practice
The use of art materials enables self-exploration and the expression of emotions in a non-verbal way. This non-verbal approach is particularly helpful for people who feel uncomfortable with more traditional ‘talking’ therapies.
Why choose Art Therapy over regular counselling?
A personal experience of art therapy:
"For me art therapy has worked on such a deeper level than any other form of therapy and it’s hard to describe why in words...
It’s like there is another presence in the room, which helps you to express how you feel.
You can do things with your hands rather than just talking.
You can see yourself more clearly.
You can make a mess and it’s OK.
I wouldn’t say it was easy – not at all, it was very hard work... but ultimately overall it was a fantastic experience and I would recommend it as a form of therapy to anyone who is considering having therapy or counselling."
Jane Beinart
Read more on Jane's blog: my-own-personal-experience-of-having-art-therapy
What are the advantages of Art Therapy?
Art therapy can encourage:
• the expression of thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to verbalise
• the exploration of imagination and creativity
• the development of healthy coping skills and focus
• improved communication skills
Who would benefit from Art Therapy?
Art therapists are able to use their discipline in a flexible manner and therefore can be used with individuals and groups in a variety of settings including:
• Healthcare
• Education/schools
• Social care
• In the community
• Museums/galleries
• Home visits
• Private practice
All Art therapists are professionally qualified, having under taken a two year Masters degree. Therapists are expected to maintain professional standards and therefore must be registered with the Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC). The HCPC has been set up in the UK to help protect the general public when seeking advice and treatment from a health professional. To check therapists' HCPC registration please visit: www.hcpc-uk.co.uk
