Practitioners of the Art therapy approach use paint and painting materials to help individuals express their emotions and feelings. The act of painting and its end result can enable people to realise subconscious or
suppressed emotions. It provides individuals with a non-verbal means of communicating their feelings. The three-way relationship between the therapist, individual and visual artefact is central.
History
Art as a therapy dates back to the 1940s and was used in psychiatric hospitals. It was found that painting and other creative activities helped patients to articulate
hidden feelings, enabling art therapists and students to establish a beneficial, therapeutic relationship.
Approach
Art therapy is a type of
expressive therapy. This approach includes other areas of the arts such as drama, sculpture and dance. It is thought this kind of psychotherapy can encourage healing by enabling people to express themselves creatively. Art therapy in particular has become a well-established and effective technique.
How can it help?
Art therapy is suitable for anyone interested in exploring their inner feelings and emotions. It is especially useful to those who find it difficult to express themselves verbally, helping them to achieve
personal growth and development. Art therapy is a proven technique and courses are used widely in hospitals, prisons and education centres.
Art Therapy resources
British Association of Art Therapists
International Expressive Arts Therapy Associations
The United Kingdom Society for Play and Creative Arts Therapies
