Art therapy is like talking therapy, but uses art as another form of expression, to ‘get things out’ alongside talking. It aims to reduce distress and improve social, emotional and mental health by promoting insight, self-compassion and a sense of agency and self-worth.
Art therapy can be beneficial for children and young people who find it challenging to express themselves verbally, or who find it easier to express themselves with a pen and paper.
Art making in Art therapy sessions is never judged, marked or shown to others to display. The art making in art therapy becomes part of the clinical notes in sessions and is retained by the therapist for the duration of the therapeutic process.
At the end of therapy, the client can decide which, if any, of the artwork produced in the sessions they would like to take home.
You don’t have to be ‘good’ at art to engage with art therapy. Scribbles, marks made on paper or clay are great.
Sometimes people can feel unsure when asked to engage with art making, but this can change over time as clients get used to the process and understand that it is not about making ‘good’ art. I might use art making alongside clients in a session if it is appropriate, but it depends on what the child/young person is comfortable with and whether it is beneficial for the therapy.
Please visit www.baat.org for further information about Art Therapy.