About Art Therapy
The American Art Therapy Association defines the field of art therapy as a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight
A registered art therapist uses the process of art making to address issues of anger, depression, peer relations, goal setting, self- esteem and problem solving in a structured group setting. Students are encouraged to engage in the creative process of fine arts, music, play, drama, movement, poetry and creative writing as positive coping strategies and constructive way to release energy.
Art as Therapy
The creative process of art making has inherent healing power. This concept embraces the idea that making art is therapeutic. By making art, students have the opportunity to be expressive, imaginative, and spontaneous. It is a process that can lead to emotional catharsis, energy sublimation, and self fulfillment. Therefore, in this theory- the process of creating art is more valuable than the product itself.
The process of art making is hands-on! Creating art stimulates the visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory senses which are particularly important in a children’s mental development. It assists with fine and gross motor skills, tactile defensiveness, and taps into emotions students do not have the vocabulary to express. Not to mention, getting your hands messy is generally fun for students!
Art as Psychotherapy
This theory suggests that art can be a means of symbolic communication. The product of the art therapy session lends itself to starting a conversation with the art therapist about the heart of the matter, and thus helps lead the student to personal insights and new perspectives. It is an outlet for the subconscious. Through the conversation about the art work, the student can resolve conflicts, change attitudes, and problem solve. The goal of the psychotherapeutic art therapy session is to help the student enhance personal power, formulate new perceptions about current attitudes and change behaviors as well as increase self esteem.
Resources
American Art Therapy Association
Art Therapy in K-12 Schools Tool Kit
Art Therapy and Autism Tool Kit
Art Therapy and Youth Affected with Trauma Tool Kit
