In today’s Wellness 101 we bring you art therapy…
Years ago, I began looking for an alternative form of therapy - I just never quite clicked with conventional psychotherapy. So when I heard the phrase “art therapy” tossed around at a party, I was instantly intrigued. Since I have a background in art, I felt that my creativity could be the perfect outlet. The more I discovered, the more convinced I became that art therapy could benefit not only me, but also anyone else out there – and in innumerable and wonderful ways.
Art therapy is a unique form of therapy that uses art to help patients understand and express their thoughts and emotions. The theory behind it holds that the creative process itself (rather than the actual product) can be a life-enhancing and therapeutic experience. Clients often work with paint, colored pencils, markers, three-dimensional objects, or mixed media, as well as through performance art and photography. Art therapists believe that it is not their job to interpret or add meaning to artwork, so the process should feel free and unencumbered. So although they observe, they do not psychoanalyze the art.
Art therapy is often used to help clients cope with a crisis, deal with stress, heal relationships, maintain mental health, and aid in emotional well-being. Through the creation of art, patients are able to gain insight into their problems and discover their own solutions. If you’re in the market for a therapist, consider working with an art therapist. Sessions are not only helpful and insightful, they’re also really fun! Start your search for creative therapy here.
Good luck!
~Jennifer Rosen
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Technorati Tags: Glam Media, Glam, GlamSpirit, Wellness, Health, GlamNetwork, Therapy, Emotional Well-being , Creative Process, Sand Therapy, Performance Art, Mental Health
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Jericho | 13-Jun-08 at 6:11 am | Permalink
I am a teacher and attended a brief workshop on art therapy. I was immediately intrigued and interested. I work with children in are in a residential psychiatric program, so I am always interested in finding alternative ways of helping them. This has been at least seven years back, so the details are somewhat hazy. But, one thing I remember being most interested in was the art therapist’s interpretation of the children’s art work. He pointed out recurring themes and what these themes often mean. So, I was just wondering how this experience of interpretation correlates w/ the author of this article. I think I’ll take a look on http://www.goodtherapy.org/ and see what the authors over there have to say. These therapists know their stuff and always point me in the right direction!