What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a therapeutic method that involves the use of different art media to help people address their unresolved emotional and psychological issues so that they can see life from a fresh perspective. One doesn't have to be an artist or know a thing about art to receive the benefits of art therapy, because it's not the outcome of their work that will heal them, but the process of creating it.
Various creative tools and techniques are utilised in art therapy, including painting, drawing, sculpting, photography, creating collages and so many others. Allowing a client to choose their preferred materials and use these however they want to express themselves promotes emotional and mental wellness.
What are the Benefits of Art Therapy?
Research shows that art therapy is an effective way to raise self-awareness, release repressed emotions and boost self-esteem. It has been proven beneficial for a wide range of conditions including the following:
- Depression and anxiety
- Stress
- Grief and loss
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Addiction
- Family or relationship issues
- Lack of confidence
- Communication problems
- Eating disorders
- Muscle tension
- High blood pressure
How Does Online Art Therapy Work?
In an art therapy session, the art therapist provides different art materials to help the client express themselves in a way they deem proper. The client may choose to work with paint, clay, charcoal, textile, or other tools with which they are comfortable. They are free to use their preferred art materials however they want, while the art therapist observes their behaviour throughout the process.
As soon as the client has completed their artwork, the art therapist will ask what emotions surfaced while they were at work. The act of sharing this deep-seated information helps facilitate the client's healing.
The locations of the client and that of the art therapist are immaterial. They don't have to be in the same room for the session to produce positive outcomes since it doesn't require the element of physical touch. The client communicates their feelings and thoughts through images. Using the Zoom video conferencing platform, the client can receive art therapy online and get the same benefits as a face-to-face session.
What Can You Expect From Online Art Therapy?
Art therapy allows you to access memories and experiences stored in your subconscious, and give these forms on paper, canvas or whatever medium you plan to use. A remote therapy session begins with a brief discussion with your art therapist about the goals you wish to attain with the activity.
Just like in face-to-face therapy, you can use any art materials you want to express your thoughts and feelings. Depending on how big, small or intricate your work is, the art-making process could take roughly 15 to 30 minutes. Once your work is finished, the therapist will ask you about the thoughts and feelings you had while doing your art, how you felt when it was done, and other relevant questions.
Aside from addressing deeply-rooted emotional issues, art therapy is a calming activity that develops your ability to keep your mind focused on the present as opposed to locking it up in the past. Through the guidance of a qualified art therapist, you will feel happier and ready to move forward with your life after an experiential art therapy session.
