Art therapy is a therapeutic modality that involves an art therapist and client working with the creative art making process to support a client’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

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Creating art helps people move beyond conscious verbal expression in order to reach deeper levels of healing by accessing what lies in the unconscious. When people have trouble expressing themselves verbally, art gives them the option to share their personal experiences in a visual art form which can be more impactful than words alone. Creating artwork can also ease people into opening up about difficult topics.

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An art therapist focuses on a client’s strengths, interests, and abilities so engaging in the creative process feels safe and comfortable.

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Clients do not have to be artists or art proficient to engage in art therapy. Art expression includes drawing, painting, sculpting, clay, writing, collage, poetry, music, and much more. Research supports the use of art therapy and acknowledges the therapeutic benefits gained through artistic self-expression.

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The benefits of art therapy are:

• Promotes self-expression and self-awareness

• Supports self-care, balance, and well being

• Decreases stress, depression, and anxiety

• Manages chronic pain and physical ailments causing distress

• Encourages the development of healthy and effective coping skills

• Explores traumatic experiences in a safe manner

• Assists in improving focus and memory

• Develops problem solving skills