THE BENEFITS OF ART THERAPY

Source: Flickr by Cluster Munition Coalition

Through the process of artistic creation, art therapy allows the expression of oneself, of one’s feelings, emotions, and sensations – giving meaning to difficult and painful life events. It is indicative in all phases of fragility and it is effective in reducing:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Behavior problems

This way of therapeutic accomplishment is also particularly interesting in the management of the problems encountered by children, in particular. Art therapy is a more accessible form of communication, for individuals who have difficulty talking about themselves. It allows them to tell stories through their art.

What are the benefits of art therapy?

The benefits and advantages of art therapy are numerous.

Art therapy promotes the development of imagination and creativity:

This is important since the creative process itself is crucial to achieving transformation and positive change- whether it be personal development, wellness, awareness, or problem-solving.

Art therapy is a means of expression for the unconscious:

It increases the likelihood of unveiling underlying issues, conflicts, and concerns- that could be raised in therapy.

Art therapy promotes integration, integrity, and coherence:

It does this by encouraging the person to communicate both visually and verbally – whilst engaging in a process that is, at the same time, psychic, emotional, and intellectual. By using visual arts in an adapted environment, we help the person to live an experience that is particularly absorbing and pleasant.

Final thoughts

Creative activity can help reduce stress – by limiting the intrusion of negative thinking, and also limiting negative beliefs. Whilst simultaneously increasing self-confidence, self-esteem, focus, and the emergence of positive feelings. This self-awareness learning can easily be transferred to other situations in life.

In art therapy, different mediums can be used such as painting, sculpture, dance, writing, and theatre. Art therapy is practiced in groups or in individual sessions. By appealing to the creative resources that lie dormant in each of us, it does not require any prior cultural background or artistic talent.