What is art therapy and who are art therapists?
Art therapy is a visual and creative form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication, rather than just talking, listening and hearing.
It is defined by the The British Association of Art Therapists as a tool for healing and self discovery. It provides an access to memories and emotions that are pre-verbal; aiming to dissolve boundaries and limitations to communication. Memories and trauma are stored as sensory sensations; smells, sounds, visual images, and physical symptoms. Trauma and adverse experiences can cause difficulties in processing these into a verbal form. Art therapy engages both left and right hemispheres of the brain, allowing this process to happen in the brain. It also provides a soothing physical activity and emotional support that enables anyone including those with illness / treatment, bereavement, trauma, & mental health needs to explore past trauma without being re-triggered. The art work itself can act as a bridge between patient and therapist when emotions are too difficult to contain from person to person.
It is very important to note that clients do not need to have an artistic background; or feel they are creatively skilled to participate. Art therapy is about self-expression, as opposed to technical skill, and is not an art class. The materials enable a client to explore their inner world or provide relief from the outer. The therapist is there to support the client in their emotional needs; as opposed to teaching specific art skills.
Art therapists have usually trained initially from an art background; but may have also come from a teaching or psychology route. Art therapists undertake two years of full-time, or three years part-time postgraduate training, working as a trainee in a clinical setting, alongside experimental studies. Each therapist has their own supervision and support. They are able to adapt art therapy to suit the needs, ability, and setting of each person attending.
Art therapy is a state registered profession. Art therapists are regulated by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). Art therapists and trainees adhere to the ‘Code of Ethics and Principles of professional practice’ (BAAT, 2019) and must meet HCPC standard of proficiency and follow the standards of conduct, performance and ethics to be able to practice. For more info go to www.baat.org and https://www.hcpc-uk.org.
What does it look like? Types of art therapy: 1:1, groups, open studios
The main ways in which art therapy can be held are 1:1 sessions, group work and open studios; with subsections for ways of working within groups. Each way of working will depend upon the needs of the client and the setting. 1:1 sessions are individual private sessions between client and therapist which usually last for 50 minutes; and held weekly at the same time and place. The open studio’s approach is an informal non structured group style, where participants can come and go as they please, working on their own artwork, at their own pace, with no group discussion. Group work is more structured; taking place on a set time and day. The group may have a theme they work too; with discussions about the artwork.
Each form can be applied to an organisation, and holistic discussion is best to organise what type of sessions are best for the clients attending, if art therapy is not currently available. Or an evaluation of the current set up to see if any type can be added or modified to suit the clients needs within the organisation.
Within the sessions itself, it is the choice of the client as to how much time they spend making art or talking. There is no pressure to talk about the artwork or share thoughts or feelings. The first sessions after assessment will typically be the client getting to know the therapist and the materials available. Ideally a full good range of quality materials are provided which may include paints, pencils, crayons, pastels, clay and other modelling materials, magazines and papers for collage.
What are the benefits?
Self expression and self esteem.
Expression of feelings that may be jumbled or hard to speak about.
A space to share your “negative” emotions such as pain, anger, sadness, grief, with no judgement.
Coming to terms with physical illness.
Recognising your own growth and inner strength.
A visual record of your trauma, struggles and healing.
Coming to terms with physical illness.
Help you identify the goals you want to achieve.
The opportunity to clarify what is important to you.
Relief from pain, stress and anxiety.
Reduces depression and can help with other mental health needs.
Can increase concentration.