Art Therapy

How it works:
Art therapy uses creative expression — such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage — as a way to explore thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. It’s not about artistic skill or making “good” art, but about the process of creating. Through art, you can safely express feelings, uncover insights, and work through experiences in a way that feels both gentle and empowering.

In practice:
Your art therapist will guide you in using different art materials and techniques to explore emotions, memories, or challenges. Sometimes the artwork becomes the starting point for conversation, while other times the act of creating itself is the therapy. You’ll always have choice and control over what you make and how much you wish to share. No prior art experience is needed — the focus is on self-expression, not performance.

The principles behind art therapy:
This approach blends creativity with therapeutic support, guided by a few key principles.

• Expression: Art offers a safe outlet for feelings that might be too complex, painful, or overwhelming to verbalize.
• Symbolism: The images and symbols that appear in your work can reveal deeper layers of meaning and open paths to healing.
• Play and experimentation: The creative process encourages curiosity, flexibility, and freedom — making space for growth and resilience.
• Choice and agency: You decide what materials to use, what to create, and what to share, ensuring the process feels safe and personal.
• Integration: Art can help connect mind, body, and emotions, fostering self-awareness and balance.

Why it helps:
Art therapy gives shape to emotions that may otherwise feel stuck or unexpressed. The creative process can reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and build self-understanding. It provides distance and perspective, helping you see your experiences in new ways without needing to relive them in detail. Over time, this can enhance coping skills, self-esteem, and a renewed sense of connection to yourself.

Who it’s for:
Art therapy can benefit anyone, regardless of age or artistic background. It’s especially helpful for people who struggle to express themselves verbally, who feel disconnected from their emotions, or who carry unprocessed grief, trauma, or stress. Whether used on its own or alongside other forms of therapy, art therapy offers a creative and compassionate pathway to healing.

Would you like me to also make a side-by-side comparison between trauma-informed therapy and art therapy, so it’s easy to see how they overlap and differ?