What is Art Therapy and how does it work?
Art Therapy provides a gentle and natural approach to healing and works across a variety of health contexts. Art therapy is a creative process that involves listening, intuition, creative expression and reflection.
As human beings we are not always able to verbalise what is happening to us, or express how we are feeling, this is especially true when we are stressed. Alternatively we may over verbalise, to hide our feelings and thoughts which need expression. Art therapy provides a safe a nurturing space in which to explore both verbally and non-verbally all the dimensions of your life experience that has bought you to this point. This creative process helps you to reflect on your inner and outer worlds in order to find meaning and understanding.
An experienced art therapist, Amanda guides you through this process, actively listening and intuiting ways to engage you in self-expression through art. You choose whatever medium you feel comfortable working with, which may include drawing, painting, clay-work, collage etc. Creative expression is followed by a time of reflection and sometimes discussion where you and Amanda work together to understand your artwork. The meaning of the artwork lies solely with you and is revealed through your own discovery. Amanda will not interpret your artwork but may ask you some questions that could help you derive greater meaning from your artwork. Often as a result you will develop greater insight and awareness of your self and your individual needs and abilities.
Each session is confidential and provides a record of your internal processing. Over time patterns of feelings, thoughts and behaviours may be revealed in the artwork, helping you to develop a more integrated sense of self, increased self awareness, understanding and acceptance.
Art therapy helps to initiate positive changes in your life, to integrate and find meaning in your experiences, and to create a positive new self image and inner dialogue.
For more information about art therapy go to Resources and check out the links.
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Do I need to be good at art?
No prior art experience is necessary as the emphasis is on the ‘process’ as opposed to the ‘end product’. Clients often say “but I was never good at art at school” or “I don’t have a creative bone in my body”. Amanda will help you to suspend the ‘inner critic’ and adopt an attitude of ‘play’ as opposed to ‘performance’.
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What are the benefits?
Some of the benefits include:
