Art therapy is a mental health profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative processes, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.
Art therapy is facilitated by a clinician with a master’s-level or higher degree trained in art and therapy who helps patients interpret, express, and resolve their emotions and thoughts. Art therapy uses integrative methods and engages the mind, body, and spirit in ways distinct from verbal articulation alone.
During a session, an art therapist works with clients to understand what is causing them distress. Then the art therapist guides the client to create art that addresses the cause of their issue. During a session, art therapists will:
- Describe the goal of art therapy
- Explain that clients don’t have to think of themselves as creative or artistic to benefit
- Help the client choose and use a medium, such as drawing, sculpture, collage, or painting
- Guide the client through expressing themselves through art, usually by asking questions
- Discuss the results of both the work of art and what the client felt
- Plan for another session or for the client to work on their own
Art therapists work with individuals, couples, families, and groups in diverse settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Veteran’s clinics
- Private practice
- Psychiatric and rehabilitation facilities
- Community clinics
- Crisis centers
- Forensic institutions
- Senior communities
There is growing evidence that art therapy helps conditions that relate to mood, such as anxiety and depression, trauma, low self-esteem, and similar disorders. It is also effective for people with a serious health condition, such as cancer, and for people working to develop effective coping skills, including prison inmates. Art therapy can also help people who are experiencing physical pain during hospitalization. Evidence also shows that it can be effective for post-traumatic stress disorder.
To find out more about our outpatient mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.