Art Therapy For Counseling

February 14, 2013
by James Nolan

Art therapy is a form of counseling that introduces art as a coping mechanism and a healing tool, while giving the therapist a better impression of the patient and his needs. An art therapist educated in both arts and psychology can interpret feelings and possible traumatic events through different forms of testing and observation. Art therapy sessions are held in therapist offices, as well as non-traditional venues such as schools or galleries.

The art created by individuals in a session is used in different ways, depending on the person\’s type of therapy and his goals. A therapist can ask a patient to paint or draw something specific, or assign a project that allows the patient to convey his feelings visually so the therapist can then interpret and assess the material. This allows a therapist to study the progress of the patient throughout therapy and it allows the individual to practice non-verbal expression.

Art therapy works well with many kids. It is practiced by some marriage and family counselors who need a better way to interact with kids. Art is also known to help with kids that have concerns with hyperactivity and other learning disorders. It is practiced in special education classes to help kids overcome finding out handicaps, tension and social concerns.

The exercises done in art therapy sessions allow people with stress and anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses to discover ways to handle showing and picturing their goals. Many people with eating ailments are additionally introduced to art therapy because it allows them to learn to imagine how they see themselves and adjust their ideas to help them accept that they have a condition.

Art therapy integrates art making and counseling to help patients survive the healing process and achieve their goals. This kind of therapy is made use of in lots of environments with a broad range of patients and it is highly successful in circumstances where additional coping skills are essential for a patient\’s advancement.

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