Appreciating Beautiful Art Pieces

4 Things To Know About Art Therapy

Have you heard about art therapy, but don't know much about it? If so, it will help to know the following things to clear up any misconceptions that you may have.

Who Is Art Therapy For?

Art therapy is really for anyone that is looking for an alternative form of therapy. It doesn't matter how old or young you are, because it can work for anyone. That said, art therapy may be best for younger children that may have trouble putting their thoughts into words, but are familiar with the concept of drawing pictures. Art therapy can also be great for anyone that is nervous about going to therapy. This is because art therapy is something that is more active that they can do during a session, rather than just talk the whole time.

Can Someone Not Good At Art Participate In Art Therapy? 

Some people have a misconception that you need to be good at art to attend an art therapy session. That is not true at all. Art therapy is simply a way to express yourself since you are not creating a piece of art that is going to be sold or displayed. It's meant to be an alternative way for people to express how they are feeling, or simply help fill some of the silence during a session.

How Does Art Therapy Reduce Stress?

One reason that patients enjoy art therapy is that it is a stress-reducing experience. It makes them feel like they are doing something during therapy, and can even leave the session having accomplished something tangible that they can see. Being creative and making art is also an enjoyable experience. This can shift someone's mood so that they are more positive by the time they reach the end of a therapy session, which can help bring more out of them with the therapist. 

How Does Art Therapy Help Solve Problems?

Many patients do not realize that art therapy actually helps demonstrate that they can change in small ways. If they have the strength to make small changes in something like creating art, they can make other small changes in their lives that lead to positive outcomes. This can help someone feel like they have a greater sense of control over their life by making small changes that are discussed during the session.

Curious about art therapy? Reach out to a therapist in your area that specializes in this unique form of therapy.  


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