Is art therapy right for you?
There are many different approaches to mental health counseling, including art therapy. This type of therapy is a unique and creative approach. It utilizes art-making alongside traditional talk therapy in order to meet therapeutic goals. Traditional art-making skills are not necessary in order to engage in art therapy. However, this approach may not be the best fit for every client. It is important to explore individual interests and preferences to understand whether art therapy is right for you.
If you are wondering whether art therapy is a good fit for you, here are some things to consider:
Am I interested in art making?
If you’re already making art at home you may find a good connection with an art therapist. By using what you already know about art, you may find it easier to naturally connect to the expression of your own emotions in a creative way.
Do I have a creative mind?
When you think about art, what comes to mind? Do you feel connected to paintings, drawings, or photographs? If you like to think abstractly, this type of therapy may be for you. Also, if you are connected to your senses and are a great visualizer, you may find it helpful to use a creative process to work through mental health challenges. Additionally, if working visually helps you solve other problems, then you may find success in strategizing your solution to emotional challenges through art making.
Do I struggle with opening up about my emotions?
If you haven’t quite mastered the skill of talking about your emotions with others, then you may benefit from art therapy. Art therapy allows your emotions to come through in your art. An art therapist can help you decipher your feelings based on what you create. This includes the colors and textures you use and the evolution of your creative process over time. Through this process, you’ll also learn to identify and express your feelings through words.
Am I hesitant about trying traditional talk therapy?
If telling someone all of the intricate details of your life makes you nervous, art therapy may be a good opportunity for you to connect with a professional in a less intimidating way. When presented with a project or intervention, it can feel easier to open up about what’s on your mind while you work, rather than feeling like you are in the spotlight of conversation.
If any of these sound like you, you may benefit from working on your therapy goals with an art therapist. It will help you take a deeper dive into your own thoughts and feelings and develop your own interests and self-identity.
For more information on our therapist, Sam Nolan, click here.
Image by Freepik