I often get asked how I structure an art therapy session so my client has time to work on art and talk about the therapy goals we’re working on. Every session is a little bit different. I tend to follow a similar structure to keep us on track and make the most of your time.
Getting started in an art therapy session
I usually start with a brief check-in with my clients. We talk about how their week has been, how things like work, family, or school are going, and address any issues that may have arisen since I last saw them. If my client had something specific to think about or work on after our last session, we talk about this during our first few minutes as well.
Next steps
Next, we can either continue our conversation based on what has come up during our first few minutes of session. Or we can continue to check in on goals, progress, and how the client has been doing. This is the bulk of the traditional talk therapy part of our session, and almost anything goes. If a client has something specific that they would like to address, we do so here.
Continuing the art therapy session
Then, we choose which art media the client would like to work with that day. I give clients options: paint, drawing supplies, clay work, beads, etc. Then, I make sure they have all the supplies they need during our time together. I might direct clients to work on a specific intervention or assessment. In other sessions, the client is free to choose what they want to make.
Art making in action
During the art making time, I give clients the option to listen to music. They’re welcome to pick anything that they want to listen to. While they work, we might continue to chat about what’s going on in their life. We might not talk at all. Or it could be a combination of the two. Sometimes, I will work on art while working with a client. This portion of our session is very free flowing, and can be different based on the client. While a client is working, I might ask questions about what they’re working on, the colors they choose, or help them troubleshoot anything that they’re struggling with.
Ending the art therapy session
After a client has finished their art for the day, I’ll ask them about their process. We talk about what they’ve created, what it means to them, and I ask if it’s something they would like to keep working on. If so, I can hold on to their art so that it’s ready and waiting for them at their next session.
We then wrap up our conversation, discuss any goals for the week, and check-in on scheduling. My hope is that the client feels fulfilled, relaxed, and content after each session, with a clear picture of what to work on in the time we’ll spend apart until our next session.
If you’re interested in trying an art therapy session, please feel free to reach out to me.