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It is
possible to use art-making as a means of self-discovery. You
can
de-stress and re-engage with life experiences in a
creative and stimulating way. Many of us have trouble
finding words that will express painful or difficult
thoughts and feelings. For children, adolescents and adults,
art therapy can be used to gain insight and contain,
clarify, and put into externalized form, concerns and
challenges such as:
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Self-esteem,
self-validation and self-awareness.
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Discharge of angry,
fearful or unpleasant feelings.
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Depression and/or
anxiety.
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Grief, bereavement and
loss issues.
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Trauma and life
stresses, PTSD.
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Resolve major
conflicts.
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Body image/
self-image.
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Cognitive
impairment/reframing.
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Developmental
disabilities or delays.
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Coping with serious
illnesses and chronic pain.
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Addiction.
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Impulsivity, AD/HD.
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Find a sense of
well-being and sensory enjoyment.
Prior experience or
skills in art-making are not required to engage in art
therapy, which is about self-exploration and healing through
learning how to find the metaphorical, visual and verbal
associations contained in your artwork. It is not about
making "good art." Using imaginative expression and a wide
range of art materials, viewing and experiencing the art, it
is possible to be guided through its creation and reviewing in a safe and non-judgmental environment. |
