What is art therapy and how can it help me?

Art therapy is used with individuals of all ages to promote mental and emotional health and improve physical well being by using the creative process.  It is a mental health profession based on the use of the creative process to resolve behavior issues, increase self esteem and self awareness and develop insight, self expression, and interpersonal skills.  Through the creative process, individuals become more aware of stress, coping skills, strengths and abilities.  Many people also enjoy the process of creating art.   

Art therapy allows the individual to process information and express feelings and thoughts that they do not have the language for or have difficulty finding the right words.  When words are not enough in expressing what is happening or what has happened in life. 

A relatively new field, art therapy emerged as a profession in the 1940's.  Art therapists are masters level professionals, each state has different licensing and credential requirements.  Therapists are trained in  therapy and art.  They use art therapy assessment and treatments can be used with individuals, couples, families and groups.   It can be used to process trauma, build teams, increase self esteem, decrease stress and anxiety, develop relationship skills, and many other mental and emotional issues through the use of drawing, sculpting, painting, weaving, fiber arts, collage and other techniques.  

Art therapists can be found in schools, clinics, hospitals, wellness centers, businesses and private practice.  For additional information visit the AATA website  http://www.americanarttherapyassociation.org