What is art therapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of expression and communication.

Within this context, art is not used as diagnostic tool but as a medium to address emotional issues which may be confusing and distressing.

Art therapists create a therapeutic relationship in which their clients feels safe enough to express subconscious thoughts and feelings through the medium of art. Although the therapist can’t change what has happened to someone, they can help a person understand why they feel or behave in a certain way.

The medium of art, therefore, provides a means for a person to communicate and explore complex thoughts and feelings which they might not be able to express through words alone.

Once a person understands why they feel or behave in a certain way the therapist can work with the client and if they are a child their parents and school to think about ways to manage their behavioural, emotional or mental health difficulties.