Art Therapy: Combining Creativity with Healing
Art Therapy is a unique approach to mental health counseling that merges traditional talk therapy with the creative processes of visual art, such as drawing, painting, or sculpting. While words can sometimes fall short in describing complex emotions like anxiety, art opens a limitless world of expression. Through creative mediums, you can convey your feelings in ways that go beyond verbal definitions, helping to illustrate how anxiety or other emotions manifest in your daily life.
There’s no need to worry about your artistic ability. In Art Therapy, the focus isn’t on creating a perfect piece of art—it’s about the process. The act of creating itself becomes a journey toward healing and self-discovery, allowing you to explore your emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
As Art Therapists, we act as guides on this journey. We provide a non-judgmental space for you to engage in honest, vulnerable work as you move toward greater mental health and wellness.
When seeking an Art Therapist, it’s essential to look for the credential “ATR” (Registered Art Therapist). This designation signifies that the therapist has completed the required Master’s-level education in Art Therapy. Whether you see ATR-P (provisional), ATR, or ATR-BC (board certified), these indicate the therapist has undergone extensive training specifically in this field. Be cautious of practitioners using art in therapy who may not have the full, specialized training—just like the slogan from the 80s, “If it doesn’t say ATR, it’s not the real thing!”