What is art therapy? It is psychotherapy with the added component of art. We think differently when we create and can come up with new ideas, insights and a deeper understanding. Art making can have a meditative quality to it and can help us focus and stay in the moment.
Do I need to be an artist to try art therapy? No! It is not about the product, it is about the process. Really!
Why would I choose art therapy over talk therapy? You don’t really have to choose between these two. In my practice we can do either or both. Art making is just an additional means of communication. Some complex things like relationships, feelings, dreams, families, and work situations are just hard to find the words for. Creating art can help with finding words.
What materials do you use? Basic art supplies like markers, colored pencils, pastels, water color paints, paper, air dry clay and collage. Nothing fancy. Again, it is about the process, not the product.
Have more questions? Want more information?
- American Art Therapy Association
- Here is a link to an article about my work (several jobs ago!) using art therapy with older adults.
- Here is a video I made about that work with older adults.
- Here is a link to an article I wrote about art therapy with older African American adults.
carol.martin.johnson@gmail.com
267-608-5354
Contact Form