Julie Casey, MSW, RSW, DSW, AAT, CAPT & Heather Scott, BA (Hons), MSW, RSW
Therapeutic Art
Therapeutic art combines traditional verbal approaches to psychotherapy, the knowledge and understanding of human development with visual arts. This provides a creative process in helping people improve their mental health and wellness. Art within therapy can use art diverse media including paint, clay, pencils, markers, or other art supplies to express unspoken or unconscious concerns, deal with emotional conflicts, increase self-awareness, cope with life difficulties and reduce stress. The image is valued for what it communicates rather than for what it looks like and no artistic skills are required. The meaning of the artworks is discussed collaboratively to process emotions and gain new insights. This process helps people move through difficult life experiences, discuss or analyze their own story, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and achieve their goals.