Art therapy is becoming an increasingly common way for clients at
rehabilitation centres to express feelings, communicate personal trials
and tribulations and allow one to further uncover one’s true self
As the concept of art therapy develops, its proven effectiveness is
demonstrated time and time again in treatment facilities
Art therapy is a melding of traditional art practices and theories
of psychotherapy for alleviating stress and sharing feelings through the creation of images.
Regardless of personal feelings about artwork, artists or what makes a piece
of art effective, art therapy is an incredibly popular and effective
Using mediums such as paint and clay or processes
like drawing or sculpting can help individuals
communicate feelings, express emotions and
promote quiet, careful introspection.
Using art therapy to become in touch with one’s
feelings regarding the process and what path may
have lead one to such a place in life can work wonders in uncovering
and unveiling emotions and clearing the path to recovery.
Art therapy can pave the way to clean living and a happy, healthy life long
Possibly the most common form of creation in art therapy is painting, a universal
art form practised all over the world. Painting
is often favoured in art therapy for its use
of broad, bold colours.
Accordingly, there are many different paints
that can be adapted to show a wide range
of emotion.
Acrylic and Oil paints can be used to show bright colours and express many different feelings and thoughts, allowing for a spectrum of images and messages.
Water colours are often
used for the soft, serene feelings such
muted hues can convey.
Whether the creative process
triggers feelings of sadness, anxiety or
anger, painting can be a cathartic way to reveal these sentiments.