FAQs
Do I have to be an artist to do art therapy?
Nope! There is no need for previous artistic experience to engage in art therapy. All folks can benefit from art therapy and every therapy session is geared toward the individual’s needs and goals.
What exactly is an art therapist?
Art therapists are credentialed mental health professionals. They are trained in a broad range of psychological theory and ways to use art media and creative processes to help people cope with mental health challenges. Art therapists hold Masters-level or higher degrees. When seeking an art therapist, look for the credentials ATR-BC (board-certified registered art therapist).
Do I have to make art in therapy sessions?
Nope! Therapy sessions are collaborative valuing the client’s autonomy and self-direction. Art making is offered as an invitation that you can say “yay” or “nay” to. Some clients use art exploration as a helpful addition to verbal processing.
Will my art therapist share my art?
The content of therapy sessions, including artwork created and discussed, are confidential and protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Privacy and confidentiality will be discussed prior to treatment.
Definition of Art Therapy
Art Therapy is an integrative mental health and human services profession that enriches the lives of individuals, families, and communities through active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship. Art Therapy, facilitated by a professional art therapist, effectively supports personal and relational treatment goals as well as community concerns.
Art Therapy is used to improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change.
Creative Art Therapists are master-level, licensed clinicians guided by ethical standards and a wide scope of practice.
Art Therapy utilizes creative making to safely explore and externalize difficult or overwhelming emotions. When words fall short or when feelings feel too big, the use of art making allows space for expression and containment.
Examples of art materials used in sessions include: colored pencils, markers, crayons, collage materials, watercolors, and clay.
