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Art Therapy Course
Art Therapy Introduction.
Art therapy is a concept that involves personal introspection and offers the individual an opportunity to explore and discover his/her emotions and feelings. The mechanism involved, brings the individual to a point where repressed emotions are confronted in such a way, that expression is accommodated through graphic expression. It is not necessary to have an artistic skill. Rather, what is of greater significance, is that the individual is given an opportunity to reach deep down into themselves and "voice" their feelings and emotions.
It is no secret, that creativity and the artistic impulse, originates from the heart and soul of every individual. If there is pain buried in the heart of someone and their soul is wounded through neglect, molestation, frustration and trauma, the individual is caught up in vacuum and is not able to grow, feel and trust.This pain remains locked and buried in their hearts. According to the Bible, Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your affections (heart), for they influence everything else in your life". Thus one can concur, that negative memories that are suppressed, will influence how a person responds to and perceives what happens in their lives. Deeply rooted trauma creates dysfunctional behavioral patterns and ignoring to address these behaviors, will only prevent the individual from reaching their true potential.
It is of paramount importance then, that the person in pain, is brought to a point where they can confront these painful issues ……this is the very essence where art therapy can help in the healing process. Art therapy affords the individual a window through which to look into their heart and allow them an opportunity, to see what pain is buried there.
What is Art Therapy ?
Art Therapy combines visual art and psychotherapy in a creative process using the created image as a foundation for self-exploration and understanding. Thoughts and feelings often reach expression in images rather than in words. Through the use of art therapy, feelings and inner conflicts can be projected into visual form. In the creative act, conflict is re-experienced, resolved and integrated. Art therapy can be used with individuals, groups, or families as either a primary or adjunctive therapeutic mode in clinical, educational and rehabilitative settings. People of all ages can benefit from art therapy and previous art experience is unnecessary as the focus is on personal expression. Art Therapy is not only for people experiencing emotional difficulty -- it can heighten creativity and enrich life.
How did Art Therapy begin ?
Although visual expressions have been basic to humanity throughout history, Art Therapy did not emerge as a distinct profession until the 1930's. Early in the 1900's, psychiatrists became interested in the art work of patients and began to see a link between the art and the illness of their patients. At this same time, art educators were discovering that the free and spontaneous art expression of children represented both emotional and symbolic communications. Since then, the profession of Art Therapy has grown into an effective and important method of communication, assessment and treatment with many populations.
How Art Therapy works.
By providing a safe and non-threatening environment, the art therapist invites the individual to express their feelings through a variety of art media. Emphasis is placed on the individual who is encouraged to empower him / herself through the self-exploration and self-interpretation of their own art.The artwork can be spontaneous but may also be directed by the Art Therapist. Through the art process, individuals can often approach difficult issues and convey a message much clearer and safer than with words. The art product serves as a record of these events which the individual can later reflect on and eventually understand with greater clarity.
Art Therapy can help.
Using simple art materials the Art Therapist helps individuals:
* express feelings too difficult to talk about
* increase self esteem and confidence
* develop healthy coping skills
* identify feelings & blocks to emotional expression & growth
* provide an avenue of communication
* make verbal expression more accessible.
Article about Art Therapy by: Gwen Sanders