The Benefits of Art Therapy

Those who are weighed down by negative emotions but cannot express them in thoughts and words may be able to find healing in art therapy. This is a process in which a person is guided by a professional who must be well trained – both by education and by practise – in art and psychology or therapy. Even without previous artistic background or skills, a patient is encouraged to express his or her thoughts and feelings in modes of visual art. These modes are usually painting, drawing, sculpture, clay formation and photography.

Making a horse sculpture

Through these visual expressions, therapists aim to draw out the innermost feelings of patients, especially those that the patients themselves may not know exist. These negative emotions can lie buried through the years but may actually be the cause of their present distress. Common patients of art therapy are those suffering from cancer, HIV and AIDS. It is also beneficial to those who are hearing impaired or visually impaired. High school students who are undergoing adolescent emotional upheaval may also find this kind of therapy to be effective. Similarly, children who have underdeveloped physical abilities or who have social insecurity can gain a lot of skills and self-confidence through art therapy. This method is also used to help those who suffer from depression, stress, nervousness and post traumatic stress disorder.