Art Therapy and it's Applications
by Robyn Rottinger (c) 2017

I am often asked what is Art Therapy and why haven’t we heard about it before?  Art Therapy is a psychotherapy used to encourage communication and personal knowing through a non verbal medium.  Although, the use of Art as a medium, has been used for centuries to explore meaning, it’s application can both calm and excite the senses

History and use

Though, as the American Art Therapy Association suggest, Art Therapy, whilst a relatively new field in Australia, has been around since 1940.  And of course, the greater implication of art making has been around for centuries.  The use of art making whilst in a therapeutic setting, and whilst facilitated by those with relevant qualifications, can truly change the overall well being of the group or person participating.

In an age care setting for instance, the elderly residents can often be found waiting way before class starts, regardless of their physical barriers, that to others may impede.  This show of willingness and engagement underpins the importance of our presence.

So too in a mental health institution, where participants, may at first be apprehensive to start, but later take to their creation with gusto, where words just don’t seem adequate.

Art Therapy is not about the beauty of the art or the talent of the participant.  In fact, no talent is needed and works are not judged for how they appear.  It’s the unfolding, the self-knowing and new exploration of the participants psyche for themselves, which is the true gift.
Residents appear a lot more engaged and motivated, their dexterity and cognitive function improves and they feel valued.  Whilst residents may at times feel frustrated with the limited independence, they are able to feel free once in group​

Compliments other psychotherapeutic sessions

Within a mental health setting, Art Therapy works to compliment the workings of the physician, as a means of support and expression when words just won’t suffice. We work as part of the team of professionals, that not only include physicians, but also nurses, occupational therapists, rehabilitation counsellors, socials workers, amongst so many and also alone.

Benefits and where placed

Art Therapy often has the same benefits as may be experienced by those who favour meditation.   And in some instances, meditation along with other modalities, may form part of the session.  Benefits include, the diffusing of feelings of anger, the ability to increase one’s self awareness and to enhance interpersonal skills.
 
Practitioners of Art Therapy can be found not only in aged care, or mental health institutions, but also participate in schools, shelters, correctional facilities, private practice and in residential treatment areas.
 
I hope this article has gone some way to give knowledge of not only Art Therapy’s softly, softly approach but also it’s many applications.
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