Alpharetta, GA
Art Therapy – Therapy and Counseling in Alpharetta
Are you feeling stuck in your healing process? Do you often struggle to find the words to describe how you are feeling? Do you want to learn new ways to solve problems, manage stress, express and explore emotions, improve self-esteem, and learn new relaxation techniques?
Then Art Therapy might be right for you.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy, sometimes called creative arts therapy or expressive arts therapy, is the deliberate use of art-making, photography, journaling, music, movement or poetry to address psychological and emotional needs. Art Therapy encourages people to communicate and understand emotions through artistic expression and through the creative experience. It is an integrative therapy combining traditional psychotherapeutic theories and techniques with an understanding of the psychological aspects of the creative process, especially the affective properties of different art materials. Art can safely give a visual voice to emotions, thoughts and memories when words are insufficient.
What Does an Art Therapist Do?
Art therapists are trained in both therapy and art, having studied psychology and human development, and have received a Master’s Degree. Art therapists are trained to pick up on nonverbal symbols and metaphors that are often subconsciously expressed through art and the creative process, concepts that are usually difficult to express with words. They have a deep understanding of various art modalities and know how to tailor the experience to the individual’s unique needs and personal goals. Art therapists use art media, and often the verbal processing of produced imagery, to help people resolve conflicts and problems and achieve insight.
Who Can Use Art Therapy?
Anyone! You don’t need to be talented or an artist to receive the benefits. Art Therapy can provide mental health treatment for clients of all ages and abilities who have experienced trauma, grief & loss, depression, major life change, chronic illness, addiction, and anxiety.
Remember – art therapy, unlike art class, is about the process, not just the product. There is no grade, no judgement, no good or bad. You just need to be open to the experience. As children, we were all creative beings – whether through imaginative play, art making in class, dancing, playing in the dirt, or writing in our journals. Artistic development is universal, much like language, but for many people, this development tapers off around ages 10-12 when peer and adult influence is strong and ability matters. Who says that only professional artists should be allowed to use art materials?
At Thriveworks Alpharetta, our art therapist can help you rediscover your creative voice in a safe and comfortable environment. Whether used on its own, or in conjunction with traditional therapy, art therapy can provide new insight on your journey towards wellness. Contact us today at (770)-284-9252 to make an appointment.
“Often the hands will solve a mystery that the intellect has struggled with in vain.” Carl Jung
