“Creating artwork allows your mind to be in a safe place while it contemplates the tougher issues you are dealing with. One can use the tools of brush, paint, pastels, crayons etc to expose and even for a short time color those issues in a different light.”

— George E. Miller

Art Psychotherapy or Art Therapy (the titles are interchangeable) is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of communication and it is practiced by qualified Art Therapists and Art Psychotherapists.

Clients do not require previous experience or skill in art. The Art Psychotherapist is not concerned with making a judgement or diagnostic assessment of the client’s image. The overall aim of its practitioners is to enable a client to effect change and growth on a personal level through the use of art materials in a safe and facilitating environment.

Art Psychotherapy differs from other psychological therapies in that it is a three way process between the client, the therapist and the image. Thus it offers a different opportunity for expression and communication and can be particularly helpful for people who find it hard to express their thoughts and feelings verbally. Creativity is the primary focus of art therapy and it can help us to access the sometimes hidden information and emotions within ourselves, re-creating them in the visual, tangible form of the artwork. The art therapist then works with the client to explore their art making process and product to reach their own personal understanding and insight. This process can enable you to have a better understanding and meaning of what you are experiencing which in turn, can lead to alleviating difficult and painful feelings, emotional reparation and transformation.

In an Art Psychotherapy session, the client is provided with various art media such as paint, clay, collage and other materials to help them to express and explore their emotions, develop insight and make sense of difficult life experiences. The art therapist holds a safe, confidential setting, and works in a non-judgemental way. The sessions are generally non-directive and client-led, though therapists may offer themes or directives. Art psychotherapy is not an art class nor is its purpose recreational, though sessions can be enjoyable.

Art Therapy can promote the healing process of people with all types of physical and mental health issues and disabilities. It can help with emotional, developmental and behavioural issues, bereavement and loss, trauma, stress and anxiety, depression, personal growth and times of change, different diagnosises and conditions, abuse, social issues and skills, confidence and self esteem.

Our Art Psychotherapy service is provided for Adults, Teenagers, Children in one to one or group sessions

If you would like to find out more about Art Psychotherapy or to make an appointment, please contact Rebecca O’Connor or Pia Lück.