What is art therapy and how does it work?

Art therapy is an expressive therapy that uses creative techniques like coloring, painting, sculpting, drawing, or collage to improve a person's physical emotional, and mental well-being. According to the American Art Therapy Association, professional art therapists know how texture, color, and various media can facilitate the therapeutic process by unveiling a person's feelings, thoughts, and overall disposition.

The act of creation enables one to explore their sensory, kinesthetic, symbolic, and perceptual opportunities to communicate their inner challenges. The artwork can serve as a springboard that reawakes memories and tell stories that may reveal beliefs and messages from the unconscious mind. Art therapy allows people to identify conflicts or patterns that may be affecting their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts.


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