「藝術之間」藝術治療
ART IN BETWEEN - ART PSYCHOTHERAPY
Art
Psychology
Wellness
Throughout history, the worlds of science and the arts have often been seen as diametrically opposed. However, scientific research provides substantial evidence for the vital role of art, particularly in nurturing mental well-being. Art has proven to be a source of relief for stress, depression, and anxiety, benefitting individuals of all ages.
People of all ages have turned to painting, drawing, and various art forms as a means of expressing themselves. Art plays a significant role in enhancing mental well-being by promoting engagement and personal growth. It's essential to note that while creating art can be therapeutic, it's not a substitute for formal therapy. You can enjoy art independently, without the need for a therapeutic relationship.
Art Psychotherapy
Art psychotherapy is a mental health profession rooted in empirical evidence. It serves as a form of psychotherapy that empowers individuals to express their emotions holistically, including non-verbal methods, through a variety of artistic mediums. This approach utilizes the creative process as a means of externalizing deep thoughts and raw emotions, all without requiring advanced technical skills. The primary focus is on helping individuals communicate their inner world through their artwork.
Art psychotherapy can be conducted individually or in group sessions and involves working with a professional art therapist to explore insights and address personal challenges. Art therapists provide a safe space for individuals to process emotional difficulties that may emerge during the creative process.
At AiB, you can engage in various forms of artmaking with the guidance and support of your art therapist. Beyond traditional forms of art, such as painting, drawing, collage, and sculpture, there are various unconventional methods involving art materials. These methods can include tearing paper or working with wood in different ways. The unconventional use of various art materials serves to alleviate tension and provide sensory stimulation.
WHAT'S ART PSYCHOTHERAPY
Quote from the British Association of Art Therapists
What is it?
Art psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy, but unlike talk therapy, participants primarily use art media to express, communicate and address emotional issues. In Art psychotherapy sessions, art psychotherapists offer a safe, confidential space to make art and encourage self-expression in a relaxed and trusting relationship. Given its nature, this should be understood as a collaborative effort. It does not require participants to have artistic skills to participate, anyone can join from children up to adults.
For whom?
All age groups are welcome to join Art therapy. Art psychotherapists work with clients who might have various difficulties, disabilities or diagnoses including emotional, behavioural or mental health problems, learning or physical disabilities, life-limiting conditions, neurological conditions and physical illnesses. The participants do not need to have any artistic skill to join it.
Theories
Although influenced by psychoanalysis, art psychotherapists have been inspired by a broad range of theories and developed approaches including client-centred approaches, mentalization-based treatments, compassion-focussed and cognitive analytic therapies, and socially engaged practice, and still exploring in wider aspects.
What is an Art Therapist?
In the process of art therapy, an art therapist provides you with a safe and confidential environment, guiding and supporting you through creative expression. They help you understand the inner world reflected in your artwork, assisting you to process your emotions and thoughts, regulate your feelings, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself.
“Currently, formal training for art therapists, both domestically and internationally, is part of graduate-level programs. To become a professional art therapist, one must complete various courses, including art therapy theory and practice, psychoanalytic theory, counseling and psychotherapy, art creation, and professional ethics. Additionally, therapists are required to complete a specified number of supervised clinical hours.
Art therapists are not only familiar with creative materials and processes but also possess theoretical knowledge in clinical psychology. They can provide therapy for individuals, couples, families, or groups, and work in medical, educational, or social welfare institutions. Depending on the clients and the work environment, therapists employ different art therapy approaches, making the practice highly diverse.” - Taiwan Art Therapy Association
IT CAN BE PARTICULARLY USEFUL TO...
Art therapy offers a variety of approaches that can be helpful in situations where connecting with emotions and expressing experiences verbally can be challenging. The process of creating art can provide alternative ways of connecting and experiencing, which can be particularly useful when physical (for example: insomnia, restlessness, muscle aches) or behavioral (the way you are with others) experiences are difficult to understand or articulate. This can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle with discussing their emotions or experiences.
All art forms made in art therapy are welcomed and valued.
