Artistic Creation as Therapy

Many psychologists believe that allowing patients to express themselves through art will result in a stronger and more rehabilitated therapy than traditional methods. By allowing the patient to tap their creative mind, they are often freeing that person from the problems they are experiencing. Art therapy has become a commonly accepted method of psychological rehabilitation for children, teens and adults. The therapy usually involves the creation of some sort of visual art, including but not limited to photography, clay modeling, sketching and painting. Licensed therapists who use these methods have been trained to look for keys or indicators in their patient’s expression. Often, even if the patient never meant to express a problem or a specific feeling in the art, it will come through in small ways that the therapist can then interpret. This gives the professional a better picture of what the patient is struggling with and how to proceed in treatment. The therapy also gives the patient a sense of release as they can put their emotions into their work.

 

Sometimes, a therapist uses a certain method of art therapy if they feel it is needed. There are several specific methods used. These are: House-Tree-Person (the patient is asked to draw these three items, and the professional uses the drawing to ask pointed questions about the drawing to get a better interpretation of the patient’s issues), Diagnostic Drawing (commonly used for major psychological disorders, this involves the patient using colored chalks to draw certain items, and then the professional interprets the drawing based on colors and design choices), and Mandala Assessment Research Project (the patient is asked to draw a design from a card in the color of their choice. The patient is then asked to explain any meaning behind their color choice and their overall design). These are only a few of the types of art therapy that a professional may choose to use. The decision on type of therapy is made by the professional and is only one part of the patient’s therapy sessions.

 

     Professionals who use art therapy are board certified as a psychologist as well as a licensed art therapist. There are many different types of therapy available for professionals to utilize, but art therapy has proven to be quite valuable and successful.