Art therapy is a therapeutic approach that helps people to use their self-expression and creativity to improve their mental, physical, and emotional health.

It is interesting to note that for many years, people have leveraged the power of art to help themselves communicate, and heal. And art therapy became formally recognized as a therapy program in the 1940s.

With art therapy, patients can use the creative process to find self-expression and develop new ways that will help them learn new coping skills to manage their mental health symptoms.

While the patient appreciates or creates art, they will healthily explore their emotions, manage stress, improve their self-esteem, and learn more social skills.

Some of the techniques that are proven to be effective in art therapy are painting, collage, coloring, sculpting, drawing, doodling, scribbling, etc. When it comes to art therapy, one of the common misconceptions is that you have to be artistic or you need to have some special talents.

However, if you want to participate in art therapy, you don’t need to have any artistic ability. Everyone can benefit from it irrespective of their skill sets or abilities.

What makes it more interesting is that art therapy can be effective for everyone ranging from both old to young. Another misconception is that art therapy is the same as an art class.

An art class focuses on teaching students techniques that will help them arrive at a finished product. While art therapy helps patients focus on their experience by exploring their imagination, perception, and feelings.

Art therapy can take place in the following places: Art studios, group homes, hospitals, residential treatment centers, wellness centers, correctional facilities, colleges, universities, etc.

If you think that art therapy would be effective for you or someone you know, consider seeing a trained professional. If someone is qualified in art therapy, they should have a verifiable degree in psychotherapy, and they should be licensed with the required therapy body.

You should also find out about their specialty because some art therapists may have experience working with clients who suffered from substance abuse.