What is Creative Arts Therapy?
Creative arts therapy can be a complementary component of traditional talk-therapy which adds the creativity of individual self-expression. It is a therapeutic tool which uses art-making to assist in understanding, uncovering, and expressing aspects of one’s self which may not always be at the forefront of treatment. When emotions are intense, uncomfortable, overwhelming, or distressing, the act of art-making combined with the therapeutic setting, offers a unique opportunity to journey towards healing.
Art-making can be created in a variety of ways. Creative arts therapy can be woven into the therapy session through the use of visual arts, drama, movement, music, writing, sand-tray and more. The benefits are found in both reflecting on the finished piece as well as in the process of art-making itself.
Creative Arts Therapy for trauma
Trauma can often be stored at the perceptual level with flashbacks, dreams, and thoughts we cannot shake off. It also lives in the body through emotions, physical sensations, and even chronic pain. For some, it also impacts spirituality and the sense of purpose. Incorporating art-making in therapy sessions can help individuals express and explore these aspects, particularly when putting these experiences into words are difficult. If trauma has occurred during the early stages of life, before language has developed enough to help make sense of it all, creative arts therapy can be an avenue to help reveal unexpressed emotions and help in the healing process.
Is Creative Arts Therapy for me?
In children, creative arts therapy can be an easier, more playful path for entering the therapeutic space and working through challenges, especially when talking is difficult. There are times when creative arts therapy can be developmentally more appropriate for a child compared to traditional talk-therapy. Children can gain symbolic control over scary, confusing, and unchangeable events and begin to restore a sense of safety and mastery.
In adults, creative arts therapy can assist in healing and managing emotions through immersing oneself in the creative process. Adults can create meaning of past traumas or difficult experiences. The process of art-making gives a safer avenue to master uncomfortable feelings that manifest themselves in symptoms of anxiety, depression, distress, grief or pain.
Through creative arts therapy, adults and children alike, are able to deepen their therapeutic journey, increase their self-awareness, and process difficult experiences. Art is an invitation to dialogue with one’s inner world; enhancing one’s sense of self, balance, and well-being. Creative arts therapy is one of the many treatment methods offered at Cerulean Willow Mental Health Counseling. Sessions are offered to children, adolescents, and adults both in-person and remotely. For more information, please visit our contact page.