Expressive Arts Therapy is the use of drama, visual art, writing, music, movement and ritual for the purpose of self-expression and healing. What this looks like in a given therapy session varies depending on the person I’m working with, their interests and comfort levels.
For someone struggling with fear or panic, a session may include guided imagery to visualize a safe place and then creating a collage, painting or charm to reference when difficult emotions rise.
For someone who has difficulty talking about their feelings, a session may include listening to songs that resonate.
An individual navigating a life transition may benefit from creating a vision board and developing concrete action items to move toward that vision.
The possibilities are endless and the healing and growth potential is great.
“But I’m not an artist …”
I hear that a lot, actually.
My response is usually, “Great, even better!”
Expressive Arts Therapy is especially useful for those who are quick to intellectualize their emotions or who have a hyperactive inner critic (the inner voice that puts you down).
The most important thing to know is that Expressive Arts Therapy is not about creating a perfect product. It’s about expression, exploration and the process of embracing your imagination and inner wisdom in a safe and supported environment.
To read more about expressive arts therapy, check out my blog post here,The Magic is in the Mess: How the Expressive Arts Heal.
For someone struggling with fear or panic, a session may include guided imagery to visualize a safe place and then creating a collage, painting or charm to reference when difficult emotions rise.
For someone who has difficulty talking about their feelings, a session may include listening to songs that resonate.
An individual navigating a life transition may benefit from creating a vision board and developing concrete action items to move toward that vision.
The possibilities are endless and the healing and growth potential is great.
“But I’m not an artist …”
I hear that a lot, actually.
My response is usually, “Great, even better!”
Expressive Arts Therapy is especially useful for those who are quick to intellectualize their emotions or who have a hyperactive inner critic (the inner voice that puts you down).
The most important thing to know is that Expressive Arts Therapy is not about creating a perfect product. It’s about expression, exploration and the process of embracing your imagination and inner wisdom in a safe and supported environment.
To read more about expressive arts therapy, check out my blog post here,The Magic is in the Mess: How the Expressive Arts Heal.
Photo left by Emma Frances Logan / Unsplash