Benefits of Art Therapy When You’re Not “Good” at Art
Art therapy utilizes a variety of art materials and creative processes to promote self-expression, exploration, and healing. People who are new to art therapy might be hesitant and make comments like, “Oh, I can’t draw.” It’s important to know that it’s not about creating “good” art. Instead, benefits of art therapy are related to the process of using art materials and emotionally meaningful visual communication.
If you’re unsure that you can benefit from art therapy or worried you’re not skilled enough, consider these reasons to give it a try.
Benefits of Art Therapy
Non-judgmental approach: Your goal isn’t to create masterpieces or showcase artistic talent. The focus is the artmaking process – why you make decisions about what and how you create the artwork, and feelings that come up for you. The art therapist will support you without evaluating your artistic skills, in addition to guiding you with materials and techniques.
Self-expression: Art provides a unique way to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences that may be difficult to put into words. Like the sense of relief after a good cry, art therapy can be an emotional release. Self-expression in all its forms can promote wellbeing.
Therapeutic benefits: An art therapist will guide the process based on both your individual needs and therapy goals. They can help you gain insight, reduce stress, explore and resolve emotional issues, and find meaning in your struggles.
Focus on the process: Art therapy places emphasis on the creative process rather than the final product. The act of creating art can be meditative and allows you to be present in the moment. It can be relaxing, and it can even be fun and joyful. Although it’s not the point of art therapy, you might learn to appreciate your art, both for its visual qualities and its meaning.
Supportive guidance: A trained art therapist will provide a safe and confidential space to create and discuss how your art relates to the reasons you’re in therapy. They’ll help you explore art materials and processes, regardless of skill level. The art therapist can provide instruction to use unfamiliar materials, as well as learn techniques. They can also offer structure, suggesting topics and materials, to ease feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about how to start.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the purpose of art therapy is not to create something visually appealing, but you might surprise yourself. The focus is on personal growth, self-reflection, and emotional healing. Don’t let doubts about your artistic skills prevent you from trying art therapy. Overall, its many unique benefits can help you accomplish your goals for therapy and improve wellbeing.
If you’re ready to try art therapy, you can schedule a consult, first session, or contact Lee Ann here. Prism Art Therapy offers therapy for people with chronic illness, body image issues, disordered eating, women with ADHD and those who are experiencing grief and loss.