Let Art Bring You to New Heights…
Free Your Creativity and Soar!
Claudia Ledwith, ATR-BC, LCAT
The Uniqueness of Art Therapy
Through art therapy we can speak what we cannot say. It is a instrument for healing and communicating. Most clients need a little inspiration by word of encouragement or an array of interesting and enticing art materials. The main goals are to give them the opportunity to express themselves creatively in an engaging environment which allows them to have the freedom to exist in a supportive space without judgement and the restrictions that are encompassing their lives. The artwork’s visual and symbolic expression reveal the true human expression and their spirit beyond the conditions and struggles are encompassing their lives. As an art therapist, I find that the act of using various materials and being in an atmosphere that is free and inviting can effectively bring the client to another realm outside themselves. This reminds those in their presence that they still have a voice and just require patience, trust and understanding. Art therapy encourages people to express and reveal their emotions through artistic expression. The personal and relative treatment goals are supported by the art therapist. Through the creative process one increases coping skills which are a catalyst for healing and productive therapy.
Art Therapy Realized: Awaken the Spirit
The miracles that can happen in a session or room full of conversation, including arts materials, relatives, children, caregivers, and health professionals together are endless. Clients who were highly resistant and agitated or were uncomfortable believing that they could not draw or paint are surprising themselves and others when they show interest and gather self-confidence to take a leap in the inviting therapeutic environment. There is no right or wrong, you can fly at your own pace. Through integrative methods, art therapy engages the mind, body, and spirit in a manner that is distinct from verbal articulation alone.
Art Therapy: Clients Expand Mentally and Physically
I find that humor, acceptance, and genuine interest in my client’s life, past profession, and accomplishments albeit the illness or struggles they have, are essential. Clients can find pride and dignity in artwork they never had the self-confidence to create. Their enhanced social skills, resilience, and self-esteem are some of the results of art therapy. Cognitive and sensory-motor functioning is improved through the mind-body connection.
The art and craft materials I use to engage the client provide the wings to fly to vast social and communicative heights.
“When you walk to the edge of all the light you have and take that first step into the darkness of the unknown, you must believe one of two things will happen. There will be something solid for you to stand upon, or you will be taught how to fly.”
—Patrick Overton, Author